Grilled Cheese Recipe
A simple favorite served with your choice of cheese.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Sandwich
Optional additions
Method
Prepare bread and cheese
Assemble spreads
If using butter: let butter sit at room temperature until slightly soft (5–10 minutes) or warm gently to soften. If using mayonnaise instead, have it ready. Mix the softened butter with the salt and pepper until evenly combined.
Spread bread
Spread an even layer of the butter mixture (about 1/2 tbs per slice) on one side of each bread slice. If using mayonnaise, spread about 1/2 tsp on one side of each slice instead. The butter/mayo side will be the outside of the sandwich (the side that contacts the pan).
Arrange cheese and additions
Place one slice of bread buttered-side down on a cutting board or plate. Arrange the cheese slices on the unbuttered side, covering most of the bread. Add any optional additions (tomato, caramelized onions, bacon, basil) on top of the cheese, then top with the second cheese slice if using extra. Place the second bread slice on top with the buttered side facing up.
Cook sandwich
Preheat pan
Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Preheating for 2–3 minutes is sufficient. The goal is moderate heat so the bread browns slowly while the cheese melts.
Cook first side
Place the assembled sandwich in the skillet, buttered side down. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even contact. Cook for 3–4 minutes, checking after 2 minutes to ensure it is not browning too quickly. When the bread is golden brown and crisp, proceed to flip.
Flip and finish
Flip the sandwich carefully with a spatula. If the cheese needs help melting, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid for 1–2 minutes. Cook the second side until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, about 2–4 minutes depending on heat and thickness.
Rest and slice
Remove the sandwich from the pan and place on a cutting board. Let rest for 1 minute (this helps the cheese set slightly). Using a sharp knife, slice the sandwich in half diagonally or down the middle. Serve immediately.
Serve
Plate the grilled cheese with your choice of accompaniments such as tomato soup, pickles, or a simple side salad. Adjust seasoning with an extra pinch of salt or pepper if desired.