White Cheddar Or Swiss Recipe

Choose cheese: if using both, layer one type first (for example, Swiss on bottom, white cheddar on top) for a balanced flavor. If using only one, use 6 oz of your chosen cheese sliced or shredded into even pieces to ensure even melting.

Soften butter to room temperature so it spreads easily. Mix the softened butter with garlic powder (if using) and 1/4 teaspoon of the black pepper until combined. In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard and mayonnaise (if using) together and set aside.

Butter and spread

Spread about 1 teaspoon of the garlic butter mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice (this will be the exterior that contacts the pan). On the non-buttered side of four slices, spread about 1/2 teaspoon of the Dijon-mayo mixture.

Layer cheese and add-ins

On the four slices with the Dijon-mayo, distribute the cheese evenly: about 1.5 oz (approx. 3 tablespoons shredded or 3 slices) per sandwich half. Add any optional add-ins now (a few tomato slices, a quarter cup of caramelized onions, 1 slice of bacon broken into pieces, or a handful of greens). Sprinkle remaining 3/4 teaspoon black pepper evenly across the cheese layers.

Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out. Press gently to compact the sandwiches slightly so cheese and add-ins hold together.

Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-low to medium heat. Allow it to warm for 2 minutes so heat distributes evenly.

Place sandwiches in the skillet (do not overcrowd; cook in batches if needed). Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side, checking occasionally. When the first side is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt, carefully flip using a spatula. If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, reduce heat to low and cover the pan with a lid for 1–2 minutes to trap heat and encourage melting.

Cook the second side another 3–4 minutes until golden brown and cheese is fully melted (internal temperature of cheese should be warm and gooey). If you used thicker bread or lots of add-ins, cook a bit longer on low heat with the lid on.

If you prefer an oven finish for perfectly even melting, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). After browning both sides in the skillet for 1–2 minutes each, transfer sandwiches to a baking sheet and bake 5–7 minutes until cheese is fully melted.

Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board and let rest 1 minute to prevent cheese from running out when cut. Slice each sandwich diagonally or in half, as desired.

Serve hot with optional condiments such as pickles, a simple side salad, or tomato soup for dipping.