The Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect Grilled Cheese Sandwich

TLDRLearn the secrets to making the crispiest, crunchiest, and cheesiest grilled cheese sandwich you've ever had. Discover the best bread and cheese to use, the perfect cooking techniques, and why mayonnaise is the secret ingredient. Don't settle for ordinary grilled cheese, master the art of creating the ultimate sandwich.

Key insights

🔥The type of bread used can greatly affect the texture of the grilled cheese sandwich. Look for bread with a tight crumb to achieve a crispy exterior and a non-pasty interior.

🧀The combination of cheeses can elevate the flavor of the grilled cheese sandwich. Use a melty cheese like American cheese and a flavorful cheese like gruyere to achieve the perfect balance.

🔥Controlling the heat is essential to achieving the perfect grilled cheese. Cooking over medium-low heat ensures that the bread doesn't burn before the cheese is fully melted.

🍞Applying mayonnaise to the bread instead of butter creates a superior crust and prevents the sandwich from getting soggy. Mayonnaise also adds a unique tangy flavor to the grilled cheese.

🧂Seasoning the inside of the sandwich with salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor and complements the cheese. Don't be afraid to add a little more salt to bring out the cheese's natural flavors.

Q&A

What type of bread should I use for the grilled cheese sandwich?

It is recommended to use bread with a tight crumb, like a sturdy store-bought loaf, to achieve a crispy exterior and a non-pasty interior.

Why should I use mayonnaise instead of butter?

Mayonnaise creates a superior crust and prevents the sandwich from getting soggy. It also adds a unique tangy flavor to the grilled cheese.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for the sandwich?

It is not recommended to use pre-shredded cheese as it contains additives that prevent it from melting properly. Shredding your own cheese ensures a better melt and flavor.

What cheeses work well together for the grilled cheese?

A combination of a melty cheese like American cheese and a flavorful cheese like gruyere creates the perfect balance of creaminess and taste.

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

Cooking the sandwich over medium-low heat ensures that the bread gets crispy without burning and allows the cheese to fully melt.

Timestamped Summary

00:00In this video, professional chef Frank Proto shares his secrets for making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich.

00:17The type of bread used can greatly affect the texture of the sandwich. Look for bread with a tight crumb to achieve a crispy exterior and a non-pasty interior.

03:39Mayonnaise is the secret ingredient that creates a superior crust and prevents the sandwich from getting soggy. It adds a unique tangy flavor to the grilled cheese.

05:02Shredding your own cheese is recommended for better melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent it from melting properly.

05:43A combination of a melty cheese like American cheese and a flavorful cheese like gruyere creates the perfect balance of creaminess and taste.

06:02Controlling the heat is essential. Cooking over medium-low heat ensures that the bread doesn't burn before the cheese is fully melted.

06:12Seasoning the inside of the sandwich with salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor and complements the cheese.