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Ingredients
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Sandwich
Fries
Drink
Method
Sandwich
- 1
Prepare bread and cheese
Spread about 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly on the outer face of each bread slice. On the unbuttered face of one slice, spread the mustard if using. Layer the cheddar (and mozzarella if using) evenly on top of the mustard side. Sprinkle black pepper across the cheese if desired. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
- 2
Cook the sandwich
Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Place the buttered sandwich in the skillet. Cook gently for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Flip carefully with a spatula, pressing lightly, and cook another 3–4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted. If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, reduce heat to low and cover the pan for 1–2 minutes to help melt the cheese through.
- 3
Rest and slice
Remove the grilled cheese to a cutting board and let rest 1 minute to settle. Slice in half diagonally or down the middle and serve hot.
Fries
- 4
Prep potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Cut into even 1/4–1/2-inch sticks. For crisper fries, place cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak 20–30 minutes, then drain and pat very dry with a clean towel.
- 5
Cook fries (pan-baked/stovetop method)
Heat 1–2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the dried potato sticks in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender, about 8–12 minutes. Reduce heat if they brown too quickly. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towel to drain any excess oil. Season immediately with sea salt and paprika while hot.
- 6
Alternative: oven-baked fries
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss dried potato sticks with oil, salt, and paprika on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake 20–30 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden and crisp. Serve hot.
Drink
- 7
Pour 12 oz of your chosen soft drink or iced tea into a glass filled with ice if desired. Stir briefly and serve chilled alongside the grilled cheese and fries.
