Name: Garlic Butter Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490179H19M49S
Total time: PT-490179H19M49S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or your choice); Butter, softened (approx. ¼ cup / 4 Tbsp); 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or made into a paste; Fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 1 Tbsp); Dried oregano (½ tsp) optional; Cheese(s) – such as cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or a mix (about 1½–2 cups grated / sliced); Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

A rich and indulgent twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich—these sandwiches are layered with gooey, melted cheese between slices of bread slathered in savory garlic-herb butter, then toasted until golden and crispy on the outside and soft and melty inside. It’s comfort food at its finest, with bold flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this sandwich transforms something simple into something spectacular. The garlic butter crisps up the bread to perfection while infusing each bite with herby, garlicky flavor. I usually mix different cheeses for the ultimate melty, stringy goodness. Whether I serve it as a snack, a quick lunch, or a cozy dinner alongside tomato soup, it never fails to hit the spot.

Ingredients

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

4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or my choice)
Butter, softened (approx. ¼ cup / 4 Tbsp)
2 cloves garlic, finely minced or made into a paste
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 1 Tbsp)
Dried oregano (½ tsp), optional
Cheese(s) – such as cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or a mix (about 1½–2 cups grated / sliced)
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

I start by making the garlic butter. I mix the softened butter with the minced garlic (or garlic paste), chopped parsley, oregano if I’m using it, plus a pinch of salt and pepper until it’s all combined.
Next, I divide the cheese between two slices of bread and top them with the remaining two slices to make two sandwiches.
Then, I spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the outsides of both sandwiches—on both the top and bottom slices.
I heat a skillet over medium to medium-low heat and place one sandwich butter-side down. I let it cook for about 3–4 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese starts to melt.
I flip the sandwich carefully, pressing it slightly with a spatula, and cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes until it’s golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Once it’s done, I remove it from the skillet, let it rest for a minute so the cheese settles, and then slice and serve it hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 2 sandwiches
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 18–20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use roasted garlic in the butter for a sweeter, deeper flavor.
Switching up the cheese combo makes a huge difference—sharp cheddar and mozzarella is my favorite pairing.
Adding a slice of tomato or caramelized onions in the middle gives a little twist.
For a spicy kick, I like to sprinkle in some crushed red pepper or add a slice of jalapeño.
When I want to go extra indulgent, I use brioche or focaccia for the bread.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers (rarely!), I wrap the sandwiches in foil and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat until crispy and hot again. Microwaving makes the bread soft, so I always opt for the skillet or even an air fryer if I want to keep that golden crunch.

FAQs

What’s the best cheese combination for grilled cheese?

I like using a blend—sharp cheddar for flavor and mozzarella or Gruyère for that gooey melt. Mixing cheeses really boosts the flavor and texture.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, I can swap fresh garlic with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder if I’m short on time. But fresh garlic gives it a stronger, more vibrant flavor.

How do I keep the bread from burning before the cheese melts?

I cook the sandwich on medium or medium-low heat. That way, the bread toasts slowly while the cheese has time to melt without burning the outside.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I can prep the garlic butter and even assemble the sandwiches in advance. I just keep them wrapped in the fridge and toast them fresh when I’m ready.

What’s a good side to serve with this sandwich?

I love pairing it with tomato soup, a side salad, or even marinara sauce for dipping. It makes the meal feel complete and balances the richness.

Conclusion

This garlic butter grilled cheese sandwich is my go-to comfort food. It’s easy, full of flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m craving something cozy or making a quick meal for guests, it always delivers cheesy satisfaction with crispy, golden perfection.

Garlic Butter Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8‑10 minutes
Total Time: 18‑20 minutes
Yield: 2 sandwiches
Category: Sandwich / Snack
Method: Skillet / Pan‑grilled
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A rich and indulgent twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich—sandwiches layered with gooey cheese, between slices of bread slathered in garlic-herb butter, toasted until golden and crispy on the outside and melted on the inside.

Ingredients

4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or your choice)
Butter, softened (approx. ¼ cup / 4 Tbsp)
2 cloves garlic, finely minced or made into a paste
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 1 Tbsp)
Dried oregano (½ tsp) optional
Cheese(s) – such as cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or a mix (about 1½–2 cups grated / sliced)
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Make garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic (or garlic paste), chopped parsley, dried oregano (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Prepare sandwich: Divide the cheese between two slices of bread, then top with the other two slices to form two sandwiches.
Butter the outsides: Spread the garlic butter generously on the outer faces of each sandwich (both top and bottom slices).
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium to medium‑low heat. Place one sandwich butter‑side down. Cook for about 3‑4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt.
Flip the sandwich carefully, pressing gently, and cook the other side for another 3‑4 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Once done, remove from heat, let sit for 1 minute (this helps the cheese settle), then slice and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

You can use either fresh garlic or roasted garlic for different flavor profiles.
Mixing different cheeses (e.g. sharp cheddar + mozzarella) gives a more interesting melt and flavor.
Cook over moderate heat so the bread toasts without burning while giving the cheese time to melt.
If desired, cover the skillet with a lid briefly after flipping to help the cheese melt through.
Serve with tomato soup, marinara sauce, or a simple green salad for contrast.