Grilled Cheese Recipe
Make Grilled Cheese Recipe in just 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Sandwich
Method
Sandwich
- 1
Prepare bread and cheese
Grate or thinly slice the sharp cheddar and Gruyère (if using). Measure about 1.5 cups cheddar and 1/2 cup Gruyère; you want enough to give a thick, melty interior without overflowing.
- 2
Butter and spread
Soften the unsalted butter at room temperature (or microwave for 5–7 seconds if needed). Evenly spread about 1 tablespoon of butter on one side of each bread slice. If using mayonnaise instead of butter on one side, spread 1 teaspoon of mayo on the outside-facing side for extra crispness. On the inside-facing side of one slice, spread the Dijon mustard evenly (optional).
- 3
Assemble
Place one slice of bread butter-side down in a cool skillet or on a clean work surface. Top the bread with the grated cheeses, distributing evenly to cover the slice but keeping about 1/4-inch border to help prevent leaks. Sprinkle the fresh ground black pepper and a light pinch (about 1/8 tsp) of sea salt over the cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
- 4
Cook low and slow
Heat a nonstick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet over low–medium-low heat (around 275–300°F if using an infrared thermometer). Place the sandwich in the cold skillet and then turn heat to low–medium. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side, pressing gently with a spatula occasionally to compact the sandwich and encourage even melting. Watch the edge for browning; it should become golden but not dark brown.
- 5
Flip and finish
Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula. Cook the second side for 2.5–4 minutes more, pressing gently. If the bread is browning before the cheese melts, reduce heat and cover the skillet with a lid for 1–2 minutes to trap heat and speed melting. If the cheese is melted and bread is not as brown as desired, remove the lid and increase heat by a notch for the last 30–60 seconds while watching closely.
- 6
Rest and slice
Transfer the sandwich to a cutting board and let rest for 1 minute to allow the cheese to settle (this helps prevent excessive oozing). Slice in half on the diagonal for best presentation.
- 7
Serve
Serve immediately while hot and melty. Optionally serve with tomato soup, pickles, or a simple green salad.