Grilled Cheese Recipe

Prep the bread and cheese

If using mayonnaise for a crisper exterior, spread 1 tbs mayo on the outsides of both bread slices instead of butter. Otherwise, spread 1 tbs softened unsalted butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.

Assemble

Place one bread slice butter-side-down in a nonstick skillet or on a griddle. Arrange 2 slices of cheddar cheese on the bread. If using any optional add-ins (see Optional add-ins section), add them on top of the cheese now. Top with the second bread slice, butter-side-up (or mayo-side-up if using mayo).

Cook

Heat the skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the sandwich gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and cheese begins to melt. Flip carefully with a spatula, press gently with the spatula, and cook another 2 to 4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted. If the cheese needs extra melting without over-browning, cover the pan with a lid for 30–60 seconds.

Finish

Remove sandwich from the skillet and let rest 30 seconds. Slice diagonally and serve hot with chosen side and drink.

Deli ham: Place 1 slice of ham on top of the bottom cheese slice before adding the top bread slice. The ham will warm through while cheese melts.

Tomato: Pat tomato slices dry with a paper towel to avoid soggy sandwich. Place tomato slices on top of the cheese. Optionally season tomato lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper before assembling.

Avocado: Layer 2 thin avocado slices on the cheese. For best results, add avocado after flipping once and covering the pan briefly so avocado warms but doesn't get crushed during pressing.

Oven-baked frozen french fries

Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Spread 85 g frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, toss lightly with 1 tsp oil (not listed separately) and a pinch of salt. Bake 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden and crisp. Serve immediately alongside the sandwich.

Pan or air-fryer option for fries

Air fryer: place fries in a single layer and cook at 200°C (400°F) for 8–12 minutes, shaking halfway. Stove-top: heat a small amount of oil in a skillet and cook fries in batches until crisp (about 8–10 minutes).

Apple slices

Core and thinly slice a fresh apple to make about 1/2 cup. To prevent browning, toss with a teaspoon of lemon juice (optional). Serve cold on the plate next to the sandwich.

Applesauce

Spoon 1/2 cup applesauce into a small ramekin or portion cup and place alongside the sandwich.

Chill the chosen beverage (200 ml milk, 200 ml apple juice, or 200 ml soda) if not already cold. Pour into a child-appropriate cup and serve alongside the sandwich and chosen side.

If desired, lightly sprinkle a pinch of salt and a little black pepper to taste on the tomato or apples. Plate the grilled cheese with the chosen side and place the drink next to the plate. Serve immediately while the sandwich is warm and cheese is melty.