Original Melt Recipe
Four-cheese blend grilled cheese
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Ingredients
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Sandwiches
Cheese Blend
Optional finishing
Method
Prepare cheese blend
- 1
Mix cheeses
In a medium bowl combine shredded sharp cheddar, gruyère, mozzarella, and fontina. Add softened cream cheese and use a rubber spatula to fold until the mixture is cohesive but still slightly textured. Season with freshly ground black pepper and set aside.
Assemble sandwiches
- 2
Spread one side of each bread slice thinly with mayonnaise. On the opposite side of four slices, divide the four-cheese blend evenly (about 3/4 cup per sandwich for 4 sandwiches). If using, place two pickle slices on top of the cheese for each sandwich and sprinkle chives. Top with the remaining bread slices, mayonnaise side out, to form four sandwiches.
Cook
- 3
Butter and season
In a small bowl combine the unsalted butter and garlic powder. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the butter mixture evenly over the outside (mayonnaise side) of each assembled sandwich. This creates a golden, flavorful crust.
- 4
Pan-grill
Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Place two sandwiches in the pan (do not overcrowd). Cook gently for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula or a heavy spoon for even contact, until the bread is deep golden brown and the cheese is melted. If the bread is browning before the cheese melts, lower the heat and cover the pan for 1–2 minutes to trap heat and finish melting. Repeat with remaining sandwiches.
- 5
Rest and serve
Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board and let rest 1 minute. Slice each sandwich diagonally if desired and serve immediately. Optionally garnish with extra chives.