Creative Uses For Leftover Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

what to do with leftover grilled cheese sandwiches

Leftover grilled cheese sandwiches can be reheated or transformed into new dishes. Reheating methods include grilling in a pan, baking in a toaster oven, and toasting in a toaster oven. Leftover grilled cheese sandwiches can also be used as a base for creating new dishes such as adding different types of cheese, meats, or vegetables.

What to do with leftover grilled cheese sandwiches?

Characteristics Values
Reheating Grilling in a pan, baking in a toaster oven, toasting in a toaster oven
Reheating temperature Medium-high
Reheating time 10 minutes
Reheating tips Add butter, cover with a lid
Turn leftover grilled cheese into Grilled cheese pizza sandwich, grilled mac n' cheese sandwich, grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich

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Reheating in a pan

Reheating a grilled cheese sandwich in a pan is a great way to retain the crispness of the bread and the meltiness of the cheese. While the microwave will likely result in a hot, soggy sandwich, reheating in a pan can help you achieve that awesome melding of buttery-bread-molten-cheese.

To reheat your grilled cheese sandwich in a pan, first, let the pan get nice and hot at medium-high and put a little butter in the bottom. Next, place the sandwich in the pan and put a lid on it to help keep the heat in to melt the cheese. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on the buttered bread before putting it into the pan, for an extra boost of flavor.

Flip the sandwich over and cook the other side for around 3 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted. If the sandwich is browning too quickly, remove it from the stove to cool down a bit and lower the heat.

Once the sandwich is cooked to your liking, transfer it to a cutting board and cut it in half in one swift motion. Then, you're ready to devour your freshly reheated grilled cheese sandwich!

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Reheating in a toaster oven

Reheating leftover grilled cheese sandwiches in a toaster oven is a convenient way to revive your meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. This method is especially useful for busy people who want a quick snack or meal. Here is a detailed guide on how to reheat your leftover grilled cheese sandwiches in a toaster oven:

First, set your toaster oven to bake at 350°F. There is no need to preheat the toaster oven, as its small size allows it to heat up quickly. While you're waiting for it to heat up, take your leftover grilled cheese sandwich out of the refrigerator. It is best to use the sandwich within a day or two of storing it, to ensure it is still fresh.

Once the toaster oven is ready, place the sandwich directly on the rack. For the best results, leave the sandwich to bake for about 10 minutes, flipping it halfway through to ensure even heating. This method will give your sandwich a crispy exterior, but it may be slightly drier than the original grilled version. The cheese might not melt completely, but this is a quick and easy way to enjoy your leftovers.

The toaster oven method is a convenient choice for those short on time, as it requires minimal preparation and cleanup. It is also a safer option than pan-frying, as it does not require monitoring to prevent burning. This makes it a great option for parents who want to teach their kids an easy way to reheat food.

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Making a grilled cheese pizza sandwich

There are many ways to reheat leftover grilled cheese sandwiches, such as grilling them in a pan again, baking them in a toaster oven, or toasting them in a toaster oven. However, a fun way to use your leftover grilled cheese sandwiches is to turn them into pizza grilled cheese sandwiches.

To make a pizza grilled cheese sandwich, you will need two slices of thick, soft bread, such as Artesano Bread or sourdough. Butter each slice of bread on one side and layer on the toppings. Start with a slice of mozzarella cheese, then add your desired amount of pepperoni, and another slice of mozzarella. You can also add other meats, vegetables, or spices, such as Genoa salami, bacon, caramelized onions, olives, peppers, or mushrooms. Get creative and add your favorite pizza toppings!

Once you have added your desired toppings, place the second slice of bread on top, with the buttered side facing outwards. Preheat a non-stick pan over medium heat and place the sandwich in the pan, butter side down. Grill the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If you want to get the crispy pepperoni bits that everyone loves on pizza, remove the sandwich once it's golden brown and place a few slices of pepperoni and some mozzarella directly into the pan. Put the sandwich back on top and let it cook until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.

