Grilled Cheese Recipe

Preparation

Grate the cheddar and monterey jack cheeses and mix them in a bowl. Soften the butter if not already soft. If using Dijon mustard, spread about 1/2 tsp on the interior side of four bread slices.

Assemble Sandwiches

Butter one side of each bread slice evenly (about 1/2 tbs per slice). Place four slices butter-side down on a cutting board or plate. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among those four slices, spreading it to the edges. Sprinkle 1/4 tsp black pepper over each sandwich's cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up, pressing gently to adhere.

Cook on Stovetop

Heat a large nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-low to medium heat. When hot, place 2 assembled sandwiches in the pan (do not overcrowd). Cook until the bottom is golden brown and crisp, about 3–4 minutes. Press gently with a spatula, then flip and cook the other side another 3–4 minutes, or until bread is golden and cheese is melted. Adjust heat to prevent excessive browning before cheese melts. Repeat with remaining 2 sandwiches. If bread is browning too quickly before cheese melts, reduce heat to low and cover the pan for 1–2 minutes to trap heat.

Finish and Rest

Transfer cooked sandwiches to a cutting board and let rest for 1 minute to set. Slice each sandwich in half diagonally and keep warm until fries are ready.

Prepare Potatoes

Cut the potatoes into evenly sized sticks (about 1/3–1/2 inch thick). Rinse the cut fries under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels; removing moisture helps achieve a crisp exterior.

Cook (Oven Method - recommended for ease)

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the dried potato sticks with 2 tbs of oil, 2 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp paprika until evenly coated. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a foil-lined tray, leaving space between pieces. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and crisp at the edges. Increase oven temperature or roast a few minutes longer if not crisp enough.

Alternative Cook (Frying)

If frying, heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry potatoes in batches for 3–5 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined tray and immediately season with additional salt to taste.

Finish

Keep fries warm in a low oven (200°F / 95°C) while finishing sandwiches if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Plate one grilled cheese sandwich (cut halves) with a generous portion of fries. Serve ketchup and pickle slices on the side. Recommend serving hot so the cheese remains melty and fries stay crisp.