Cheese lovers adore recipes like this — thick slices of bread stuffed with melted cheese and topped with an extra layer of bubbling, golden cheese that becomes crispy in the oven. What makes these sandwiches special is how the cheese melts inside while the exterior becomes beautifully browned and crunchy. They are easy to prepare, require only a handful of ingredients, and come out exactly as shown in your picture.
Below is the full recipe with detailed steps, tips, variations, and serving ideas.
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Ingredients (for 6 sandwiches)
For the sandwiches
- 12 slices of sandwich bread (white or brioche works best)
- 300 g (about 3 cups) shredded mozzarella
- 150 g (1½ cups) shredded cheddar or Emmental
- 3 tablespoons soft butter (for spreading)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional but recommended for flavor)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
- 1 egg (optional for brushing)
For the cheesy topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
Start by arranging the slices of sandwich bread on a clean surface.
If the edges are thick or very firm, you can trim them off, but this is optional. The bread in the image looks like regular sandwich bread without trimming, giving a rustic appearance.
You will make six sandwiches, so pair the slices in twos.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, mix together:
- Mozzarella
- Cheddar or Emmental
- Garlic powder
- Pepper
- A pinch of salt
This blend creates a beautiful flavor: mozzarella melts smoothly, while cheddar adds richness and a deeper cheese taste. You can add herbs like oregano or parsley if you like, but the classic version keeps it simple.
3. Spread the Bread
On one side of each slice, spread:
- A thin layer of butter
- A thin layer of mayo (optional)
This helps the bread brown evenly and enhances flavor.
If you prefer a lighter version, use only butter or even skip spreading entirely — but using butter results in a more golden, crispy finish, like the sandwiches in your picture.
4. Add the Cheese Filling
Place a generous handful of cheese mixture on top of 6 slices.
Spread it almost to the edges — cheese melts and spreads, but not too far, so covering the surface ensures a full, gooey bite.
Top with the remaining 6 slices of bread to form sandwiches.
Press gently to help the cheese stick and melt evenly later.
5. Add the Cheese Topping
Mix the 1 cup of shredded cheese with the 2 tablespoons of milk or cream.
This mixture helps the cheese melt smoother and prevents it from drying out.
Spread this topping over the top of each sandwich.
Be generous — in the picture, the cheese topping is thick and fully coats the sandwich surface.
6. Bake the Sandwiches
Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Arrange the sandwiches on the tray, leaving a bit of space between them.
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until:
- The cheese on top is fully melted
- The edges of the sandwiches are golden
- The bottom becomes crisp
- The top forms a bubbly, golden crust
If you want them extra browned, turn on the broiler/grill for 1–2 minutes at the end — but watch carefully so the cheese doesn’t burn.
7. Remove and Cool Slightly
Let the sandwiches sit for 2–3 minutes before serving.
This helps the cheese inside thicken slightly, so the sandwiches don’t fall apart when you pick them up.
Now the texture should match the image: golden on top, crunchy edges, and creamy cheese oozing from the middle.
⭐ Serving Ideas
These sandwiches can be served:
- For breakfast with tea or coffee
- As a quick lunch with salad
- As a snack for kids
- As a party appetizer
- With soup (especially tomato soup or cream of mushroom)
- With french fries for a full meal
You can also cut them into triangles or small squares for easy serving.
⭐ Tips for Perfect Cheesy Sandwiches
Use two types of cheese
Combining soft, stretchy cheese (mozzarella) with flavorful cheese (cheddar, Emmental, or Gouda) creates the best result.
Don’t skip the topping
The cheese layer on top is what makes the sandwiches look like the ones in your photo — golden and fully covered.
Use thick bread
Thin slices can become soggy.
Brioche or toasting bread works best.
Bake instead of frying
Baking ensures even heating, better melting, and less oil.
Add cream to the topping
It prevents the cheese from drying and helps it brown nicely.
⭐ Optional Variations
1. Ham & Cheese (Croque-Monsieur Style)
Add 1 slice of ham inside each sandwich.
2. Chicken Melt
Add shredded cooked chicken mixed with a spoon of mayo.
3. Garlic Cheese Toast
Add a garlic-butter spread inside and on top.
4. Herbs & Spices
Add oregano, basil, or chili flakes to the cheese mix.
5. Béchamel Version
Spread 1 tablespoon of béchamel inside for a richer French-style sandwich.
6. Sweet & Savory
Add a bit of honey mustard for a unique flavor contrast.
⭐ Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for 5–6 minutes — they become crispy again.
- Avoid microwaving; it makes them soggy.