Randy Chandler
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food, and there are many ways to make them. One way to elevate a grilled cheese sandwich is to add a crispy Parmesan crust. This can be achieved by adding grated or shredded Parmesan to the top of the buttered crust before grilling. The Parmesan adds a crunchy texture and a toasty flavour to the sandwich. It is important to manage the heat of the pan to avoid burning the crust. Additionally, using freshly grated Parmesan and a combination of other cheeses can further enhance the flavour and texture of the sandwich.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bread | Sourdough |
| Crust | Butter or mayonnaise |
| Crust | Grated or shredded Parmesan |
| Pan | Preheat for at least 5 minutes on medium-low |
| Filling | Sharp cheese |
| Filling | Cheddar, Gruyère, or other favourites |
| Filling | Cold ingredients added after grilling |
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What You'll Learn
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for even melting and better flavour
- Spread butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread to hold the Parmesan in place
- Preheat the pan for at least 5 minutes on a medium-low setting on an electric stove, and a lower setting on a gas stove
- Use a sturdy sourdough bread that isn't too thick or thin
- Fill your sandwich with cold ingredients like tomato, lettuce or avocado after grilling
Use freshly grated Parmesan for even melting and better flavour
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food, and adding a Parmesan crust is a great way to take this simple dish to the next level. When making a Parmesan-crusted grilled cheese, it's important to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese to ensure even melting and better flavour.
Freshly grated Parmesan brings more flavour to the dish and melts more evenly, creating a consistent texture throughout the sandwich. The low moisture content of Parmesan cheese allows it to crisp up perfectly when it melts and caramelises in the pan, forming a golden crunchy layer that elevates the grilled cheese sandwich. This crispness is further enhanced by applying a light layer of butter or mayonnaise to the outside of the bread slices before adding the Parmesan. The added fat from the butter or mayonnaise makes it easier to achieve the desired crispness.
When preparing a Parmesan-crusted grilled cheese sandwich, it's crucial to manage the heat of the pan effectively. Preheating the pan for at least 5 minutes on a medium-low setting for electric stoves and a lower setting for gas stoves is recommended. This "low and slow" approach allows the crust to become crispy while giving the cheese enough time to melt evenly.
By following these tips and using freshly grated Parmesan, you can create a grilled cheese sandwich with a crispy, flavourful Parmesan crust that contrasts beautifully with the gooey, cheesy interior. This combination of textures and flavours is what makes Parmesan-crusted grilled cheese sandwiches so irresistible and elevates them from basic to brilliant.
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Spread butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread to hold the Parmesan in place
To get a crispy Parmesan crust on a grilled cheese sandwich, one of the secrets is to spread butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread. This not only helps the Parmesan stay in place but also adds fat, making it easier to achieve the desired crispness. You can use either grated or shredded Parmesan, but fresh is best as it brings more flavour and melts more evenly. Spread a light layer of butter or mayonnaise on the outside of your bread slices, then sprinkle on a generous amount of Parmesan.
When making a grilled cheese sandwich, you want to avoid sogginess and burning. To get the perfect crispy crust, preheat your pan for at least five minutes on a medium-low setting if using an electric stove, and a lower setting if using gas. This "low and slow" approach gives you a crispy crust while allowing enough time for the cheese to melt.
When filling your sandwich with cold ingredients like tomato, lettuce, or avocado, do so after you’ve taken the sandwich off the grill. This means you will need to grill your sandwich with the cheese open-faced. You can also try pressing the sandwich in the pan until the centre cheese is gooey, or broiling the cheese side up in the oven to melt it completely before closing the sandwich.
The choice of cheese to go with your Parmesan crust is important. You want a cheese that is not overpowered by the Parmesan, so a sharp cheese is best. A classic New York cheddar brings tangy flavour and a bright orange colour. Gruyere is another good option, with its nutty flavour and texture.
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Preheat the pan for at least 5 minutes on a medium-low setting on an electric stove, and a lower setting on a gas stove
Achieving the perfect crispy Parmesan crust on your grilled cheese sandwich requires attention to detail and a few key steps. One of the most important steps is preheating your pan. This crucial step ensures you get that coveted crispy crust while allowing enough time for the cheese to melt perfectly.
