Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A golden, buttery sandwich with a crisp crust and a molten two-cheese centre. Ready in 15 minutes from pantry basics, it's ideal for a quick lunch.
Published 29 Sep 2026
Ingredients
Equipment: Non-stick frying pan or tawa with a lid, spatula, butter knife, grater
Method
Mix the grated cheddar and mozzarella in a bowl with the black pepper. If using mustard, spread a thin layer on two slices of bread.
Spread the softened butter evenly over one side of each slice, right to the edges. This side will face outward and turn golden.
Place two slices on a board, buttered side down. Pile half the cheese on each, keeping it about 1 cm from the edges. Top with the remaining slices, buttered side up.
Heat a non-stick pan over low-medium heat for 1 minute. Add the sandwiches and cook, pressing gently with a spatula, until the underside is deep golden, 3 to 4 minutes.
Flip carefully and cover the pan with a lid. Cook until the second side is golden and the cheese is melted and oozing at the edges, 3 to 4 minutes.
Rest the sandwiches on a board for 1 minute so the cheese settles, then cut in half diagonally and serve hot.
Cooking tips
- Keep the heat low to medium. High heat browns the bread before the cheese melts.
- Grate the cheese yourself rather than using slices, as it melts more evenly and gives a better pull.
- Spreading butter on the bread instead of the pan gives an even, crisp crust.
- Use sturdy bread; very thin bread can turn soggy or tear when pressed.
Substitutions
- Swap cheddar for any good melting cheese such as Eden processed cheese or Gouda.
- Use ghee or margarine instead of butter.
- Add sliced tomato, green chilli or a spoonful of chopped coriander for a fresh twist.
- Use sourdough or milk bread instead of standard sandwich bread.
Serve with
"Serve with hot tomato soup for dipping, or with ketchup, chilli sauce and a handful of pickles or a simple salad."
Storage
"Best eaten fresh. Wrap leftovers in foil and refrigerate for up to 1 day."
Reheating
"Warm in a dry pan over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side, covered, until the cheese softens again. Avoid the microwave as it makes the bread chewy."
Nutrition per serving, estimated
Estimated from the ingredient list. Values vary with brands and portion size.
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