Grilled Cheese Recipe

Prepare ingredients

Remove butter from the fridge so it softens if not already soft. Grate or slice the cheeses if not pre-sliced. Lay out 8 slices of bread on a clean work surface in pairs for 4 sandwiches.

Make spreads

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the kosher salt and black pepper until smooth. If using mayonnaise instead of butter on the inside, set it aside. If using Dijon mustard, have a small spoon ready to smear thinly on the bread interior.

Butter and spread

Spread about 1/2 tablespoon of the salted butter evenly on the outside face of each bread slice (this will be the grilling surface). If using mayonnaise on the inside, spread about 1/2 tablespoon on the inside face of one slice of each sandwich instead of butter there. If using Dijon, lightly smear about 1/4 teaspoon on the inside face of the other slice.

Add cheese

On the inside face (non-buttered side) of each sandwich, layer 2 ounces cheddar (sliced or evenly distributed grated) and 1 ounce of the optional white cheese if using. Press the layers gently so the sandwich is even. Close each sandwich with the buttered outside pieces facing out.

Preheat pan

Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-low to medium heat for 2–3 minutes. The pan should be hot enough to sizzle a drop of water but not so hot that bread browns immediately.

Grill sandwiches

Place two sandwiches in the skillet (do not overcrowd). Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side, gently pressing with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Flip and cook the second side another 3–4 minutes, pressing occasionally. If the bread is browning too quickly before cheese melts, lower the heat and cover the pan for 1–2 minutes to help the cheese melt through.

Finish

When both sides are deep golden brown and the cheese is fully melted (check by slightly opening one sandwich), transfer to a cutting board. Let rest 1 minute, then slice each sandwich diagonally or down the middle.

Serve hot with warmed tomato soup and pickles or a simple salad if desired.