Making Grilled Cheese: The Perfect Timing Guide

There's nothing quite like a grilled cheese sandwich. But how long does it take to make the perfect grilled cheese? The answer depends on the method you use to cook it. If you're using an oven, the total cooking time is around 8-10 minutes. For a skillet or frying pan, the sandwich should be done in 6-8 minutes. And if you're using a panini press, your grilled cheese will be ready in 5-6 minutes. No matter which method you choose, the key to a great grilled cheese is a combination of crispy, buttery bread and melted cheese. Now, let's dive into the details of each method so you can become a master grilled cheese maker!

Using a skillet

Grilled Cheese in a Skillet

Ingredients

• Butter
• Bread
• Cheese
• Salt (optional)
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Mayo (optional)

Utensils

• Skillet
• Spatula
• Knife
• Plate

Method

• Set out all your utensils and ingredients.
• Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
• If you want to add salt and garlic powder, sprinkle a little on the buttered sides.
• If you want to add mayo, spread it on the non-buttered side of each slice.
• Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, into the skillet.
• Add cheese on top of the bread in the skillet.
• Place the other slice of bread on top, with the buttered side facing up.
• Heat the skillet on medium heat.
• Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has started to melt.
• Flip the sandwich and cook until the other side is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
• Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool slightly before serving.

Oven method

The oven method is a great way to make grilled cheese sandwiches for a crowd without the mess of a stovetop. You can make multiple sandwiches at once, and they come out perfectly toasted and melted every time. Here's how to do it:

Ingredients:

• Bread (white, wheat, sourdough, brioche, rye, etc.)
• Butter (softened, preferably salted)
• Cheese (American, cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack, etc.)
• Optional fillings: ham, salami, bacon, tomato slices, etc.

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 425-450°F. Place a rimmed baking sheet in the middle rack of the oven to preheat as well.
• Assemble your sandwiches. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. For extra flavour, you can also spread butter on the inside of the sandwich.
• Place your desired amount of cheese and any other fillings on one slice of bread.
• Top with another slice of bread, butter side up.
• Place the sandwiches on the preheated sheet pan.
• Bake for about 5 minutes, then flip the sandwiches over and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, depending on how brown you like your bread.
• For extra crispness, place a second baking sheet on top of the sandwiches to act as a panini press.
• Keep a close eye on the sandwiches, as baking time may vary depending on your oven and the type of bread used.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips:

• Use freshly sliced cheese from your local deli for the best flavour and melting ability.
• If you're making these ahead of time, assemble the sandwiches and place them on the sheet pan, but bake them right before serving for the best texture.
• If you're worried about cheese leaking onto your pan, you can line it with parchment paper, but this may affect how golden brown your bread gets.
• You can also experiment with different types of bread and cheese to find your favourite combination!

Panini press method

Using a panini press is a quick and easy way to make a grilled cheese sandwich with the perfect level of crispiness. The even heat distribution and weight of the press ensure your sandwich is cooked evenly with no flipping required.

Ingredients

• Bread (any type, but sturdy enough to withstand the heat and weight of the press)
• Cheese (popular choices include cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, American, or a combination)
• Butter or oil (optional)
• Additional fillings (such as sliced tomatoes, onions, bacon, ham, avocado, or pesto)

Method

• Preheat your panini press for around 5-10 minutes, following the manufacturer's instructions for the correct temperature and timing.
• Assemble your sandwich by spreading butter or oil on the outside of the bread (optional), then layering cheese and any additional fillings between two slices of bread.
• Place the assembled sandwich in the centre of the preheated panini press, ensuring it is evenly positioned.
• Close the lid of the panini press and apply gentle pressure. This helps the heat distribute evenly and ensures the sandwich cooks thoroughly.
• Cook the sandwich for around 3-7 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning and adjust the timing or temperature as needed.
• Once the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, carefully remove the sandwich from the press using a spatula or tongs.
• Allow the sandwich to cool for a minute or two before slicing and serving.

Tips

• If you like your sandwich flatter, close the press and apply more pressure. For a thicker sandwich, do not press it.
• If you are adding butter or oil, spread a thin layer to avoid it dripping into the press and causing smoke.
• Choose a good quality, sturdy bread to prevent the sandwich from falling apart or becoming soggy.

