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This bacon-loaded grilled cheese sandwich takes the classic comfort food to a whole new level with a Parmesan garlic butter spread that creates the most incredible crispy exterior. Every bite delivers melty cheese and salty bacon surrounded by buttery, garlicky toast that will make your taste buds dance.
I created this recipe during a particularly busy week when my kids were craving something special but I had minimal time. The combination of the Parmesan butter spread with bacon transformed a simple sandwich into what my family now requests every Friday night.
Ingredients
- Butter: softened to room temperature for easy spreading and the best golden crust
- Parmesan cheese: adds a nutty salty dimension that takes this sandwich beyond basic
- Garlic salt: infuses every bite with savory flavor opt for fresh garlic if you have it
- Texas toast: thick slices stand up well to the fillings and get extra crispy
- Bacon: cooked until crispy provides the perfect contrast to the melty cheese
- Cheddar cheese: use a good quality sharp cheddar that melts beautifully
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Parmesan Spread:
- Beat the softened butter in a medium bowl until light and fluffy about 2 minutes. Add the grated Parmesan and garlic salt mixing until completely incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and spreadable with no visible cheese lumps.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Generously spread the Parmesan butter mixture on one side of each slice of Texas toast. Be sure to spread it all the way to the edges for maximum flavor and crispiness. The butter layer should be thick enough to hold the Parmesan but not so thick it slides off.
- Cook to Perfection:
- Place one slice of bread butter side down in a skillet over medium heat. Listen for the gentle sizzle that indicates your heat is just right. Layer with one slice of cheddar followed by 3 to 4 strips of bacon and another slice of cheese. Top with a second piece of bread butter side up.
- Create the Golden Crust:
- Press lightly with a spatula and cook for approximately 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwich using a wide spatula to keep everything together. Cook for another 3 minutes until both sides are crispy and the cheese has fully melted.
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The first time I served these sandwiches at a casual gathering my friend who claims to make the best grilled cheese asked for my secret. The Parmesan butter spread has become my signature ingredient not just for grilled cheese but for elevating simple garlic bread too.
Make Ahead Options
The Parmesan butter mixture can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply let it soften at room temperature for about 20 minutes before using. This makes weeknight dinner prep even faster and allows the garlic flavor to deepen over time.
Tasty Variations
While the classic bacon and cheddar filling is divine this sandwich welcomes creativity. Try adding thinly sliced tomatoes avocado caramelized onions or thinly sliced apples for a sweet contrast. For cheese lovers experiment with combinations like pepper jack and cheddar or gouda and Swiss. The Parmesan butter spread works beautifully with any cheese combination.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty sandwich pairs perfectly with a light side like a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete comfort food experience serve alongside a cup of tomato soup for dipping. During summer months a side of crisp pickle spears and potato chips completes the meal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I achieve perfectly crispy bacon?
Cook the bacon in an even layer in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then drain excess grease on paper towels.
- → What type of bread works best?
Texas toast is ideal for this sandwich due to its thickness and ability to hold the buttery spread.
- → Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, provolone, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
- → How do I prevent the bread from burning?
Cook over medium heat and monitor closely, flipping the sandwich once each side reaches a golden-brown color.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
It's best eaten fresh, but you can prepare the butter mixture and bacon in advance for quicker assembly.