Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

You might not think you really need a recipe for a grilled cheese sandwich, but the technique and the ingredients you choose can make all the difference between a good sandwich and a great sandwich. We wanted to make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich. Here’s what we discovered:

Test Kitchen Discoveries

• Butter the bread, not the pan. Spread melted butter on the exterior of the bread for the most even browning.
• Cook the sandwiches over medium-low heat so that the cheese melts evenly and the bread browns deeply.
• Press the sandwiches down with a cake pan—mimicking a panini press—for the crispest crust.
• Blend sharp-tasting cheddar with smooth-melting Monterey Jack for the best combination of flavor and texture.