Preheating the pan for grilled cheese should be done on a medium-low setting for at least 5 minutes if you're using an electric stove. If you're cooking on a gas stove, turn the heat down a little lower. This "low and slow" approach is the secret to achieving that golden, crunchy exterior without burning it. It gives the crust time to crisp up and the cheese time to melt into gooey goodness.
The key to a great grilled cheese sandwich is in the management of the pan's heat. You don't want to rush this process, as it can lead to an unevenly cooked sandwich with a burnt crust and unmelted cheese. By preheating your pan, you create a consistent cooking surface that will deliver even browning and melting.
Additionally, the choice of bread and cheese is important. Go for a sturdy sourdough bread that's not too thick or thin. Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal as it brings more flavor and melts more evenly. A light layer of butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread helps the Parmesan stick and adds to the crispness.
Finally, be generous with your Parmesan. Sprinkle a heavy layer onto the buttered or mayo-coated bread to ensure a crunchy, cheesy crust. This step will take your grilled cheese sandwich to the next level, creating a sublime, flavorful, and irresistibly crispy crunch with every bite.
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Use a sturdy sourdough bread that isn't too thick or thin
When making a grilled cheese sandwich with a crispy Parmesan crust, it's important to choose the right bread. A sturdy sourdough bread that is neither too thick nor too thin is ideal. This type of bread provides a good base for the crust and ensures that the sandwich holds together well during grilling.
A sturdy sourdough bread has a firm texture that can withstand the weight of the cheese and other fillings without falling apart. It also adds a tangy, slightly sour flavour that complements the salty, crispy Parmesan crust. The thickness of the bread is also crucial. If the bread is too thick, it may not cook evenly, resulting in a soggy sandwich. On the other hand, if the bread is too thin, it may burn easily and become too crispy, making it difficult to eat.
The perfect thickness for a grilled cheese sandwich with a Parmesan crust is around 3/4 to 1 inch. This allows enough space for the fillings and ensures that the bread toasts evenly, creating a crispy exterior and a melted interior. When selecting sourdough bread, look for a loaf that is dense and has a tight crumb. This will provide the necessary sturdiness for grilling.
To enhance the crispness of the crust, consider spreading a light layer of butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread before coating it with Parmesan cheese. This adds extra fat, which promotes crisping and helps to hold the cheese in place. By following these tips and choosing a sturdy sourdough bread of the right thickness, you can create a grilled cheese sandwich with a crispy Parmesan crust that is both delicious and visually appealing.
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Fill your sandwich with cold ingredients like tomato, lettuce or avocado after grilling
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food, and one way to elevate them is to add a crispy Parmesan crust. To achieve this, you can follow these steps:
First, preheat your pan for at least 5 minutes on a medium-low setting for electric stoves, and a lower setting for gas stoves. This "low and slow" approach ensures a crispy crust and gives the cheese enough time to melt. Before placing the sandwich in the pan, slather the outside of the bread with butter or mayonnaise. This step not only adds flavour, but also helps the Parmesan stick to the bread. Next, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese onto a shallow dish and carefully press the buttered or mayo-covered side of the bread into the cheese. Now, place the sandwich in the pan, Parmesan-crust side down, and grill until crispy and golden. If you want an even melt and extra texture, you can press the sandwich in the pan with a spatula until the centre is gooey, or broil the cheese side up in the oven before closing the sandwich.
Once your sandwich is grilled to perfection, it's time to add any cold ingredients. Ingredients like tomato, lettuce, or avocado are best added after grilling to avoid sogginess. You can also add other cold ingredients like sliced cured meats, falafel, or thinly sliced cold cuts. If you're using ingredients with high water content, like tomatoes, be sure to pat them dry and season them with salt to extend the life of your sandwich. By grilling your sandwich open-faced and adding cold ingredients after, you'll ensure that each bite is crispy, cheesy, and delicious.
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Frequently asked questions
To get a crispy Parmesan crust, spread butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread slices and sprinkle a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Toast the sandwich on medium-low heat until the crust is golden brown.
You can use any cheese you like for the filling, but a sharp cheese like New York cheddar or Gruyère will add a tangy flavor that pairs well with the Parmesan crust.
A sturdy sourdough bread that is not too thick or too thin works well for grilled cheese sandwiches.
Preheat your pan for at least 5 minutes on medium-low heat. Cook the sandwich for 5 minutes on one side, then flip it over and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
