Grilled Cheese Recipe
Make Grilled Cheese Recipe in just 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Sandwiches
Method
Sandwiches
Prepare bread and butter
Spread about 1 tablespoon of softened unsalted butter evenly on one side of each bread slice. The buttered side will be the exterior that contacts the hot pan. If you prefer less butter, reduce to 3/4 tablespoon per slice.
Assemble cheese layers
Place two slices of bread on a clean work surface with the unbuttered sides up. If using, spread 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard evenly on the unbuttered side of each bottom slice. Distribute the cheeses on the unbuttered side of one slice: start with the 3 oz sharp cheddar (evenly covering most of the bread), then add 1 oz mild cheddar/American and the optional 0.5 oz gruyère/fontina for extra melt and flavor. If using tomato, place 1–2 thin slices on top of the cheese and season the tomato with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt (about 1/8 teaspoon) and freshly ground pepper (a pinch). Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side out.
Preheat the pan
Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-low to medium heat for 2–3 minutes. The goal is moderate heat so the bread browns slowly while the cheese melts fully; too hot and the bread will burn before the center melts.
Cook the sandwich
Place the assembled sandwich in the preheated skillet, buttered side down. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Using a spatula, press gently to ensure even contact. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the second side for another 3–4 minutes, lowering heat slightly if the bread appears to be browning too quickly. If after flipping the cheese hasn’t fully melted, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid or a sheet of foil for 1–2 minutes to trap heat and finish melting.
Rest and slice
Remove the grilled cheese from the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Let rest for 1 minute (this lets the cheese set slightly and prevents oozing). Slice the sandwich in half diagonally or straight down the middle, as desired.
Serve
Serve immediately while hot and gooey. Optionally serve with tomato soup, pickles, or ketchup. Adjust seasoning to taste with extra flaky sea salt or freshly ground pepper if needed.