Best Grilled Cheese

Let’s talk about the ultimate comfort food upgrade you never knew you needed. This isn’t just any grilled cheese – it’s the perfectly golden, incredibly melty sandwich that’ll make you forget every other version you’ve tried.

The secret? A combination of mayo for that impossibly crispy crust and carefully selected cheese that creates those Instagram-worthy cheese pulls. Every bite delivers that satisfying crunch giving way to gooey, melted perfection.

Ingredients

For the Sandwich:

• 4 slices bread (preferably sourdough or country white)
• 2-3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

Steps

1. Begin by spreading 1-2 teaspoons mayonnaise evenly on one side of each bread slice. The mayo should form a thin, even layer – this is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
2. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C). Place one slice of bread mayo-side down in the skillet. You should hear a gentle sizzle – if it’s too loud, your pan is too hot.
3. Immediately add ½ cup shredded cheese to the bread in the pan, spreading it evenly to the edges. Top with the second slice of bread, mayo-side up. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown. Check by gently lifting a corner with a spatula.
4. Using a wide spatula, carefully flip the sandwich and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. The cheese should be visibly melted when you lift the edge of the bread.

Smart Swaps

• Use reduced-fat cheese to lower calories while maintaining melt
• Substitute whole grain bread for added fiber and nutrients
• Try olive oil mayonnaise for healthier fats

Make It Diabetes-Friendly

• Use 100% whole grain bread (reduces net carbs by 6g per slice)
• Choose sharp cheddar – you can use 25% less while maintaining flavor
• Pair with a side salad to slow glucose absorption
• Consider open-faced version to halve bread carbs

Pro Tips

• Grate cheese fresh – pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting
• Let pan heat fully before starting – test with a water droplet that should dance across the surface
• Press gently with spatula while cooking for better cheese-to-bread contact
• Rest 1 minute before cutting for best cheese pull results