Cheese and Bacon Sandwich
Crispy, smoky bacon and gooey, melted cheese are sandwiched between two slices of golden, buttery toasted bread. It's the ultimate comfort food, ready in under 20 minutes and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the Bacon
- b.Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer in a large, cold skillet.
- c.Place the skillet over medium heat and cook, turning occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until the bacon is brown and crispy to your liking.
- d.Using tongs, transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the Sandwiches
- b.Lay out the 8 slices of bread on a clean work surface.
- c.Evenly spread the softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will be the outside of the sandwich.
- d.Flip 4 of the slices over (buttered-side down). On the unbuttered side, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise, if using.
- e.On top of the mayonnaise, layer 2 slices of cheddar cheese, then break 3 slices of crispy bacon to fit on each sandwich.
- f.Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper.
- g.Place the remaining 4 slices of bread on top, buttered-side up.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grill the Sandwiches
- b.Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. A lower heat is key to melting the cheese without burning the bread.
- c.Carefully place 1 or 2 sandwiches in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- d.Grill for 3-5 minutes per side. The bread should be a deep golden brown and the cheese should be fully melted and gooey.
- e.For an even better melt, you can cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two while grilling.
- f.Press down gently with a spatula a few times during cooking for an even crust.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve and Enjoy
- b.Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for one minute. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
- c.Slice the sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately.
- d.Repeat the grilling process with the remaining sandwiches.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For perfectly flat and crispy bacon, bake it on a wire rack over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- 2Instead of butter, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread. It creates an incredibly golden and crispy crust due to its oil and egg content.
- 3Use a combination of cheeses like sharp cheddar and provolone or Gruyère for a more complex and gooey cheese pull.
- 4Don't press too hard on the sandwich while it's grilling, or the melted cheese will ooze out and burn in the pan.
- 5Always start cooking bacon in a cold pan. This allows the fat to render slowly, resulting in crispier bacon.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add-in
Add a slice of ripe tomato or a few slices of avocado inside the sandwich for extra flavor and creaminess.
Spice it UpSpice it Up
Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce into the mayonnaise, or add a layer of pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Gourmet TwistGourmet Twist
Spread a thin layer of fig jam or apple butter on the inside of the bread for a sweet and savory flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with bacon and cheese.
Different BreadDifferent Bread
Experiment with different types of bread like brioche for a richer flavor, rye for a tangy note, or a sturdy multigrain for added texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Protein
Both cheese and bacon are rich in protein, an essential macronutrient necessary for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Provides Calcium
Cheddar cheese is a significant source of calcium, a mineral that is crucial for developing and maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting nerve and muscle function.
Quick Energy Source
The combination of carbohydrates from the bread and fats from the cheese, bacon, and butter provides a dense source of calories, offering a quick and substantial energy boost.
Frequently asked questions
A single Cheese and Bacon Sandwich, as prepared in this recipe, contains approximately 650-700 calories, depending on the specific brands of bread, cheese, and bacon used.