Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Delight

This garlic bread grilled cheese transforms two comfort food classics into one irresistible sandwich. The familiar crunch of buttery garlic bread envelops gooey melted cheese for a lunch that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

I created this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something quick yet satisfying. My kids now request these sandwiches weekly, calling them "pizza sandwiches" because of the garlic and cheese combination.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Provides the rich base for our garlic spread creates that perfect golden crust
• Garlic powder: Infuses the butter with aromatic garlic flavor without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
• Dried parsley: Adds a subtle herbal note and visual appeal to the garlic butter
• White sandwich bread: Creates the perfect canvas sturdy enough to hold up to grilling yet soft inside
• Shredded cheese blend: The combination of mozzarella and cheddar offers the perfect balance of meltability and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create The Garlic Butter:

Place softened butter in a small mixing bowl and add garlic powder and dried parsley. Mix thoroughly until completely combined and smooth. This flavored butter is the key to transforming ordinary grilled cheese into garlic bread perfection.

Prepare The Bread:

Take all four slices of bread and apply an even layer of garlic butter mixture to one side of each slice. Be sure to spread it right to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite. The butter should be at room temperature for easy spreading without tearing the bread.

Assemble The Sandwiches:

Place two slices of bread butter side down on your work surface. This positioning ensures the garlic butter will hit the pan directly. Distribute the shredded cheese blend evenly across both slices ensuring complete coverage. Place remaining bread slices on top with butter side facing up.

Cook First Side:

Place sandwiches in a large skillet over low heat. Low and slow is crucial here as it allows the bread to become golden and crisp while giving the cheese enough time to melt completely. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes watching carefully to prevent burning.

Flip And Finish:

Using a spatula carefully flip each sandwich over. The first side should be deeply golden brown. Continue cooking the second side for another 4 to 5 minutes until equally golden and the cheese inside has completely melted.

Serve Immediately:

Transfer the finished sandwiches to plates and serve right away. The contrast between the crispy exterior and molten cheese interior is best enjoyed fresh from the pan while still hot.

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The garlic powder is truly the star ingredient here. I once tried making this with fresh garlic and while delicious it burned too quickly in the pan. The powder gives all the flavor without that risk making it my preferred method for consistent results every time.

Perfect Cheese Selection

While the recipe calls for a mozzarella and cheddar blend this sandwich welcomes experimentation. Mozzarella provides that coveted cheese pull effect while cheddar delivers rich flavor. For an elevated version try adding a small amount of parmesan to the mix for nutty depth or provolone for an Italian twist. Whatever cheese you choose make sure it has good melting properties for that perfect gooey center.

Make Ahead Options

You can prepare the garlic butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Simply bring it to room temperature before using for easy spreading. This time saving hack means you can quickly make these sandwiches whenever the craving strikes without measuring ingredients each time. The garlic flavor actually intensifies slightly when the butter is made ahead making the sandwiches even more flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

These sandwiches pair perfectly with tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food meal. The acidity of the soup cuts through the richness of the cheese creating a balanced combination. For a lighter option serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. During summer months these make excellent quick dinners paired with fresh corn on the cob or watermelon slices for a meal that requires minimal cooking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make the bread extra crispy?

Cook the sandwiches over low heat to ensure the bread gets deeply golden and crisp without burning, allowing the garlic butter to create a crunchy crust.

→ Can I use a different cheese blend?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses like provolone, gouda, or Swiss for a variation in flavor and texture.

→ What’s the best way to melt the cheese evenly?

Cook the sandwiches over low heat and cover the pan with a lid for a portion of the time to trap heat and help the cheese melt thoroughly.

→ Can I use whole grain or sourdough bread?

Absolutely! Whole grain or sourdough bread can bring additional flavors and textures to the sandwich. Just be sure to choose slices with a similar thickness to standard sandwich bread for even cooking.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Grilled cheese is best eaten fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter and shred the cheese in advance. Assemble and cook the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture.