The Big Cheese Box Recipe

Butter and spread

Soften 4 tbs butter to room temperature if not already soft. In a small bowl combine the softened butter with garlic powder (if using) and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Spread about 1/2 tbs of the seasoned butter onto one side of each bread slice (8 slices total). On the other side of 4 slices spread 1 tsp mayonnaise and 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard each (adjust mustard to taste).

Assemble cheese stacks

On the unbuttered side of the 4 bread slices (the side with mayo/mustard), layer 1 slice sharp cheddar and 1 slice Gruyère per sandwich (2 slices cheese per sandwich). If using optional add-ins, add tomato slices, caramelized onions, or bacon on top of the cheese layer now. Top each with the remaining bread slice, buttered side facing out.

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low to medium heat. Add 1 tbs unsalted butter and allow it to melt and coat the pan.

Place 2 assembled sandwiches in the skillet, buttered sides down. Add the remaining 1 tbs butter to the pan if needed and spread with a spatula so butter contacts both sandwiches.

Cook for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Flip the sandwiches carefully with a spatula, press down gently with the spatula or a spatula-weight, and cook another 3–4 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. If the bread is browning too fast before the cheese melts, reduce heat to low and cover the pan briefly (1–2 minutes) to help melting.

Remove cooked sandwiches to a cutting board, let rest 1 minute to set, then halve diagonally. Repeat with remaining 2 sandwiches.

Place 4 sandwich halves (or 8 halves) into the box so you have 4 whole sandwiches neatly arranged. Add a small container of dill pickle spears (2 spears per sandwich) and a portion of mixed baby greens dressed lightly with the simple vinaigrette (about 1 cup greens and 1 tbs vinaigrette per sandwich).

Include optional condiments (extra mustard, ketchup or hot sauce) in small containers if requested. If sending for delivery, pack sandwiches tightly to minimize shifting and include napkins.