Once your sandwich is ready, you can cut it into squares for entertaining, or serve it with some veggie chips and ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy your pizza grilled cheese!

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Making a grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich

While there are many ways to reheat leftover grilled cheese sandwiches, such as grilling them in a pan, baking them in a toaster oven, or toasting them, you can also get creative and turn them into something new and tasty. One such option is to repurpose the grilled cheese sandwich into a grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich. Here's how to make it:

Firstly, decide on your preferred type of peanut butter—crunchy or creamy. You can also use soynut butter or another alternative if you prefer or have dietary restrictions. Next, prepare the bananas. You can either slice or mash them. If you're slicing, aim for thin slices, and if you're mashing, aim for a spreadable consistency. You'll need about half a banana per sandwich.

Now it's time to assemble the sandwich. Take two slices of bread—any type will do, but avoid bread that's too thick, too thin, too soft, or too holey. Spread peanut butter on both slices of bread. If you want to be indulgent, you can add a layer of marshmallow fluff on top of the peanut butter, as some believe this was included in Elvis Presley's famous version of this sandwich. Then, place the banana slices or spread the mashed banana on one slice. Finally, press the two slices together firmly.

To cook the sandwich, melt some butter in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. You can also use a sandwich press or toastie maker for convenience, but this may result in squished bread and escaped fillings. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for around 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the filling is warm. If using a sandwich press, follow the manufacturer's instructions for timing.

Once your sandwich is golden and toasty, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. This step is essential if you're packing it for lunch, as it prevents steam from making the bread soggy. Serve it with your favorite snacks, such as fruit, vegetables, or snack bites. Enjoy!

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Making a grilled mac n' cheese sandwich

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a delicious treat, but what about grilled mac and cheese sandwiches? This mouth-watering combination of two classic comfort foods is an indulgent delight. Here is a step-by-step guide to making the ultimate grilled mac and cheese sandwich:

Firstly, choose your cheese. A combination of cheeses works well, such as a 50/50 mix of cheddar and mozzarella. The mozzarella helps to keep the sandwich together and gives that all-important cheese pull, while the cheddar provides a strong flavour. You could also add some grated parmesan for an extra cheesy kick. If you want to keep things simple, just use one type of cheese—any will work!

Next, prepare your macaroni. You can use store-bought mac and cheese, but making it from scratch is recommended. Add some crispy bacon bits to the macaroni for an extra indulgent twist. Warm around 3/4 cup of macaroni in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. Shape the macaroni into a square, roughly the size of your bread, and top with two slices of cheese.

Now it's time to assemble the sandwich. Take two slices of bread—a nice, normal sourdough works well here. You don't want the bread to be too thick, thin, soft, or holey. Spread the outside of the bread with butter, olive oil, or mayonnaise, and sprinkle with salt if desired. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in the skillet. Top with the mac and cheese rectangle, and add two slices of cheese on top. Cover with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.

Finally, it's time to grill. Place a lid on the skillet to help keep the heat in and melt the cheese. Grill the sandwich for around 3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Transfer to a cutting board and cut in half to reveal that glorious cheese pull. Serve immediately and enjoy!

There you have it—a decadent and delicious grilled mac and cheese sandwich. This sandwich is an epic creation that combines two classic comfort foods, perfect for a quick lunch or indulgent snack.

Frequently asked questions

Reheating a grilled cheese sandwich in a pan is considered the best method. First, let the pan get hot at medium-high and put a little butter in the bottom. Put the sandwich in the pan, and place a lid on to help keep the heat in to melt the cheese.

Yes, you can also use a toaster oven or a regular oven. The toaster oven method is more convenient if you're short on time, but the sandwich may turn out drier than the pan-grilled method.

You can turn them into something new and tasty, like a grilled cheese pizza sandwich or a grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich. You can also cook the sandwich in an air fryer at 200°C/390°F for 2-3 minutes per side until crisp and golden.

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