Garlic Mushroom Grilled Cheese
The Garlic Mushroom Grilled Cheese sandwich is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. It features garlicky sautéed mushrooms layered with melty cheese between crispy, buttery toasted bread. Ready in under 30 minutes, this savory sandwich offers a perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures, ideal for a quick lunch or cozy dinner.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Can be adapted to Gluten Free by using gluten free bread
Main Ingredients
- 4 slices good quality bread (sourdough or artisan white bread recommended)
- 1 cup cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup shredded melty cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère)
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened, for spreading)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional herbs like thyme or parsley, finely chopped
Variations
- Feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor
- Dairy-free cheese and coconut oil or vegan butter for vegan option
- Fresh spinach or arugula for added greens
- Red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick
- Fresh rosemary or basil mixed with mushrooms for herb infusion
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean and slice the mushrooms evenly. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Once fragrant, add the mushrooms, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Sauté for 7-10 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and most moisture has evaporated.
- Butter the Bread: Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice to ensure a crispy, golden exterior when grilled.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on a skillet over medium heat. Layer with a generous handful of cheese, then add the sautéed garlic mushrooms evenly on top. Finish with more cheese and cover with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
- Grill the Sandwich: Cook slowly, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and cheese starts to melt, about 3-4 minutes per side. Flip carefully and repeat on the other side, adjusting heat as necessary to avoid burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking to allow the cheese to set slightly. Slice and serve warm for a delicious, gooey experience.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier spreading and even browning.
- Cook mushrooms low and slow to evaporate moisture and prevent sogginess.
- Choose cheeses with good melting properties like mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère.
- Grill on medium heat to allow crust to crisp and cheese to melt without burning.
- Press the sandwich lightly while grilling to fuse ingredients without squashing it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: Garlic mushroom grilled cheese, comfort food, savory sandwich, grilled cheese variation, mushroom sandwich, easy lunch recipe