Grilled cheese ingredients

The classic grilled cheese sandwich is a simple dish, but there are many ways to make it your own. The key ingredients are bread, butter, and cheese, but there are many ways to mix up this trio and many more ingredients you can add to take your grilled cheese to the next level.

Bread

A good grilled cheese starts with the bread. A fresh loaf from your local bakery or grocery store is best. If you're feeling adventurous, rosemary or garlic herb varieties can add a pop of flavor. Sourdough is a popular choice for grilled cheese, adding a tangy flavor to the sandwich, but white bread is also a common choice. If you want to get fancy, you can even lightly toast the bread before grilling your sandwich. For a crispier sandwich, you can also use pre-toasted or day-old bread.

Butter

Butter is essential to achieving that golden-brown crust on your grilled cheese. You'll want to use about 1/2 tablespoon per slice of bread, softening it first for an even spread. Some recipes also call for salted butter, as you really want that salty flavor. You can also use mayonnaise or olive oil on the outside of the bread for a crispier sandwich.

Cheese

The most important ingredient! Mild, creamy cheeses like Havarti, Gouda, and young cheddar are prime candidates for melty perfection. Other good melting cheeses include American, Swiss, fontina, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, provolone, and Muenster. For extra flavor, you can try Dill Havarti, Gruyère, or raclette. Grated cheese tends to melt faster and more evenly, and you can combine two types of cheese for extra flavor.

Extras

Once you've mastered the classic grilled cheese, you can get creative with extra ingredients. Try adding meats, veggies, or spreads. Sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, chopped steamed broccoli, roasted red peppers, or roasted tomatoes are all tasty options. For a gourmet twist, add thinly sliced apples or a slather of fig jam to your sandwich. Pickled red onions, radishes, or jalapeños can also add a fun pop of flavor.

Grilled cheese cooking time

The cooking time for a grilled cheese sandwich depends on the method used. Here is a guide to the cooking time for each method.

Oven Method

The oven method is great for making grilled cheese sandwiches for a crowd of six or fewer people. First, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and place a rimmed baking sheet on the middle rack. Make one sandwich per person by placing two slices of cheese between two slices of bread. Brush the outside of each sandwich with about one tablespoon of fat, such as butter, mayonnaise, or olive oil. Place the sandwiches on the preheated baking sheet and cook until the cheese starts to melt, which should take around five minutes. Then, flip the sandwiches and bake for an additional five minutes or until golden brown.

Panini Press Method

The panini press method is perfect for those who want a crispy crunchy sandwich with minimal effort. Just like the oven method, you'll need to start by making your sandwiches with two slices of bread and two slices of cheese. Preheat your panini press to medium heat and brush the outside of each sandwich with about one tablespoon of fat. Place the sandwiches in the panini press and cook for five to six minutes, or until they are lightly browned and the cheese is melted.

Skillet Method

The skillet method is a fool-proof and low-tech way to make a grilled cheese sandwich. As with the other methods, you'll need to start by making your sandwiches with two slices of bread and two slices of cheese. Preheat a skillet over medium-low heat and brush the outside of each sandwich with about one tablespoon of fat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for three to four minutes, or until they are lightly browned. Flip the sandwiches and cook for an additional three to four minutes, or until the bread is browned and the cheese is melted.

Broiler/Grill Method

The broiler/grill method is another option for making grilled cheese sandwiches. Toast the bread, place it on a rack, butter it, add cheese, and grill it. You can eat it open-faced or as a sandwich.

Jaffle Maker Method

The jaffle maker method is also an option, but be aware that the sealed edges and squished bread may not be ideal for a grilled cheese sandwich.

Microwave Method

Using a microwave to make a grilled cheese sandwich is not recommended.

Stove Method

The stove method involves using a skillet, griddle, or pan on your stove. Start by preheating your skillet or pan over medium-low heat. Butter both sides of each slice of bread and place one slice butter-side down in the pan. Add your desired cheese, then place the other slice of bread on top, butter-side up. Fry until you hear hissing and popping sounds or see the edges turn golden brown. Flip the sandwich and cook the other side until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Frequently asked questions