Sometimes, the best comfort foods are born when you combine two favorites—like garlic bread and grilled cheese. This garlic bread grilled cheese recipe brings together buttery, crispy bread with a rich garlic kick and gooey, melty cheese. It’s quick to make, totally beginner-friendly, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a midnight snack. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll transform a humble sandwich into something bold and unforgettable. One bite in, and you’ll understand why this garlic bread grilled cheese deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Adore This Recipe
This isn’t just any grilled cheese. Garlic bread grilled cheese is the perfect balance of buttery crunch and cheesy goodness. Here’s why you’ll crave it again and again:
- Big on Flavor: Garlic powder and parsley make each bite taste like your favorite side dish.
- Super Easy: Only six ingredients and 15 minutes from prep to plate.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses bread, cheese, and butter—no special shopping trips needed.
- Kid & Adult Approved: A total win for picky eaters and comfort food lovers alike.
A Brief History Behind Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
This crave-worthy combo isn’t as new as it seems. Here are a few fun facts:
- Garlic bread stems from ancient Roman traditions of rubbing garlic and oil on toasted bread.
- Grilled cheese became a household staple in the U.S. during the 1920s and soared in popularity during the Great Depression.
- The garlic bread grilled cheese trend took off through online food hacks, combining two nostalgic classics into one craveable dish.
- Today, it’s a viral favorite for good reason—quick, comforting, and full of flavor.
Key Ingredients in Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
- Butter: Softened for easy mixing and spreading, this gives the bread its golden crisp.
- Garlic Powder: Adds that unmistakable garlic bread flavor without the hassle of peeling fresh garlic.
- Dried Parsley: Provides color and a subtle herbiness that mimics restaurant-style garlic bread.
- Bread: Any bread works, but thicker slices hold the cheese and crisp up beautifully.
- Shredded Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese: A melty, flavorful blend that stretches just right.
How to Make Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
- Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix until smooth and evenly combined. - Spread on Bread
Take four slices of bread and generously spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice—don’t forget the edges! - Assemble the Sandwiches
Place two slices butter-side down. Sprinkle half of the cheese evenly over each slice. Top with the remaining bread, butter-side up. - Preheat the Skillet
Warm a large skillet over low heat—this gives the bread time to crisp up without burning while the cheese melts. - Grill the First Side
Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden and crispy. - Flip and Finish
Carefully flip each sandwich and cook another 4–5 minutes. The cheese should be melted, and both sides should be beautifully browned. - Serve Immediately
Remove from the skillet and serve right away while the cheese is warm and gooey.
Tips and Twists
Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a grilled cheese pro, these tips make your garlic bread grilled cheese even better:
Quick Tips:
- Use low heat to ensure the cheese melts before the bread browns too fast.
- Press gently with a spatula to get a crispier crust.
- Let the butter soften fully before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Add a pinch of salt to the butter mix if using unsalted butter.
- Always cook both sandwiches at once if your skillet allows—it saves time!
Flavorful Variations:
- Add Tomato Slices: For a fresh, tangy contrast.
- Spicy Kick: Mix crushed red pepper into the garlic butter.
- Meaty Twist: Layer in some ham or bacon between the cheese.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips for Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
- Storage: Wrap leftovers in foil or keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.
- Reheating: Reheat in a nonstick skillet over low heat until warmed through and crisp again.
- Make-Ahead: Prep the garlic butter and store it in the fridge. Assemble sandwiches up to 1 day in advance, then cook fresh.
What to Serve with Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Looking to round out the meal? Try these tasty sides and pairings:
- Tomato Basil Soup: Classic and comforting, the perfect dipping partner.
- Crispy Roasted Broccoli: Adds texture and nutrients to balance the richness.
- Simple Avocado Toast with Egg: Light and satisfying—great for brunch.
- Iced Peach Tea: A sweet and refreshing drink to cool things down.
- Fruit Salad or Pickles: For a fresh contrast to the melty sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
You can, but it’s stronger. Use one finely minced clove per two tablespoons of butter.
What bread works best?
Sourdough, Texas toast, or Italian bread all hold up well and crisp nicely.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free cheese that melts well.
What if I don’t have parsley?
Skip it, or swap with dried basil or oregano for a herby twist.
Can I air-fry it?
Definitely—cook at 375°F for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway.
Enjoy Your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
There’s no going back after this garlic bread grilled cheese. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with buttery garlic flavor—it’s everything you love in one simple sandwich. Whether it’s your first time making grilled cheese or your hundredth, this recipe makes you feel like a kitchen pro. Give it a try, tweak it to your taste, and share it with someone who could use a little comfort today.
Explore More Recipes
Craving more delicious ideas to pair with your garlic bread grilled cheese? Try these:
- Focaccia Recipe: A fluffy, herby bread to complement your cheesy sandwich.
- Cowboy Caviar: A zesty, fresh dip for a fun appetizer spread.
- Blueberry Cobbler: End your meal with a sweet, fruity dessert.
- Pesto Pasta Salad: A vibrant side that balances the richness of your sandwich.
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, garlic powder, and parsley until smooth.
- Spread the garlic butter on one side of each bread slice, reaching the edges.
- Place two slices butter-side down and sprinkle with cheese.
- Top with remaining bread, butter-side up.
- Heat a skillet over low heat and cook sandwiches 4–5 minutes.
- Flip carefully and cook another 4–5 minutes until golden and melty.
- Remove from pan and serve hot while the cheese is gooey.
Notes
Variation: Add tomato slices or cooked bacon for a twist on classic garlic bread grilled cheese.