Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion combining crispy, buttery garlic bread with melty, gooey cheese. This simple yet irresistible sandwich offers a perfect balance of crunchy texture and creamy cheese melt, making it an ideal snack, lunch, or cozy dinner option. Made with pantry staples and easily customizable, it delivers rich savory flavors and satisfying goodness with every bite.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich (serves 1-2) 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Bread
- 4 slices sturdy bread (such as sourdough or Italian bread)
Garlic Butter
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder as substitute)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of cheddar and provolone)
Optional Garnishes and Variations
- Red pepper flakes or harissa (for a spicy kick)
- Cooked bacon, ham, or pepperoni (for a meaty addition)
- Sautéed mushrooms, tomatoes, or spinach (for extra veggies)
- Vegan butter and dairy-free cheese (for a dairy-free version)
- Alternative herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme (instead of parsley)
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter with finely minced garlic, chopped parsley (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly blended and the butter is infused with garlicky flavor.
- Butter the Bread Slices: Spread a generous layer of the garlic butter mixture evenly over one side of each bread slice. This will create the crispy, flavorful exterior once toasted.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet. Evenly layer your choice of shredded cheeses on top, then cover with the second bread slice, buttered side up.
- Grill Until Golden and Melty: Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula to encourage melting of the cheese and browning of the bread. Flip carefully to avoid cheese spilling out. Optionally, cover the skillet briefly to help melt the cheese evenly.
- Serve Warm: Once both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey, remove the sandwich from heat. Let it rest for about a minute before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out too fast.
Notes
- Choose a thick, crusty bread like sourdough or Italian bread for best texture and to prevent sogginess.
- Cook over medium-low heat to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread.
- Using a lid over the pan while grilling helps melt the cheese evenly.
- Don’t overload the sandwich with cheese to avoid spillage and soggy bread.
- Let the sandwich rest briefly after cooking for cleaner, neater slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: garlic bread, grilled cheese, comfort food, cheesy sandwich, garlic butter, easy recipe, snack, lunch, dinner, customizable