Go Back
+ servings
Golden Crispy Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Emily Hart

Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

This classic grilled cheese sandwich is golden, buttery, and perfectly gooey in the center. With simple pantry staples and gentle heat, you’ll get a crisp crust and fully melted cheese in under 15 minutes—easy for lunch, busy weekdays, and kid-friendly meals.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: All
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices sandwich bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
  • pinch of salt (optional)

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • wide spatula
  • butter knife
  • Cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

  1. Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice, reaching the corners. Place two slices butter-side down on a plate to form the sandwich bases.
  2. Place cheese on each bottom slice (about 2 slices per sandwich). Top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side facing up.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat for about 1 minute. The pan is ready when a tiny crumb sizzles gently.
  4. Cook the sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side without pressing hard. When golden brown, flip carefully with a wide spatula and cook 3 to 4 minutes more. Lower heat if the bread browns too quickly; the cheese should be fully melted.
  5. Remove from the pan and rest for 1 minute. Slice diagonally and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 18gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 19gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 780mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 900IUCalcium: 450mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cook over medium-low heat so the bread toasts slowly while the cheese melts. Spread softened butter evenly to the corners for the best golden crust. For extra melt and stretch, use a cheddar + mozzarella mix. Optional fillings (like tuna, chicken, eggs, tofu, spinach, tomato, or mushrooms) should be well-drained and used sparingly so the sandwich stays crisp—not soggy. Let the sandwich rest 1 minute before slicing so the cheese sets slightly.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!
QR Code linking back to recipe