Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup, blending the crispy, buttery flavors of garlic bread with the gooey, melty satisfaction of a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Each bite is packed with garlicky goodness and rich, melted cheese, making it an irresistible choice for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe takes two comfort food favorites and turns them into one unforgettable meal. The crispy garlic bread adds a punch of flavor and texture that regular grilled cheese just doesn’t have. It’s quick to make, requires just a few simple ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s totally customizable—perfect for when I want to add my own twist.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bread (preferably thick-cut like sourdough or Texas toast)
- Butter
- Garlic (minced or garlic powder)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Mozzarella cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
directions
- I start by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and a bit of parsley to create a flavorful garlic butter spread.
- I spread the garlic butter generously on one side of each bread slice.
- On the non-buttered side of one slice, I layer the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- I top it with the other slice, buttered side facing out, to form the sandwich.
- In a skillet over medium heat, I cook the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted—about 3–4 minutes per side.
- I remove it from the pan, let it sit for a minute, then slice and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 servings and takes about 10 minutes from start to finish—5 minutes for prep and 5 minutes for cooking. It’s ideal for a quick, satisfying meal.
Variations
- I sometimes add tomato slices or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- For extra richness, I use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheese inside.
- I swap in provolone or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- A dash of Italian seasoning in the garlic butter gives it more depth.
- I occasionally add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
storage/reheating
If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I prefer using a skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispy texture. The microwave works in a pinch, but it tends to soften the bread. A toaster oven or air fryer is also a great option for reheating.
FAQs
What kind of bread works best for garlic bread grilled cheese?
I find that thicker breads like sourdough, Italian, or Texas toast hold up best and give a great crunch.
Can I make this in the oven instead of a skillet?
Yes, I’ve baked it in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
Can I use pre-made garlic butter?
Absolutely. I’ve used store-bought garlic butter when in a hurry, and it still tastes great.
What cheeses melt best for this sandwich?
I like mozzarella and cheddar for their melt and flavor, but provolone and fontina are also excellent choices.
Can I make this sandwich dairy-free?
Yes, I use plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese slices when making a vegan version, and it still turns out delicious.
Conclusion
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese is a game-changer when I want something fast, filling, and packed with flavor. It combines the crisp, savory joy of garlic bread with the creamy comfort of melted cheese in a way that never disappoints. Whether I’m cooking for myself or serving it up for friends, it always hits the spot.
Print
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese combines the crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread with the gooey, satisfying melt of classic grilled cheese. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack.
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut bread (such as sourdough or Texas toast)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Mix softened butter with minced garlic and parsley to make garlic butter spread.
- Spread the garlic butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Layer mozzarella and cheddar on the non-buttered side of one bread slice.
- Top with the other slice, buttered side facing out, to form a sandwich.
- Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
- Remove, let cool for a minute, then slice and serve hot.
Notes
- Use thick-cut bread for best texture and crunch.
- Try different cheese combinations for variety.
- Optional toppings include tomato slices, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a skillet, air fryer, or toaster oven for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg