Grilled Cheese Recipe

Prepare bread and butter

Soften butter if not already soft. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with black pepper and garlic powder (if using). Spread about 3/4 tablespoon of the seasoned butter evenly on one side of each bread slice. If using mayonnaise instead of butter, spread about 1/2 tablespoon mayonnaise on each slice’s outside surface. The butter/mayonnaise side will be the exterior that contacts the pan for a golden crust.

Assemble sandwiches

Place two bread slices buttered-side down on a cutting board. Spread Dijon mustard (if using) on the unbuttered interior side of each slice. Divide the cheddar cheese evenly between the two sandwiches (about 3/4 cup per sandwich). If using gruyère or Swiss, sprinkle roughly 1/4 cup on each to mix with the cheddar for better melt and flavor. Close each sandwich with the remaining bread slice, buttered-side up.

Heat pan and cook

Heat a heavy skillet or nonstick pan over medium-low to medium heat. The low-moderate heat lets the cheese melt before the bread over-browns. Place one or two assembled sandwiches in the pan, depending on size and pan capacity, buttered side down. Cook for 3–4 minutes without pressing, until the bottom is deep golden brown. Using a spatula, carefully flip the sandwich and cook the second side 2.5–4 minutes, pressing gently with the spatula to encourage contact and even toasting. If after flipping the cheese is not fully melted, reduce heat to low and cover the pan with a lid for 1–2 minutes to trap heat and finish melting.

Rest and slice

Remove sandwiches to a cutting board and let rest 1 minute to set (this prevents cheese from running out). Slice each sandwich diagonally with a sharp knife. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Notes and variations

For crisper crust, use a small amount of neutral oil with butter. Add fillings like thin tomato slices, cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sliced ham—add 2–3 minutes of cook time if fillings are cool. For extra even melting, grate cheeses rather than using thick slices. Adjust seasoning to taste.