Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mash-Up
When you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, nothing satisfies quite like a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese. This recipe brings together two of the most beloved dishes of all time—crisp, buttery garlic bread and gooey, melted cheese—into one irresistible sandwich. It’s crunchy on the outside, melty on the inside, and bursting with rich, garlicky flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, this elevated grilled cheese will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Is a Game Changer
This isn’t your average grilled cheese. By combining the savory punch of garlic butter with the cheesy indulgence of a classic melt, we’ve created a sandwich that’s bold, rich, and deeply satisfying. Perfect for dunking in tomato soup, serving with a salad, or enjoying all on its own.
Ingredients for the Best Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
To make two perfectly grilled sandwiches, you’ll need:
- 4 slices thick-cut sourdough bread (or any hearty artisan bread)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (or use parsley for a milder herbal note)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese mix (or slices if preferred)
- Optional: grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or fresh basil for garnish
How to Make Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
1. Make the Garlic Butter Spread
In a small bowl, combine:
- 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or parsley
Mix until smooth and well combined. For a richer flavor, you can also add a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Prepare the Bread
Lay out your four slices of sourdough bread. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over one side of each slice. This will be the outer layer that crisps up in the pan.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
On the unbuttered side of two slices, pile on your cheese. We recommend a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar for the perfect combination of stretch and flavor. You can also experiment with provolone, Monterey Jack, or Gouda depending on your preference.
Top with the remaining slices of bread, garlic butter side out.
4. Grill to Golden Perfection
Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook slowly, allowing the butter to crisp up the bread without burning.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Use Thick-Cut Bread
The key to holding all that melted cheese and garlic butter is using sturdy, thick slices of bread. Sourdough, Italian loaf, or Texas toast are excellent choices.
Low and Slow Cooking
Grilled cheese is best cooked low and slow. High heat will burn the bread before the cheese has time to melt. Patience makes it perfect.
Add a Cheese Crust
For extra decadence, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on the buttered side of the bread before grilling. This adds a crispy, golden crust that takes the sandwich over the top.
Want a Kick?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy twist, or layer in a slice of pepper jack for heat.
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Variations to Try
1. Caprese Grilled Cheese
Add sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella, and drizzle with balsamic glaze before grilling.
2. Garlic Turkey Melt
Include thin slices of roasted turkey or chicken for a protein-packed version.
3. Pesto Garlic Grilled Cheese
Swap oregano with basil pesto and add fresh mozzarella for an Italian-inspired twist.
4. Spinach & Artichoke Melt
Spread a layer of spinach-artichoke dip between the cheese slices for a bold, creamy upgrade.
What to Serve With Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
- Tomato Basil Soup – the classic combo
- Creamy roasted red pepper soup
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Crispy fries or sweet potato chips
- Pickles or a small charcuterie-style side
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- To Make Ahead: Assemble the sandwiches and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Grill when ready to eat.
- To Freeze: Wrap fully assembled (but ungrilled) sandwiches in plastic wrap and freeze. Grill directly from frozen over low heat, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
- Leftovers: Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to restore crispiness—avoid the microwave, which makes the bread soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best cheese for grilled cheese?
A mix of cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for stretch is ideal. You can also add Swiss, provolone, or brie for a more gourmet touch.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use plant-based butter and vegan cheese. Choose a dairy-free bread option like rustic whole grain or sourdough.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic delivers the most flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, use ½ teaspoon garlic powder mixed into the butter.
Nutrition Information (Per Sandwich)
- Calories: ~470
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional content varies based on bread and cheese types used.
Conclusion
This Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe is a must-try for any cheese lover looking to level up their sandwich game. It’s rich, crunchy, savory, and deeply satisfying—a warm hug in sandwich form. Whether paired with soup or eaten solo, it’s bound to become a repeat request in your household.