-
Next, take your slices of bread and generously spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice. Make sure to cover the entire piece so that every bite is bursting with flavor. Once that’s done, it’s time to layer the cheese! Place two slices of cheese on the unbuttered side of one piece of bread, then top it with another piece of bread, butter side out.
-
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once your skillet is warm, gently place your assembled sandwich in the pan. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the golden brown crust forms and the cheese begins to melt. You’ll want to keep a close eye on this, as the garlic can brown quickly, giving an enticing aroma. After the first side is adequately golden, flip it over and repeat the process on the other side.
-
Once both sides are a beautiful golden brown and the cheese is gloriously melted, remove the sandwich from the skillet. Let it cool slightly on a plate before cutting it in half—this helps the cheese settle a bit. You can serve it with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy it straight up!
Pro Tips for Best Results
One thing I always do when making grilled cheese is to let my ingredients sit out for a few minutes before I start cooking. It helps the butter spread more easily, ensuring even coverage on my bread. I tested this three ways: with cold butter, room temperature butter, and melted butter. Trust me, room temperature gives the best results!
Also, don’t skimp on the cheese! I once tried to save a few calories using less cheese, and while it still tasted okay, the melty goodness was just not the same. Go for a good layer of cheese, and you’ll thank yourself later.
Lastly, I love adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a spicy twist. It gives the sandwich that extra kick, but feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common pitfall when making grilled cheese is using bread that’s too thin. I’ve learned the hard way that flimsy slices don’t hold up well under gooey cheese. Go for thicker slices, like sourdough or ciabatta, which can handle the melty cheese without getting soggy. This will give you a delightful crunch that holds up to the delicious filling. (See the next page below to continue…)
Another mistake is cooking at too high a heat. I used to crank the heat to speed things up, and while my impatience led to quicker cooking times, it often resulted in burnt bread and cold cheese. A medium-low heat is just perfect for achieving that golden-brown crust while allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly.
Finally, don’t forget to season your garlic butter properly! Leaving out the salt or pepper can leave your creation tasting flat. A little sprinkle of seasoning can enhance the flavors and bring everything together, so trust me, it’s well worth it!