If you are a sandwich lover looking for the ultimate comfort food experience, the Italian Grilled Cheese is a must-try. This delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese brings together the rich creaminess of melted mozzarella with the aromatic charm of roasted garlic herb butter, all nestled between slices of thick, crusty sourdough bread. It’s a perfect blend of savory flavors and satisfying textures that will instantly become a favorite whether you’re cooking a quick lunch or relaxing at home on a cozy evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Italian Grilled Cheese lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting that perfect melty, buttery, and slightly crispy bite. Choosing quality components ensures every mouthful delights your taste buds.
- Epicurean Butter Roasted Garlic Herb Flavored Butter: Adds an irresistible garlicky richness and herbaceous aroma that elevates every slice of bread.
- Thick-cut sourdough bread: Its sturdy texture helps hold all the melty ingredients while contributing a tangy flavor and crispy exterior.
- Mozzarella cheese (12 oz, sliced): Melts beautifully, offering that gooey, creamy goodness essential to any great grilled cheese.
- Optional tomato soup: A classic companion that complements the sandwich with warmth and a tangy contrast.
How to Make Italian Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Begin by spreading a generous layer of the roasted garlic herb butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This butter not only adds flavor but also ensures a golden, crispy crust when toasted. Don’t be shy with the butter—it’s the key to that rich, aromatic exterior everyone will love.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
Place two slices of the buttered bread, butter side down, onto a large, non-stick skillet heated over medium-low. On each slice, layer four slices of mozzarella cheese. Then, top each with another slice of bread, butter side up, creating your sandwich. The careful layering guarantees a deliciously even melt of cheese inside.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
Let the sandwich cook slowly over medium-low heat so the bread toasts evenly without burning while the mozzarella melts into that irresistible gooey center. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a spatula to carefully flip the sandwich and toast the other side until both are golden brown and crunchy. Repeat with remaining ingredients for more sandwiches.
How to Serve Italian Grilled Cheese
Garnishes
A simple Italian Grilled Cheese doesn’t need much, but a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on the side can add a vibrant pop of freshness and a hint of acidity that complements the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with warm, comforting tomato soup. The acidity and subtle sweetness of the soup cut through the richness of the cheese and butter, making every bite balanced and satisfying. A crisp green salad or a handful of crunchy pickles also provide a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For an exciting twist, slice the sandwich into smaller, appetizer-sized pieces perfect for sharing. Layer your Italian Grilled Cheese on a wooden board with a small bowl of soup or dipping sauce and sprinkle some chili flakes or freshly cracked pepper on top for an inviting presentation at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If by any chance you have leftovers, wrap the Italian Grilled Cheese tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep its flavor and texture well for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh or within the first day for maximum melty indulgence.
Freezing
Freezing grilled cheese sandwiches can be tricky as it might affect the texture. To freeze Italian Grilled Cheese sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Italian Grilled Cheese is on a skillet over medium heat to bring back that crispy exterior and melted center. Avoid microwaving if possible, to prevent sogginess. A quick toast on both sides will revive that fresh-from-the-pan deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for Italian Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella provides the iconic stretch and creaminess, feel free to add provolone or fontina for extra flavor complexity. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well to maintain that gooey texture.
Is sourdough bread necessary for this recipe?
Sourdough is recommended because its tangy flavor and sturdy thickness hold up well during cooking, but you can experiment with other hearty breads like Italian or ciabatta for delicious results.
Can I make the sandwich vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the mozzarella with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative and use a vegan garlic herb butter or olive oil for spreading. The flavor combination still works wonderfully and keeps the spirit of Italian Grilled Cheese alive.
How do I prevent the sandwich from burning while cooking?
Cooking over medium-low heat is key. This slower cooking process allows the cheese to melt fully without burning the bread. Patience here creates the perfect texture inside and out.
What can I serve instead of tomato soup?
If you want to switch things up, try a basil pesto dip, a tangy marinara sauce, or even a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. These will all complement the Italian flavors nicely.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Italian Grilled Cheese enough—this sandwich takes a classic favorite and adds just the right amount of flair and flavor to make every bite memorable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a solo comfort meal, it’s a simple recipe with big heart and even bigger taste. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Print
Italian Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Italian Grilled Cheese sandwich features thick-cut sourdough bread layered with melty mozzarella cheese and slathered with flavorful roasted garlic herb butter. Perfectly pan-toasted to a golden crisp and served warm, it makes a comforting and savory meal especially delightful with a side of tomato soup.
Ingredients
Butter
- 1 (3.5 oz) tub Epicurean Butter Roasted Garlic Herb Flavored Butter, softened
Bread
- 8 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
Cheese
- 12 oz sliced mozzarella cheese, about 16 slices
Optional
- Tomato soup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Spread the softened roasted garlic herb flavored butter evenly on one side of each slice of thick-cut sourdough bread. This will help create a crispy, flavorful crust when grilling.
- Preheat the Skillet: Place a large, non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and allow it to warm up. Cooking at medium-low ensures the bread toasts slowly while the cheese melts thoroughly without burning.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Layer two slices of bread butter-side down in the skillet. On each slice, place four slices of mozzarella cheese evenly, then cover each with another slice of bread, butter side up to form the sandwiches.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Cook the sandwiches over medium-low heat for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom bread side turns golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwiches and toast the other side for another 4-5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the bread to crisp up perfectly.
- Repeat: Remove the cooked sandwiches and repeat the process with the remaining bread and cheese to make additional sandwiches.
- Serve: Serve the Italian grilled cheese sandwiches warm alongside tomato soup, if desired, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use softened butter to spread easily and evenly for best results.
- Cooking on medium-low heat prevents burning and helps melt the cheese slowly.
- Thick-cut sourdough bread is recommended for a sturdy sandwich that crisps well without becoming soggy.
- Optional tomato soup pairs wonderfully with the rich and savory sandwich.
- Can be customized by adding fresh basil or tomato slices for extra flavor.
- To reheat, grill the sandwich again briefly in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Pan Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
