If you’re ready to savor the ultimate comfort food mash-up, let me introduce you to the dazzling delight that is Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese. Imagine golden, buttery garlic bread hugging a blanket of gooey, molten cheese—it’s the kind of sandwich that turns an ordinary lunch or late-night snack into pure magic. This crunchy, fragrant, and melty masterpiece is the most irresistible upgrade you’ll ever give to both classic grilled cheese and beloved garlic bread, all in one bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple classics joining forces. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen, bringing its own wow factor to flavor, creaminess, or that golden crunch you crave in every bite.
- Bread: Choose a good sturdy loaf—think French bread or Italian bread—to achieve that crisp exterior and tender crumb.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic delivers that punchy, aromatic flavor that sets this sandwich apart.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for the perfect rich base that melds seamlessly with the garlic and herbs.
- Parsley: This herb livens everything up with a splash of color and a fresh, earthy note.
- Mozzarella Cheese: It’s the master of gooey melts, creating those iconic cheese pulls we all dream about.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds feisty tang and depth, so the filling isn’t just creamy but outrageously flavorful.
- Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch to round out all the flavors and keep everything perfectly balanced.
How to Make Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, a generous heap of minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, and a little pinch of salt. Stir it up until everything is evenly mixed and deeply aromatic. This spread is what gives the Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese its signature punch—it infuses every bite with that unmistakable aroma and savory bite!
Step 2: Slather the Bread
Lay out your bread slices and spread each one with a thick, even layer of garlic butter, going right up to the edges. Don’t be shy here—this is what transforms basic bread into a golden, fragrant treat that crackles with flavor as it grills.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheese Filling
Flip half the slices over so the buttery side is facing out. On the unbuttered side, pile up a glorious mixture of shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar. Don’t forget a little salt and pepper! The cheese duo ensures your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese is both stretchy and bursting with rich, cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat, allowing every sandwich to cook slowly and patiently. Place each sandwich in the pan, garlic butter side down. Grill until the underside is deeply golden and crisp, about 3–4 minutes, then flip carefully and keep grilling until the other side matches and all the cheese inside has fully melted—pure sandwich bliss!
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once golden and gooey, transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board and let them rest for a minute or two. This little pause lets the cheese settle so it won’t all spill out when you slice. Cut each Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese in half, admire the gorgeous cheese pull, and serve immediately for maximum yum!
How to Serve Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Garnishes
A vibrant sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives over the top adds fresh color and a pop of herbal brightness. For those who love a tiny bit of heat, a dusting of red pepper flakes offers just the right kick. And since you can never have too much cheese, a grating of Parmesan on top never hurt anyone.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese is outrageously good on its own, but pairing it with a bowl of tomato soup is like giving yourself a comforting hug. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness, or try a light slaw with lemon for a splash of contrast. Even simple pickles on the side add a fantastic bright crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, cut your sandwiches into quarters and stack them on a platter—instant party food that disappears fast! Or serve mini versions as dippable croutons for hearty soups. For a charming brunch twist, pair tiny triangles with a few breakfast favorites on a grazing board. Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese is wildly versatile—let your imagination run free!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to end up with extras, let the sandwiches cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to two days, making for a quick and delicious snack to revisit!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese! After grilling, let them cool, then wrap each sandwich tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep happily for up to a month. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so they crisp up beautifully again.
Reheating
To regain that crunchy, toasty texture, reheat sandwiches in a skillet over low heat (cover with a lid for a minute to melt the cheese, then uncover to crisp up the bread). You can also bake them in a toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through. A quick zap in the microwave works too, but the bread won’t be as crisp.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Absolutely! It’s quick and convenient, though freshly grated cheese melts a bit more smoothly. Feel free to use your favorite blend or whatever’s in the fridge—that’s part of the fun with Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese.
What bread works best?
A sturdy, crusty bread like Italian, French, or even sourdough is ideal for the ultimate crunch and structure. Softer sandwich bread will still taste great, but may not hold up as well under that glorious garlic butter treatment.
Can I make this dairy free?
Yes! There are wonderful vegan butters and cheeses that melt beautifully. Just make sure your bread is dairy free as well. This way, everyone can dive into Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese bliss.
Can I add any fillings?
You bet—make it your own! Slices of ripe tomato, caramelized onions, or even a handful of cooked spinach tucked in with the cheese take this recipe to new heights. Experiment and make it uniquely yours.
Why is my bread burning before the cheese melts?
This usually means your pan is a bit too hot. Turn down the heat, as patience is key for perfectly golden Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese and fully molten, dreamy cheese inside. Low and slow wins the race!
Final Thoughts
Nothing lights up a table or a cozy night in quite like Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese. Give this superstar sandwich a try—you might just find it becomes your new favorite way to enjoy two classics in one. Grab some good bread, embrace the garlic, and let’s make comfort food memories one melty bite at a time!
PrintGarlic Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe
A mouthwatering twist on classic grilled cheese, this recipe combines the buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread with gooey melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Garlic Bread:
- 4 slices of Italian bread
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
Grilled Cheese:
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons of butter
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic Bread: In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, softened butter, and dried parsley. Spread this mixture on one side of each slice of Italian bread.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Place a slice of cheddar cheese on the unbuttered side of half of the garlic bread slices. Top with the remaining garlic bread slices, buttered side facing out.
- Cook Grilled Cheese: In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally and serve hot.
Notes
- You can customize the cheese selection to your preference, such as using mozzarella or provolone.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the butter mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg