The Best Grown Up Grilled Cheese

This Sourdough Grilled Cheese Sandwich is the grown up version of your childhood favorite. My recipe takes the classic grilled cheese to the next level with two types of cheese, lots fresh herbs, and spicy Calabrian chili peppers for the perfect cheesy, herby, spicy bite.

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Why You’ll LOVE This Grown Up Grilled Cheese Recipe

Ok, I’m sure you’ve had grilled cheese, but I’m almost positive you’ve never had grilled cheese like this before! This is my grown-up, adult grilled cheese, that’s packed with extra flavor but has still has that crispy, gooey texture you know and love form a grilled cheese.

Watch: How to Make This Sourdough Grilled Cheese Sandwich

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Sourdough Bread Grilled Cheese Ingredients

Cheese: I prefer to use a combination of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Muenster or Monterrey jack cheese for the ultimate cheesy flavor and melty, gooey texture. 

Aromatics: fresh basil leaves, fresh parsley leaves, and green onions add so much flavor to this grilled cheese. The combination of fresh herbs really take the sandwich to the next level.

Sourdough Bread: use thick slices of fluffy sourdough bread.

Calabrian Chili Peppers: these are small red peppers that are smoky, fruity, and spicy, and add SO much flavor.

Unsalted Butter: a must for any good grilled cheese! 

Ingredient Variations and Additions 

• Cheese– feel free to add to or swap out the cheese with any variety you like best. Shredded gouda, gruyère, mozzarella, and Swiss are all great options.
• Bread – not a fan of sourdough? Use any bread you prefer. Or, opt for a gluten-free variety if you need to keep this grown-up grilled cheese gluten-free. 
• Veggies – add to the chilis with spinach, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or sliced tomatoes. 
• Fruit – trust me on this! Thinly sliced apples pair fabulously with the savoriness of the cheese. 
• Protein – use leftover honey glazed ham, roasted spatchcock turkey, or sliced roasted chicken for a boost of protein. 

How to Make a Sourdough Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Step One: Add the shredded cheeses and herbs to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Use your fingers or a spoon to toss until the ingredients are well combined. 

Step Two: Assemble the sandwiches. To do so, spread your desired amount of chopped Calabrian chili peppers on the inside of each slice of bread. Top one slice with half of the cheese and herb mixture. Then, place the remaining slice of bread (chili pepper side down) on top. Repeat the process to prepare the second sandwich. 

Step Three: Next, heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salted butter, letting it melt. 

Step Four: Place your sandwiches in the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes, pressing the sandwiches down slightly until the bottoms are golden brown and crisp. Flip, and cook on the other side for an additional 1-3 minutes or until golden. 

Step Five: Once the sandwiches are golden and the cheese is melted, remove the sandwiches from the pan. Then, slice in half, and serve warm!

Tips and Tricks 

• Allow the pan to get nice and hot. This helps the bread crisp up quickly and prevents too much butter from soaking in, which will cause your sourdough grilled cheese sandwich to become soggy. 
• Grate the cheese yourself for the best taste and texture. Pre-shredded cheese contain anti-caking agents that impact their flavor and prevent it from melting well.
• Reduce the heat if your bread starts to brown too quickly. This will help to avoid any dark brown or black spots and ensure you have a golden brown sandwich with the cheese fully melted.
• Add more cheese if needed. Depending on the size of your bread, you may need a bit more to fully cover each slice. 

Serving Suggestions 

This recipe can easily be served as a complete meal on its own. However, you can never go wrong with the classic grilled cheese and tomato basil soup combo! 

Or, if you’re looking for more pairing options, some of my favorites include: 

• Italian White Bean and Sausage Soup
• Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
• Italian Chopped Salad
• Honey Mustard Kale Salad
• Mom’s Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

More Comfort Food Recipes 

• Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits
• Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese
• The Best Dutch Oven Pot Roast
• Healthy Homemade Chicken Nuggets
• Skillet Cornbread Chili Pie 
• Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup

I hope you give this Sourdough Grilled Cheese Sandwich a try! It’s packed with flavor and quick to make. If you do give this recipe a try, I want to know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @allthehealthythings on INSTAGRAM. Your reviews help support All the Healthy Things and make it possible for me to continue to create the recipes you know and love.

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Recipe by: Ashlea Carver / All the Healthy Things | Photography by: Eat Love Eat