Randy Chandler
Grilled cheese is a classic, comforting meal, but sometimes we make too much and are left with leftovers. It is possible to reheat grilled cheese, and there are several methods to do so. You can use a toaster, toaster oven, conventional oven, air fryer, or stove. The key to successfully reheating grilled cheese is to ensure the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Characteristics and Values Table for Reheating Grilled Cheese:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reheating Method | Stovetop, Oven, Toaster, Air Fryer |
| Temperature | 325-400°F |
| Time | 2-12 minutes |
| Container | Plastic wrap or airtight container for freezing |
| Toppings | Butter, Mayonnaise |
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What You'll Learn
Reheating grilled cheese in the oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) for a conventional oven or 325°F (160°C) for a convection oven. Take your sandwich out of the fridge and remove any plastic wrap or foil. If your grilled cheese is frozen, it's best to let it thaw first to avoid an uneven cook.
Place the sandwich directly on the oven rack or on top of a foil bag. If you're using a conventional oven, cook for 10-12 minutes, then flip the sandwich and cook for another 10-12 minutes. For a convection oven, set a timer for 8-10 minutes per side, and remember to set the fan to low. Keep an eye on your sandwich—you're looking for a golden-brown colour and a crispy texture. The cheese should be melted and oozing, but not burnt.
Once your sandwich has reached the desired level of crispiness and the cheese is melted, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before enjoying.
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Reheating grilled cheese in a toaster
Firstly, it is important to note that a toaster oven is different from a conventional toaster. A toaster oven is a small, enclosed appliance with a heating element and a temperature control knob, allowing you to "bake" or "toast" your food. If you have a toaster oven, set it to bake at 350°F without preheating. Place your grilled cheese directly on the rack and let it toast for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted to your liking. Flip the sandwich halfway through to ensure even heating and browning. This method may result in a slightly dried-out sandwich, but it is still a tasty option.
If you only have a conventional toaster, there are a few adjustments to make. First, set your toaster to a medium or slightly lower setting. You don't want the heat to be too high, as this may burn the bread before the cheese is properly melted. Place your grilled cheese in the toaster and lower it down, ensuring the sandwich is securely held by the toaster slots. If your sandwich is too big, consider cutting it in half to fit better.
Keep a close eye on the toaster as it may take a few tries to get the timing right. You want to toast it long enough for the cheese to melt, but not so long that the bread burns. Depending on your toaster and the thickness of your sandwich, this could take 2-4 minutes. If the cheese needs more time to melt, try using a knife to hold up the toaster lever for a few extra seconds after the bread is toasted to keep the heat circulating.
Finally, if you're reheating a thick, stuffed grilled cheese, consider starting the process in the microwave. Place your sandwich in the microwave for 30-45 seconds to help soften the bread and start melting the cheese. Then, transfer it to the toaster, as this will help ensure the cheese is fully melted and gooey by the time your bread is toasted.
With these simple steps, you can enjoy a warm and crispy grilled cheese sandwich without having to start from scratch.
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Reheating grilled cheese in a pan
Grilled cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh out of the pan. However, if you have leftovers, you can reheat them in a pan to recapture that magic.
First, it is important to note that grilled cheese sandwiches do not freeze well. If you are planning to store your grilled cheese sandwich, it is best to let it cool, then wrap it well in plastic wrap or place it in a sealed airtight container to minimize freezer burn. For optimal taste and texture, reheat and eat it within two months.
When you are ready to reheat your grilled cheese sandwich, start by preheating your pan for two minutes on medium heat. Next, spread butter or mayonnaise on both sides of the sandwich. Butter will require pre-melting to prevent it from burning. Mayonnaise is a better option if you want minimal prep work and even browning. Place the sandwich in the pan, butter or mayonnaise side down, and cook at medium-high heat. Cover the pan with a lid, tilting it slightly to trap some steam. After three to four minutes, flip the sandwich and cook the other side for another three to four minutes. Remove the sandwich from the heat once the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
If you are reheating a grilled cheese sandwich that has been refrigerated, you can also use the oven to reheat it. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the sandwich for 10 minutes.
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How to store grilled cheese before reheating
Grilled cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed straight off the stove. However, if you're looking to store and reheat them, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the type of cheese and bread you use will make a difference. For cheese, semi-firm varieties like Gouda or Colby Jack are better than hard cheeses like Parmesan, which don't melt as well. As for bread, firmer options will yield better results than softer ones.
When it comes to storing grilled cheese, you have a few options. If you're looking to keep it warm for a few hours, a thermos is your best bet. Simply fill your thermos with boiling water, let it sit, and then empty and dry it. Cut your grilled cheese into slices or sticks, and place them inside the thermos. Seal it tightly, and your sandwich will stay warm until lunchtime.
If you're planning to store your grilled cheese sandwich for longer, you can use a freezer. However, it's important to note that grilled cheese doesn't freeze well and is best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze it, let the sandwich cool completely before wrapping it well in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container to minimize freezer burn. Freeze-stored grilled cheese is best enjoyed within two months to avoid freezer burn, even though it can be stored for up to six months.
When it's time to reheat your grilled cheese, avoid the microwave, as it will make your sandwich soggy. Instead, reheat it in an oven, toaster oven, or air fryer. For an oven, set the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and heat for 5-7 minutes. For an air fryer, use a temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit and heat for 2-4 minutes. If you're using a toaster oven, place the sandwich directly on the rack and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, flipping it halfway through.
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How to prevent grilled cheese from drying out
To prevent grilled cheese from drying out, it is important to consider the storage and reheating methods.
Firstly, proper storage is crucial for preserving the quality of leftover grilled cheese. Timing and temperature control play key roles in maintaining flavour and texture while preventing bacterial growth. It is recommended to refrigerate leftover grilled cheese within two hours of cooking. Allow the sandwich to cool slightly, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent moisture loss and odour absorption from other foods. For longer storage, place the wrapped sandwich in an airtight container, where it can last for 3-4 days. For extended storage, freeze the sandwich by wrapping it in freezer paper and placing it in a freezer bag. Frozen grilled cheese can be stored for up to 2 months.
When reheating, it is essential to use the correct methods to ensure the sandwich doesn't dry out. The stovetop method is considered the best for reheating grilled cheese, as it preserves the crispy exterior and melts the cheese inside. To do this, heat a frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat and place the sandwich inside. You can add a few drops of water to create steam, helping to melt the cheese. Cover the pan with a lid, slightly tilted to release some steam, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. You can also spread a thin layer of butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread before reheating for extra crunch and to prevent the bread from drying out.
If you are short on time, a toaster oven or regular toaster can be used to reheat grilled cheese. For a toaster oven, wrap the sandwich in foil and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the sandwich is crisp and the cheese is melted. For a regular toaster, use toaster bags to prevent cheese from leaking and set to medium heat. These quick methods can dry out the sandwich more than the stovetop method, so it is important to monitor closely to prevent burning.
By following these storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy your leftover grilled cheese with a crispy exterior and melted cheese, preventing it from drying out.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to reheat grilled cheese is on the stovetop. Slather both sides of the sandwich with butter or mayonnaise and cook at medium-high heat with a lid at a tilted angle to trap some steam.
Preheat the oven to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit and reheat the sandwich for 5 to 10 minutes.
Place the sandwich directly on the rack and use the toast function to heat it to your desired level.
No, you should not reheat grilled cheese in the microwave as it will become soggy.
