Cracker Barrel Grilled Cheese
This Cracker Barrel-inspired grilled cheese recipe brings the classic comfort food into your kitchen. With thick, buttery bread and gooey, melty cheddar cheese, this sandwich is perfectly crispy on the outside and irresistible on the inside. It’s a simple, delicious meal that works for any time of day—whether you’re craving a quick snack or a satisfying lunch. Pair it with a bowl of tomato soup or some crispy chips for the ultimate comfort meal.
Equipment
- 1 non-stick skillet or griddle (Medium-sized, 10-12 inches)
- 1 butter knife (for spreading butter)
- 1 spatula (for flipping the sandwich)
- 1 cutting board (for slicing the sandwich)
- 1 sharp knife (for cutting the sandwich)
Ingredients
- 4 slices bread white, sourdough, or whole wheat
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 4 slices cheddar cheese mild or sharp
- Optional garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon or onion powder (1/4 teaspoon) for seasoning
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the bread to an even thickness and set aside. If you’re using a block of cheddar, slice it into 4 even pieces or tear it into small chunks for easier melting.
Butter the Bread
- Spread 1 tablespoon of butter on one side of each bread slice. If you're using garlic powder or onion powder, sprinkle it over the buttered bread to add flavor.
Assemble the Sandwich
- Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Layer two slices of cheddar cheese on top. Add the second slice of bread, buttered side facing up. Gently press the sandwich together.
Grill the Sandwich
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the sandwich in the skillet. Grill for about 3-4 minutes, until the bread is golden brown. Flip the sandwich and grill the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes, pressing down gently with the spatula for even grilling.
Serve
- Remove the sandwich from the skillet and place it on a cutting board.Let it rest for a minute, then slice it in half. Serve hot with your favorite soup, chips, or pickles.
Notes
- Bread Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of bread, like sourdough or whole wheat, for a more complex flavor.
- Cheese Variations: You can mix cheddar with mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different taste.
- Grilling Tip: Use low to medium heat to prevent burning the bread while ensuring the cheese melts perfectly.
- Extra Flavor: Try adding a dash of garlic powder or onion powder to the butter for extra flavor on the crust.
- Vegan Version: For a dairy-free version, substitute non-dairy butter and vegan cheese.