Let’s take a classic grilled cheese sandwich to the next level by making it The Ultimate Grilled Cheese. I’m sharing my secret blend of ingredients to create an epic sandwich worthy of its name.
Let’s Make the Best Grilled Cheese:
I was brainstorming recipe ideas with my mom recently. I like to get outside input as to what might be good to share. One of the first things she suggested was this Ultimate Grilled Cheese. When she made it, she always paired it with the best tomato basil soup. You’ll want to grab that recipe HERE.
And yes, I added some of my homemade croutons to my soup as well because why not. Ha!
As soon as she mentioned the ultimate grilled cheese, I immediately went, “YES!” Honestly, it has been years since I’ve had this grilled cheese or tomato soup and I knew now would be the perfect time to share them since the weather is starting to get a little cooler. In my opinion, they are the perfect comfort food!
Looking for more cheesy recipes? Try these:
- Chili Cheese Dip
- Cheese-Filled Pull Apart Rolls
- Really Good Pimento Cheese
- Everything Bagel Cheese Ball
So, you might ask, “What makes it the ULTIMATE grilled cheese?“
Well, it’s not just cheese and bread. It’s a combination of ingredients that add flavor, creaminess, cheesiness, and body to this sandwich. We’ll get into this more below.
There are also a few tricks to making a really good grilled cheese.
Some Frequently Ask Questions:
Before I get into the recipe, here are some frequently asked questions when folks are making grilled cheese.
What’s the secret to a good grilled cheese sandwich?
There are a few things I’d like you to consider when making a grilled cheese sandwich.
- Start with fresh, soft bread. I head straight to the bakery, grab a fresh loaf and slice it myself.
- Use quality cheese and cheese you love. Below, I’ll share the cheese I like for this ultimate grilled cheese, but feel free to substitute using one of your favorites. If you can, freshly shred your cheese.
- Set your pan heat to medium-ish. Having your pan at the right temperature is really important especially if you’re making a thicker sandwich like this one. You want it to be warm enough so that it browns but not so hot that the bread burns before the cheese is melted.
Speaking of cheese…
What kind of cheese is best for grilled cheese?
Whatever cheese you like! Seriously. If you’re not sure what cheese(s) you like, I generally reach for a cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for that beautiful stretch. Monterey jack and gruyère are great options too.
What can I put in a grilled cheese?
Truth be told, I’m a purist and like my grilled cheese without extra items. However, If you’re looking for other things to add to your grilled cheese sandwich, I’ve listed some to consider. I think any of these additions would be delicious in a standard grilled cheese or this ultimate grilled cheese recipe.
- sliced or sun-dried tomato
- caramelized onions
- olives or olive tapenade
- grilled vegetables
- sauteed mushrooms
- sliced apples
- ham or other deli meats
- bacon
- pickles
Now that I’ve answered some of the commonly asked questions, let’s get into the details of this ultimate grilled cheese recipe.
What goes into the ultimate grilled cheese?
To get things started, here’s what you’ll need to put this sandwich together. I assume these ingredients are pretty self-explanatory. Essentially, the purpose of everything that is being added here is to create ultimate flavor and creaminess. In other words, the additional ingredients take the sandwich up a notch compared to just cheese and bread.
Ingredients:
- cream cheese
- mayonnaise
- shredded cheddar
- shredded mozzarella
- garlic powder
- seasoned salt
- thick sliced Italian bread
- butter
How to Make:
I’ll walk you through the steps here. I’ve also provided a detailed ingredient list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.
- In a medium bowl add the cream cheese, mayo, cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, and salt. Mix with a wooden spoon to evenly combine.
- Divide the mixture evenly onto six pieces of thickly sliced Italian bread.
- Top with the second piece of bread.
- Butter the outside of the sandwiches.
- In a lidded skillet over medium heat, toast the sandwiches for four to five minutes on each side or until the bread is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
- Use the lid for half or more of the cooking time to thoroughly melt the cheese.
- Slice in half and serve immediately.
And that’s it.
You’re ready to enjoy your ultimate grilled cheese sandwich. I highly recommend serving it with a big bowl of my creamy tomato basil soup for the best combination. I know you’re going to love it.
Let’s Eat!
Please give this recipe a try. Pair it with the soup. All things consider, I think you’re going to be obsessed!
It makes a great lunch for a group of friends or a wonderful dinner for your family. You can make the soup AND this ultimate grilled cheese in under 30 minutes. It’s that easy.
Enjoy and happy grilling!
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The Ultimate Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese - softened
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 2/3 cup shredded cheddar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon seasoned salt
- 12 slices Italian bread - thick sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- In a medium bowl add the cream cheese, mayo, cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, and salt. Mix with a wooden spoon to evenly combine.
- Divide the mixture evenly onto six pieces of thick-sliced Italian bread. Top with the second piece of bread. Butter the outside of the sandwiches.
- In a lidded skillet over medium heat, toast the sandwiches for four to five minutes on each side or until the bread is lightly browned and the cheese is melted. Use the lid for half or more of the cooking time to thoroughly melt the cheese.
- Slice in half and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Try using mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of butter! It spreads easily and browns well.
17 pictures of grilled cheese makes you hungry! LOL
LOL. Mission accomplished.
xo Michael
Yum!!!