Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese: The Ultimate Mash-Up of Comfort Foods!
Prepare yourself for a flavor sensation! This Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese takes two beloved comfort food classics – the gooey, melty perfection of a grilled cheese sandwich and the crispy, aromatic deliciousness of garlic bread – and combines them into one unbelievably satisfying creation. It’s an explosion of cheesy, garlicky, buttery goodness that’s perfect for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or dipping into a bowl of warm tomato soup. Get ready for your new favorite sandwich!
Why This Sandwich Is a Game-Changer
- Double the Comfort: Combines two classic comfort foods into one irresistible bite.
- Flavor Explosion: The pungent garlic butter elevates the simple grilled cheese to gourmet levels.
- Perfectly Crispy & Gooey: Achieves that ideal balance of golden-brown, crunchy bread and warm, stretchy melted cheese.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in minutes, making it ideal for a speedy meal.
- Irresistible Aroma: The smell alone will make your mouth water!
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to craft your magnificent Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese:
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp softened butter
- ½ tbsp garlic powder (or 1-2 cloves fresh garlic, minced, for stronger flavor)
- ¼ tsp dried parsley (optional, for color and subtle herb flavor)
- 4 slices sandwich bread (sourdough, Texas toast, or a sturdy white bread work best)
- 4 slices good melting cheese (cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, or American are excellent choices)
- Optional: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra crispiness and flavor
Instructions: Grill Up the Garlicky Goodness!
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, garlic powder (or minced fresh garlic), and dried parsley (if using). Mix well until thoroughly combined.
2. Butter the Bread:
Generously spread the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly on one side of each of the 4 slices of sandwich bread. This buttered side will be the exterior of your grilled cheese.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Place 2 slices of bread, garlic-buttered-side down, on a clean surface. Lay 2 slices of good melting cheese on top of one bread slice. Place the other bread slice, garlic-buttered-side up, on top of the cheese, completing your sandwich. Repeat for the second sandwich.
4. Grill to Perfection:
Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the assembled garlic bread grilled cheese sandwiches into the hot skillet. If desired, you can sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan cheese onto the unbuttered side of the bread facing up in the pan before flipping for an extra crispy, cheesy crust. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until both sides are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is beautifully melted and gooey.Tip: You may want to cover the pan for the last minute or two of cooking to help the cheese melt fully without burning the bread.
5. Slice and Serve:
Carefully remove the hot garlic bread grilled cheese from the skillet. Let them rest for 1-2 minutes on a cutting board to allow the cheese to set slightly. Slice diagonally and serve immediately with a side of warm tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Tips for Grilled Cheese Mastery
- Fresh Garlic vs. Powder: For a bolder garlic flavor, use freshly minced garlic instead of garlic powder. Just be sure to mince it very finely.
- Good Melting Cheese: Choose cheeses known for their meltability. A combination of cheeses can also add complexity.
- Medium Heat is Key: Don’t grill on too high heat, or the bread will burn before the cheese has a chance to fully melt. Medium heat ensures even browning and a gooey interior.
- Bread Choice: A sturdy bread will hold up best to the butter and cheese. Sourdough adds a nice tangy contrast.
- Additions (Optional): For extra flavor, consider adding a thin slice of provolone or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the cheese layer. A few finely diced jalapeños for a kick could also be delicious!
- Air Fryer Option: You can also make this in the air fryer! Place buttered sandwiches in a preheated (375°F/190°C) air fryer for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and melty.
Get ready to elevate your grilled cheese game with this incredibly flavorful Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese! It’s a simple idea with seriously delicious results.