Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Sandwich

1. 1

   Prep the butter

   Soften the unsalted butter at room temperature for 10–15 minutes if possible so it spreads easily. If short on time, microwave in 5–7 second bursts until spreadable but not melted. Stir in the optional salt and pepper to taste to create seasoned butter.

2. 2

   Assemble sandwiches

   Lay 2 slices of sourdough Texas toast flat for each sandwich (you should have 2 sandwiches total). On the underside of the top slice (the side that will face the filling), place 2 slices of American cheese per sandwich. On the bottom slice of each sandwich, place 2 slices of American cheese as well so there are 4 slices of cheese total inside each sandwich (adjust if you prefer less or more cheese). Press the sandwiches gently to compact.

3. 3

   Butter outside of bread

   Evenly spread about 1 tablespoon of the softened butter on the outside face of each slice of sourdough (both outer sides of each sandwich). Make sure the butter reaches all edges to promote even browning.

4. 4

   Heat the pan

   Preheat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium to medium-low heat for 2–3 minutes. The pan should be hot enough to sizzle butter gently but not so hot that bread burns before cheese melts.

5. 5

   Cook first side

   Place the sandwiches in the pan, buttered side down. Cook for 3–4 minutes without pressing, until the bottom is golden brown and crisp. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce heat slightly.

6. 6

   Flip and melt cheese

   Carefully flip each sandwich with a spatula. Cook the second side for 2–4 minutes. To ensure the American cheese fully melts, cover the pan with a lid for 1–2 minutes during this side's cook time, or lower heat and cook a bit longer until the cheese is soft and gooey.

7. 7

   Finish and rest

   Remove sandwiches from the pan when both sides are golden and cheese is melted. Let each sandwich rest on a cutting board for 1 minute to set, then slice diagonally if desired. Serve immediately.