Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese

Section: Perfect Side Dishes to Complete Any Meal

This sandwich brings together crisp, garlic-buttered bread and a melty blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a comfort food favorite. Quick to prepare, it features a fragrant garlic butter slathered on bread, which is then filled with cheese and toasted until golden and crisp. Serve warm, paired with soup or salad for a satisfying meal. Easily customize your sandwich with preferred cheeses, or add extras like tomatoes or spinach for a flavorful twist. It's sure to please kids and adults alike, thanks to its gooey texture and savory aroma—the perfect option for busy lunches or casual dinners.

A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Published By Maria
Updated as of Thu, 18 Sep 2025 22:51:38 GMT
A grilled cheese sandwich with garlic bread. Bookmark
A grilled cheese sandwich with garlic bread. | foodbymary.com

Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese is the answer whenever you crave something warm cheesy and comforting but do not want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of garlicky buttered bread grilled until golden and filled with gooey mozzarella and cheddar hits every nostalgic note of classic grilled cheese while bringing extra flavor to the table. Trust me this beauty disappears fast whether I am making a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at lunch.

One bite and you know exactly why my kids beg for this all year long. I first whipped this up on a sick day when no one felt like cooking and now everyone asks for seconds before the plate cools.

Ingredients

  • Softened butter: brings richness and helps crisp up the bread. I use high quality salted butter for best flavor
  • Garlic powder: for efficient garlicky punch. If you have fresh garlic it delivers even bigger taste but the powder is handy and never burns
  • Dried parsley: gives a hint of color and light herb flavor. Look for a bright green shade for freshness
  • Sliced bread: any hearty bread like sourdough or whole wheat works well. Go for a loaf with some chew so the sandwich holds together
  • Mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend: this combo gives the best mix of stretch and sharpness. Buy blocks and shred them yourself if possible for maximum melt
  • Garlic: a little extra minced garlic is amazing if you want full bold flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
Add the softened butter garlic powder and parsley to a small mixing bowl. Stir together with a fork or spoon until everything is evenly combined. This step locks all the flavor into every bite so be thorough and do not rush
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Lay out your bread slices on the counter. Spread a generous layer of garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice reaching right to the edge. Flip two of the slices buttered side down. Cover them with a thick layer of shredded cheese blend all the way to the corners. Top each with the remaining bread slices buttered side facing up for a sealed cheesy pocket
Cook Your Sandwiches:
Heat a skillet over low heat no higher or you risk burning the bread before the cheese gets gooey. Place your sandwiches in the pan and cook for about four to five minutes until the bottoms are a deep golden brown. Use a spatula to flip gently then cook the other side the same way. For the perfect melt press down lightly on each sandwich with your spatula but not so hard the cheese squeezes out
Serve:
Lift the grilled cheese sandwiches onto a cutting board and let them rest for thirty seconds before slicing. This quick pause helps keep all the molten cheese inside. Slice in half if desired then serve right away while the cheese pulls are dreamy
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with garlic bread. Bookmark
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with garlic bread. | foodbymary.com

The way the garlic butter seeps into the bread while it cooks brings back childhood memories for me standing on a chair next to my grandma and sneaking pieces of melting cheese. My favorite part is how you can taste both the rich cheese and the savory garlicky crunch with every single bite.

How to Store Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese

Let your sandwiches cool completely before storing to avoid soggy bread. Wrap each one in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze for longer storage wrap tightly then place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge or toast straight from frozen for a crispy finish.

Ingredient Swaps and Add Ins

Switch up the cheese by using gouda provolone or pepper jack for a spicy twist. Add sliced tomatoes sautéed mushrooms or cooked bacon between the cheese layers to make it your own. If you prefer an herby kick sprinkle in chopped chives or basil with the butter.

Serving Suggestions

Classic tomato soup is a total winner for dipping and soaking up melted cheese. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or even a simple bowl of pickles can cut through the richness for balance. For more kid fun try serving with sweet potato fries or crunchy veggie sticks.

Cultural Context

Grilled cheese sandwiches are an American staple with roots in Depression era kitchens when cooks got creative with what was available. Garlic bread itself has Italian American origins and marrying the two creates an old school comfort food that has universal appeal. This dish is an easy upgrade for any time you want familiar flavors with just a little more love.

A slice of grilled cheese with garlic bread. Bookmark
A slice of grilled cheese with garlic bread. | foodbymary.com

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of bread is best for this sandwich?

Thick slices such as sourdough or artisan breads work best, providing structure and flavor while toasting evenly.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Try a mix of cheeses like gouda, provolone, or Swiss along with mozzarella and cheddar for enhanced flavor.

→ How can I make the sandwich extra crispy?

Cook over low heat and press lightly with a spatula as it grills. Thick bread and generous butter also contribute to crispiness.

→ Are there ways to customize the filling?

Yes! Add extras such as sliced tomatoes, spinach, cooked chicken, or turkey for a unique sandwich experience.

→ What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Classic pairings include tomato soup, mixed greens, French fries, pickles, or a simple coleslaw to complement the rich flavors.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, wrap in plastic or airtight containers, and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese

Crispy garlic bread and melty cheese combine for a comforting, savory sandwich that's ready in minutes.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cooking Time
10 minutes
Complete Time
15 minutes
Published By: Maria

Recipe Category: Side Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Total Portions: 2 Serves How Many (2 sandwiches)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly

Required Ingredients

→ Garlic Butter Mixture

01 30 grams unsalted butter, softened
02 4 grams garlic powder
03 1 gram dried parsley

→ Sandwich Assembly

04 4 slices bread (preferably sourdough or artisan)
05 110 grams shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Place softened butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley in a bowl and thoroughly mix until fully combined.

Step 02

Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over one side of each bread slice.

Step 03

Turn two slices butter side down, distribute the shredded cheese evenly over them, and top with the remaining bread, butter side up.

Step 04

Place assembled sandwiches in a skillet over low heat. Cook for 4–5 minutes, or until the underside is golden brown. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook the opposite side for another 4–5 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.

Step 05

Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board, let rest for a minute, slice as desired, and serve immediately while hot.

Handy Cooking Tips

  1. Cooking on low heat prevents burning and allows cheese to melt thoroughly for an evenly crisp texture.
  2. Use high-quality bread and fresh cheese for best flavor and structure.
  3. Garlic butter should be spread generously to ensure robust flavor throughout.
  4. Allow the sandwich to rest briefly after cooking to keep the melted cheese contained when slicing.

Necessary Kitchen Tools

  • Skillet or sauté pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Butter knife

Allergy Details

Always check ingredient packaging for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional when in doubt.
  • Contains milk and dairy products.
  • Contains gluten from bread.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These nutrition details are for guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 475
  • Fat: 28 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 38 grams
  • Proteins: 18 grams