Three Cheese Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Sandwich

1. 1

   Prepare bread and butter

   Bring butter to room temperature so it's easily spreadable. If using, stir the mayonnaise with a pinch of black pepper and the smoked paprika in a small bowl and set aside.

2. 2

   Assemble sandwiches

   Lay out 4 slices of bread. On each slice place 1 slice of pepper jack, 1 slice of cheddar, and 1/2 slice of American (or fold a full slice in half) so each sandwich will have three cheeses layered: pepper jack + cheddar + American. If you prefer a milder inside edge, place American between cheddar and pepper jack. Spread a thin layer (about 1/2 tsp) of the peppered mayo on the interior of the top slice if using. Top each with the remaining slice of bread, pressing gently to compact the stack.

3. 3

   Butter the outsides

   Spread about 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly on the outside face of each bread slice (both top and bottom) so each sandwich has roughly 2 tablespoons total butter. The butter should reach the edges for even browning.

4. 4

   Preheat pan

   Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-low to medium heat. The lower temperature lets the cheeses melt fully before the bread over-browns.

5. 5

   Grill the sandwiches

   Place sandwiches in the skillet, buttered-side down. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes without pressing, until the bottom is golden brown. Sprinkle a light pinch (about 1/8 tsp per sandwich) of freshly ground black pepper onto the exposed top slice if you didn't use peppered mayo. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook the second side another 3 to 4 minutes, reducing heat slightly if the bread browns too fast. Cover the pan with a lid for the last 1–2 minutes to trap heat and help cheeses melt evenly.

6. 6

   Check for doneness

   Remove one sandwich and gently press to see if cheeses are soft and gooey; if the center still feels firm, return to the pan for 30–60 seconds more with the lid on. Total cook time per sandwich should be about 6–8 minutes depending on stove and pan.

7. 7

   Rest and serve

   Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board and let rest 1 minute to set. Slice each sandwich in half on the diagonal and serve immediately while cheesy and hot.