This Garlic Herb Grilled Cheese Sandwich takes your classic comfort food and gives it a gourmet twist — crispy golden bread brushed with garlicky butter and packed with melted cheese infused with fresh herbs. It’s buttery, cheesy, and bursting with flavor in every bite!
INGREDIENTS
For the Garlic Herb Butter:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough, white, or brioche work best)
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend (use any combo below):
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack or Provolone
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or mayonnaise (for extra creaminess, optional)
- Optional add-ins:
- 2–3 slices tomato
- A few spinach leaves or basil
- 2–3 slices cooked bacon
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Mash well with a fork until smooth and fully combined.
Tip: You can make this ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to a week!
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheeses.
For extra creaminess, mix in the optional cream cheese or mayonnaise — it helps bind the cheese and creates that gooey pull when melted.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay out all 8 slices of bread.
Spread a thin layer of garlic herb butter on one side of each slice (this will be the outer side).
Flip over 4 slices and spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture on the inside.
Add optional fillings like tomato, bacon, or spinach if desired.
Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
4. Grill the Sandwiches
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
Once hot, place the sandwiches on the pan (work in batches if needed).
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is completely melted inside.
If the bread browns too quickly, lower the heat — you want time for the cheese to melt perfectly without burning the crust.
5. Serve It Up
Slice sandwiches diagonally for that classic look.
Serve hot with:
- Tomato soup for dipping
- Marinara sauce
- Or a drizzle of honey or hot honey for a sweet-spicy contrast
TIPS & VARIATIONS
- Use flavored bread like rosemary focaccia or garlic ciabatta for an extra herby kick.
- Try different cheeses: Gruyère, Havarti, or Fontina all melt beautifully.
- Make it loaded: Add caramelized onions, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
- Air fryer version: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and crispy
BENEFITS
- Comfort food perfection: Crunchy outside, gooey inside, pure bliss!
- Customizable: Works with any bread or cheese combo.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 15 minutes.
- Kid and adult friendly: Everyone loves the flavor of garlic and cheese
