The Simple Trick for the Most Flavorful Grilled Cheese

I’m obsessed with grilled cheese. When I was growing up, my mom would make it on special occasions, when I was sick, or when I needed a “cheering up.” There’s just something so comforting about biting into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown grilled cheese. My mom’s grilled cheese sandwiches were always buttery and crispy on the outside with gooey cheese inside (the dream!). I thought her secret to a perfectly crispy grilled cheese was adding a layer of mayo to the outside of the bread slices. However, recently she let me in on her real trick: She uses spiced butter.

Using spiced butter to make your grilled cheese sandwich adds a layer of complex, aromatic flavor that mayonnaise simply can’t replicate. By blending spices into the butter before spreading it, you ensure that every bite is packed with warmth and depth. Moreover, as the spiced butter toasts, it creates a fragrant, crispy crust that balances the richness of the melted cheese rather than just adding heaviness.

What I love about using spiced butter is that it’s super simple to make. Here are the steps I usually follow to make two grilled cheese sandwiches: 

1. Take three tablespoons of unsalted butter in a bowl (three of the marked lines on a standard stick) and soften it to room temperature. This makes sure that the spices distribute evenly without clumping.
2. Mix in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove garlic (finely minced), 1/2 teaspoon thyme, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, and a pinch of red chile flakes for a subtle kick. 
3. Add a pinch of kosher salt (only if you’re using unsalted butter) and a crack of black pepper.
4. Combine everything together using a fork until the butter is a uniform, speckled hue.
5. Generously coat the outside of your bread slices with the mixture before placing them in the pan. 
6. Follow this easy recipe to finish making your grilled cheese. 

After making grilled cheese with spiced butter several times, I have learned that there are a few things to keep in mind, which include: 

• Always remember that spices burn faster than plain butter. Cook over medium-low heat to give the cheese enough time to melt while your spiced butter toasts perfectly without turning bitter.
• Have fun and experiment with your spice combinations! I’ve tried a number of different combinations. My other favorites include smoked paprika with cumin, and thyme with lemon zest. You could also try this delicious grilled cheese butter recipe! 
• For even more depth of flavor, spread a thin layer of the spiced butter on the inside of your bread slices before adding the cheese. This brings in an additional layer of seasoned goodness that fuses with the melty cheese. Yum!