Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsUncle Bo's Pupu Bar & GrillGrilled Cheese Sandwich & Fries Recipe

Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Fries Recipe

Time45m
Serves1

Make Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Fries Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Sandwich

Method

Sandwich

  1. 1

    Prepare bread and cheese

    Grate or thinly slice the cheeses so they melt evenly. Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter on the outside of each bread slice. If using mayonnaise, blend it with the remaining 1 teaspoon butter and spread very thinly on the outside instead of butter for extra-even browning. On the inside of one slice, spread Dijon mustard (if using) and a light sprinkle of black pepper.

  2. 2

    Assemble

    Pile the cheddar and fontina/Gruyère on the inside of the prepared bread slice (about 1 cup cheddar + 1/2 cup fontina). Place the second slice butter-side-out on top, pressing lightly to form a compact sandwich.

  3. 3

    Cook

    Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-low to medium heat. When hot, place the sandwich in the pan. Cook 3–4 minutes on the first side until deep golden-brown and the butter is sizzling gently; press down occasionally with a spatula to encourage even contact and melting. Flip and cook the second side 2–3 minutes until golden and cheese is fully melted. If the bread is browning too quickly before cheese melts, reduce heat, cover the pan with a lid for 1–2 minutes, or finish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–5 minutes.

  4. 4

    Rest and slice

    Transfer the grilled cheese to a cutting board and let rest 1 minute to avoid cheese runout. Slice in half diagonally and keep warm while finishing fries.

Fries

  1. 5

    Prep potatoes

    Wash and peel the russet potatoes (peel optional). Cut into even 1/3-inch to 1/2-inch sticks. Place cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and rinse; then soak for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour) to remove surface starch. Drain and pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.

  2. 6

    Coat and heat oil

    Toss dried fries with 1 teaspoon cornstarch to help crisping (use a sieve to shake off excess). Heat 3 cups vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to 325°F (160°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

  3. 7

    First fry (blanch)

    In batches, fry the potatoes at 325°F for 3–4 minutes until softened and pale-colored (not browning). Remove with a slotted spoon to a wire rack or paper towel-lined sheet. Let them rest 5 minutes; increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).

  4. 8

    Second fry (crisp)

    Fry the blanched potatoes in batches at 375°F for 2–3 minutes until golden-brown and crisp. Remove to a rack or paper towels to drain. Immediately season with kosher salt, black pepper and garlic powder (if using). Toss with chopped parsley if desired.

  5. 9

    Serve

    Plate fries alongside the grilled cheese. Offer condiments such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or a quick mixed dipping sauce. Enjoy hot.

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