This is the BEST Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe with crispy bread and three cheeses. I’m sharing all my “secrets” to make it even better without extra effort.
This recipe includes how to make Grilled Cheese in a skillet and an air fryer.
author’s note
Crispy, Gooey, Perfect: Grilled Cheese Done Right!
I can’t believe I’ve never shared my go-to Grilled Cheese recipe before! I make them all the time, especially when I’ve got a pot of Tomato Basil Soup or Easy Tomato Soup simmering away. Honestly, there’s nothing better than buttery, golden bread filled with gooey, melted cheese and a warm bowl of soup on the side.
Lately, I’ve been making Grilled Cheese in the air fryer, and wow, it’s a total game changer. The bread gets crispier, the cheese melts perfectly, and it’s almost completely hands-off.
This version I’m sharing today is the classic American Grilled Cheese. If you’re in the mood for something a little fancier, check out the FAQs where I shared a few variation ideas or check out Caprese Grilled Cheese or French Dip Grilled Cheese.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe Ingredients
| Ingredient | Swaps or Tips |
|---|---|
| Bread | I like to use Texas Toast for thick, sturdy slices. You can also try sourdough, brioche, or multigrain. |
| Butter | Spread edge to edge for the crispiest crust. |
| Mayo | Use full-fat mayo for rich flavor and even browning. |
| Cheese Mix | Use your favorite mix of cheese or just use one kind for ease. |
| Garlic Powder | Paprika, cayenne, or onion powder are fun swaps if you want to switch up the flavor. |
Quick Tip
To soften butter quickly, unwrap it and place it on a plate. Fill a measuring cup with 1 cup of water, microwave for 2 minutes, then pour out the water and dry the cup. Invert the hot cup over the butter for 5-10 minutes.
The Best Cheese For A Grilled Cheese
Cheese is the star of the show, and using a mix makes it even better! My favorite combo:
- Sharp Cheddar
- Gouda
- Muenster
Other great options: sharp white Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, American, Havarti, Pepper Jack.
How To Make This Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Making a PBJ is simple, but a Grilled Cheese needs a few tricks. Here are my top tips for the best sandwich:
- Butter: Spread softened butter to the edges for a crispy exterior.
- Low heat: Use medium-low to low heat for even toasting and melting. Don’t try to rush the process!
- Cold pan: Start with a cold pan to heat slowly and evenly. This helps the cheese melt as the bread toasts.
How To Cook a Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Any non-stick skillet works great. For making many sandwiches, an electric griddle or flat cooktop is a game changer. You can also use a sandwich or panini press.
For air frying, I recommend this Air Fryer. Air fryer timings can vary by brand, so you may need to adjust for your model. After the first use, the air fryer will be warmed up and cook the next sandwiches faster.
How To Add Flavor To Your Sandwich
Looking for more flavor? Add one of the ingredients listed above!
- Salt: Don’t forget salt, or add an extra pinch to enhance flavors.
- Spices: Add spices to the mayo. Try creole seasoning or cayenne for heat, or paprika and onion powder for general flavor.
How to Make a Gordon Ramsay Cheese Sandwich
Gordon Ramsay’s famous grilled cheese adds kimchi in the middle of the slices! Follow the recipe and add a scoop of kimchi on top of the cheese before cooking.
Serve This Grilled Cheese Alongside:
Grilled Cheese Recipe
Video
Equipment
- Air fryer or skillet
Ingredients
- 2 slices Texas Toast Bread or other thick-sliced bread, see note 1
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter room-temperature, see note 2
- 2 teaspoons mayo
- 1 slice sharp Cheddar cheese
- 1 slice gouda cheese
- 1 slice Muenster cheese
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Set butter out to soften for at least an hour, or see note 2 for a quick method.
- Brush one side of each bread slice with 1/2 tbsp butter. Sprinkle lightly with garlic powder. Flip and spread 1/2 tsp mayo on the other sides. Sprinkle lightly with salt (1/8 tsp).
- Layer 3 slices of cheese on 1 slice of bread. Sandwich slices together. Add toothpicks (see note 1). Place sandwich in air fryer basket, ensuring it has plenty of room (best to cook 1 at a time). Air fry at 360°F for 4–6 minutes, flip, and cook for another 3–4 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted. Adjust times based on your air fryer model.
- To prepare grilled cheese in a skillet, see note 3.
- Cut sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe FAQs
I like both! Here’s why:
–Butter on the outside: Adds wonderful flavor and helps the bread get crispy and brown.
–Mayo on the inside: Adds a subtle flavor and creaminess that complements the cheese perfectly.
Here are my favorite additions to elevate your sandwich:
Caramelized onions
Sun-dried tomatoes
Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, parsley)
Pesto
Sliced apple
Sautéed spinach
Ham or turkey
Sautéed mushrooms
–Heat: The heat might be too high, cooking the outside before the inside melts. Use medium-low heat.
–Cooling: If cooking several sandwiches, let the skillet cool between batches.
Use olive oil cooking spray or brush the bread with a thin layer of olive oil.
