How do I prevent the garlic from burning while cooking?

Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter, which is why it's mixed into the butter before spreading. This protects it during cooking. Also, cooking on medium heat gives the garlic time to flavor the bread without scorching.

Can I make garlic bread grilled cheese ahead of time?

It's best fresh, but you can prep the garlic butter and grate the cheese ahead. If you do need to reheat, use a skillet over low heat to regain the crispy texture — avoid microwaving, which softens the bread and makes it soggy.

What other cheeses work well in garlic bread grilled cheese?

Sharp cheddar is a standout, but Gruyère, mozzarella, provolone, fontina, or even a mix of cheeses work well. Choose something that melts smoothly and adds flavor — avoid pre-shredded cheese for better melt and taste.

Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese – Best One-Pan Recipe

Name: Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tbsp unsalted butter: softened for easy spreading and even browning; 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley: adds freshness and a herbaceous note; 1/2 garlic clove, finely grated: infuses the butter with strong garlic flavor; 1/2 tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or 1/4 tsp Morton): enhances overall flavor; Freshly ground black pepper: adds mild heat and depth; 4 thick slices Pullman or other sandwich bread: sturdy and perfect for crisping; 4 oz sharp cheddar, coarsely grated: provides bold, tangy, melty cheese goodness

Description

This Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining the crispy, buttery crunch of garlic bread with the gooey, melty satisfaction of sharp cheddar cheese. Quick to prepare and full of bold, savory flavors, it’s a perfect lunch, dinner, or snack option for any cheese lover.

Ingredients

Scale

4 tbsp unsalted butter: softened for easy spreading and even browning
2 tbsp finely chopped parsley: adds freshness and a herbaceous note
1/2 garlic clove, finely grated: infuses the butter with strong garlic flavor
1/2 tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or 1/4 tsp Morton): enhances overall flavor
Freshly ground black pepper: adds mild heat and depth
4 thick slices Pullman or other sandwich bread: sturdy and perfect for crisping
4 oz sharp cheddar, coarsely grated: provides bold, tangy, melty cheese goodness

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Instructions

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, chopped parsley, grated garlic, salt, and several grinds of black pepper until fully combined.
Spread about 1 tablespoon of the garlic butter on one side of each bread slice.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
Divide the grated cheddar evenly between the two slices in the skillet.
Top each with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up, forming two sandwiches.
Cook for about 4 minutes, checking to make sure the bottoms are golden brown and crisp.
Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook for another 4 minutes, until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Transfer to a cutting board, slice in half, and serve immediately.

Notes

Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the garlic and ensure cheese melts completely.
For best flavor, use freshly grated garlic and high-quality sharp cheddar.
You can customize with add-ins like tomatoes, bacon, or different herbs.
Reheat leftovers in a skillet to maintain crispiness — avoid microwaving.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 490
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 640mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 85mg