Here’s a recipe for a classic grilled cheese sandwich, including step-by-step instructions and tips to get that perfect golden crunch and melty center.
🧀 Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
🕒 Total Time: 15 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 1 sandwich (scale as needed)
🧾 Ingredients:
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2 slices of bread
White bread, sourdough, brioche, or whole wheat — your choice. -
2–3 slices of cheese (or about 1/3 to 1/2 cup grated)
Good options: cheddar, American, Swiss, mozzarella, provolone, Gruyère. -
1.5–2 tablespoons of butter (softened)
Unsalted or salted — up to your preference.
🔁 Optional Add-ins:
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Tomato slices, caramelized onions, cooked bacon, ham, pickles, mustard, or herbs.
🍳 Tools:
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Nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan
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Spatula
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Butter knife or pastry brush
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(Optional) Lid or heavy pan for pressing
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Bread & Cheese
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Lay out your bread slices on a clean surface.
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Butter one side of each slice generously. Make sure the butter covers the full surface to get that golden crust.
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Flip the slices over (butter-side down).
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Place the cheese on the unbuttered side of one slice. If using grated cheese, spread it evenly.
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Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
💡 Tip: Mix cheeses for flavor (e.g., sharp cheddar + mozzarella = melt + tang).
Step 2: Heat the Pan
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Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Don’t rush this — high heat can burn the bread before the cheese melts.
Step 3: Grill the Sandwich
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Place the sandwich in the skillet. No need for oil — the butter does the job.
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Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side, pressing lightly with a spatula.
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Peek underneath — it should be golden brown.
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Flip carefully.
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Cook the second side for another 2.5–3 minutes, pressing gently again.
🔥 Want extra melty cheese? Cover the pan with a lid for part of the cooking time to trap heat.
Step 4: Serve
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Remove from pan and let sit for 1–2 minutes (this helps avoid burns and lets cheese settle).
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Slice diagonally or down the middle.
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Serve hot with soup (like tomato), salad, or just by itself.
✅ Pro Tips:
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Bread too thick? It can stop the cheese from melting. Use medium thickness.
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Too much cheese? Believe it or not, it’s possible. Overfilling can cause it to ooze and burn.
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No butter? Use mayo on the outside. It spreads easier and crisps well too!