Grilled cheese sandwich

This simple sandwich is a good idea at any time of day, whether it's a tummy-warming breakfast, quick lunch or comforting teatime snack, the gooey cheese and crisp, buttery bread make this the ultimate toastie. Despite the name, it's cooked in a frying pan or griddle pan.

15 minutes prep. time
4–6 minutes cooking time
Serves 1
Pies & savoury treats, Vegetarian

Four grilled cheese sandwich halves: crisp, golden bread sandwiched with melting cheese — Deliciously gooey, a grilled cheese sandwich hits the spot | © National Trust Images/William Shaw

2 slices bread
100g Cheddar cheese, grated
50g butter

Add a little extra

Add some herbs, garlic mushrooms or roasted tomatoes, for extra texture. Infuse the butter with garlic, or fresh herbs such as rosemary or oregano, for extra flavour.

Step 1

Lay one slice of bread on a board and sprinkle evenly with the cheese. If you have some mozzarella, mix that with the Cheddar for extra flavour and gooiness. Top with the remaining slice of bread and press down firmly.

Step 2

Melt the butter in a pan. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the top of the sandwich with melted butter.

Step 3

Place a heavy-based frying pan or griddle on medium and allow to heat up.

Step 4

Carefully lift the sandwich and place into the hot pan, buttered side down. Press down firmly with a spatula or masher to get the bread evenly crisp, and melt the cheese evenly. Leave to cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the underside is crisp and golden.