Name: Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 slices of French baguette, Italian loaf, or thick-cut sandwich bread; 2 tablespoons softened butter; 1 clove minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon jarred); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); Pinch of salt; Pinch of black pepper; 1/2 cup shredded four-cheese blend (cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, etc.); Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

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I’ve combined two of my favorite comfort foods—garlic bread and grilled cheese—into one irresistible sandwich. Crispy garlic-buttered bread with gooey melted cheese in the middle makes every bite a warm, savory delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this sandwich balances crunchy, buttery texture with creamy, melted cheese. The garlic flavor is bold but not overpowering, and it’s versatile enough to enjoy as a quick lunch, satisfying snack, or simple dinner.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sliced bread (French baguette, Italian loaf, or thick-cut sandwich bread)
Softened butter
Minced garlic (fresh or jarred)
Garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt
Black pepper
Four-cheese blend or your favorite cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, etc.)
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Directions

I start by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder if I want more kick.
I spread the mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice.
I preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
I place one slice, buttered-side down, in the pan and pile on a generous amount of cheese.
I top with the second slice, buttered-side up.
I cook until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts melting, about 2–3 minutes.
I carefully flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
I remove the sandwich, let it rest for a minute, then slice in half.
I garnish with chopped parsley or chives if I’m feeling fancy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 grilled cheese and takes about 10–12 minutes from start to finish:

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5–7 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: I sometimes layer on sliced tomatoes, caramelized onions, or spinach for extra flavor.
Cheese options: Swiss, pepper jack, or a sharp white cheddar all work beautifully for different flavor profiles.
Bread types: I love using sourdough for a tangy twist, or herb-infused focaccia for a richer garlic-butter flavor.
Spicy twist: I mix red pepper flakes into the garlic butter or use pepper jack cheese.

Storage/reheating

I like to eat this sandwich fresh, but if I have leftovers:

Refrigerator: I wrap it tightly and store it for up to 2 days.
Reheating: I reheat on a skillet over low-medium heat, flipping occasionally, until it’s warmed through and the bread is crisp again. I avoid the microwave since it makes the bread soggy.

FAQs

How do I prevent the bread from burning?

I cook on a medium-low setting rather than high heat, and I keep a close eye on the sandwich, flipping once the bottom side is golden.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes—I sometimes use garlic powder plus a bit of garlic powder-infused oil. Fresh garlic gives a brighter, richer flavor, though.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I love a combination of melty cheeses: cheddar for flavor, mozzarella for stretch, and provolone for smoothness. You can also use a pre-mixed four-cheese blend.

Can I make this ahead of time for a crowd?

I prep the garlic butter mixture and slice the bread and cheese. When guests arrive, I assemble and cook sandwiches fresh—it only takes a few minutes per sandwich.

Is this sandwich freezer-friendly?

I don’t recommend freezing it fully assembled because reheating later tends to make it soggy. Instead, freeze the garlic butter in portioned tubs and assemble fresh.

Conclusion

I love how this Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe turns a simple sandwich into a flavor-packed treat. It’s easy, quick, and endlessly customizable based on your favorite cheeses or add-ins. I know once you try it, this sandwich will become a go-to comfort food staple in your kitchen too.

Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Yield: 1 sandwich
Category: Lunch
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese combines two comfort food classics into one savory, crispy, and gooey sandwich perfect for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack.

Ingredients

2 slices of French baguette, Italian loaf, or thick-cut sandwich bread
2 tablespoons softened butter
1 clove minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon jarred)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Pinch of salt
Pinch of black pepper
½ cup shredded four-cheese blend (cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, etc.)
Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
Spread the garlic butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
Place one slice of bread, buttered-side down, on the skillet and top with the cheese.
Place the second slice on top, buttered-side up.
Cook for 2–3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt.
Flip carefully and cook for another 2–3 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Remove from the skillet and let rest for a minute.
Slice in half and garnish with parsley or chives if desired.