Golden, buttery slices of bread hugging a gooey, garlicky cheese center – garlic grilled cheese is everything you want in a comfort food, but with a bold, savory upgrade. With crisp edges and a flavor-packed interior, this grilled sandwich takes a humble classic and elevates it to crave-worthy status. Whether you’re dipping it into soup or enjoying it solo, this one is hard to beat.


Imagine warm, melted cheese intertwined with hints of roasted garlic, pressed between two slices of crispy sourdough. The aroma alone will have everyone circling the kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly satisfying. If you thought grilled cheese was just for kids, this sophisticated version will absolutely change your mind.
What Kind of Bread and Cheese Work Best?
For ultimate flavor and texture, go with sourdough or rustic white bread – thick enough to hold up to the buttery skillet treatment. The cheese? A combo of sharp white cheddar and mozzarella creates that classic stretch with depth of flavor. You can also toss in a bit of parmesan for extra savory notes.
Ingredients for the Garlic Grilled Cheese
Sourdough Bread – This holds its structure and gives the sandwich a hearty crunch without getting soggy.
Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully and delivers that signature cheesy pull.
White Cheddar Cheese – Adds sharpness and tang to balance the richness.
Unsalted Butter – Needed for that crisp, golden crust.
Garlic Powder or Roasted Garlic Paste – Infuses each bite with warm, aromatic garlic flavor.
Chopped Fresh Parsley (Optional) – Brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of color.
How To Make the Garlic Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Prep the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic powder or roasted garlic paste. If you like a little punch, add a pinch of salt and some chopped parsley.
Step 2: Butter the Bread
Spread your garlic butter generously on one side of each slice of bread. This will be the side that hits the skillet.
Step 3: Layer the Cheese
Place a slice of bread, buttered side down, on a heated skillet. Add a layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Top it with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Cook over medium heat until the bottom is deeply golden brown, then flip and grill the other side. Press gently with a spatula for even crisping. Total cook time is about 3–5 minutes per side.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Remove from the pan, let sit for a minute, then slice and serve while the cheese is still molten.

Best Way to Serve and Store Garlic Grilled Cheese
Garlic grilled cheese is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the skillet. If you must store leftovers, let the sandwich cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to bring back that crispiness – avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy.
What to Serve With Garlic Grilled Cheese?
Tomato Basil Soup
A creamy, tangy classic that’s practically made for dipping.
Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
Turn your sandwich into a bold dinner plate with this spicy, buttery seafood dish. Try it here
Parmesan Baked Potatoes
These crispy, cheesy potatoes are a hearty, satisfying side. See recipe
Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup
Double down on the garlic love with this silky, flavorful soup. Get the recipe
Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes
Sweet, earthy, and perfectly seasoned to balance the richness of the grilled cheese. Find it here
Want More Sandwich Ideas with Flavor?
If you love this garlic grilled cheese, check out more sandwich-forward favorites:
- Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes with a rich, cheesy twist.
- Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole that wraps flavor and comfort in every bite.
- Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a pasta take on those garlicky vibes.
- Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken that’s great for sliders and sandwiches.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this cheesy classic to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s always ready when the craving hits.
Tried it with smoked gouda or added bacon? Tell us how it went – we love hearing your twists!
Need more inspiration? Check out what I’m cooking daily on Savor Queen Pinterest. Your next flavor obsession might be waiting there.
Garlic Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Looking for the ultimate comfort food upgrade? This Garlic Grilled Cheese is everything: crispy golden sourdough, buttery garlic spread, and a molten medley of mozzarella and sharp white cheddar. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for a quick lunch, cozy dinner, or savory snack. Whether you’re after quick breakfast ideas, easy dinner wins, or food ideas for busy days, this easy recipe belongs in your go-to meal rotation.
Ingredients
2 slices sourdough bread
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1/2 teaspoon roasted garlic paste
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic powder or roasted garlic paste. Stir in parsley if using.
2. Spread garlic butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one bread slice, butter side down, in the pan.
4. Top with mozzarella and cheddar. Place second bread slice on top, butter side up.
5. Grill for 3–5 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden and cheese is melted.
6. Remove, let sit 1 minute, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
Use day-old bread for a crispier finish.
Combine cheeses for best melt and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: grilled cheese, garlic grilled cheese, quick lunch, easy recipe, comfort food
