Difficulty Level: easy
There is something timeless about the sound of butter hitting a hot skillet. A few seconds later, the kitchen fills with that familiar, toasty aroma the kind that takes you back to childhood lunches and cozy weekend afternoons. Grilled cheese isn’t complicated, but it delivers something few recipes can: comfort, nostalgia, and the perfect balance of crunch and melt in every bite.
This version is quite simple using just bread, butter, and cheese. Pay close attention to the details: using room-temperature butter for even browning, cooking over medium heat for that slow, golden crisp, and choosing a cheese that melts without turning oily. It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you pause between bites just to appreciate how good something so simple can taste.
You don’t need special tools or gourmet ingredients. Just a few minutes, a skillet, and your favorite bread. Follow the steps below to get that ideal golden crust and soft, gooey center the kind that stretches just enough to make every bite worth the wait.
Ingredients
- 4 slices bread (white, sourdough, or whole wheat)
- 4 oz cheddar cheese (or American cheese), sliced or shredded
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Butter one side of each bread slice evenly. This will form the crispy exterior.
- Preheat skillet over medium-low heat (300°F) for 2 minutes.
- Place 2 bread slices butter-side down in the skillet. Layer cheese evenly on top, avoiding the edges to prevent spills.
- Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up. Press gently with the spatula.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Tip: Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to help melt the cheese faster.
- Carefully flip sandwiches with the spatula. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden and cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from heat, let rest 1 minute (cheese will set slightly), then slice diagonally and serve warm.