Introduction
A Mushroom and Cheese Grilled Sandwich is a warm, gooey delight that combines the umami flavor of sautéed mushrooms with the richness of melted cheese. The golden, crispy bread adds the perfect texture to the creamy filling, making it a satisfying dish for any time of the day. Whether you enjoy it with a side of soup or on its own, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot!
Ingredients (Quantities)
- Bread: 4 slices (sourdough, whole wheat, or white bread)
- Mushrooms: 1 1/2 cups (200g), sliced (button mushrooms or cremini work well)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (for grilling the bread)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (for sautéing the mushrooms)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon (or dried thyme)
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Cheese: 1 1/2 cups (150g), shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both)
- Cream cheese (optional): 2 tablespoons (for added creaminess)
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Ingredients
- Spinach: A handful of fresh spinach leaves to add some greens to the sandwich
- Onions: Thinly sliced red onions for a bit of sweetness
- Mustard or mayo: For extra flavor when spread on the bread
- Hot sauce: A dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat
Instructions
- Sauté the mushrooms:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the bread:
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- If you prefer, you can also spread a thin layer of mustard or mayo on the non-buttered side for added flavor.
- Assemble the sandwich:
- Place the non-buttered side of the bread down on a clean surface.
- On one slice, layer half of the sautéed mushrooms and spread them out evenly.
- Add a generous amount of shredded cheese (and cream cheese if using) over the mushrooms.
- If you’re adding spinach or onions, layer them on top of the cheese.
- Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing outward.
- Grill the sandwich:
- Heat a clean skillet over medium heat.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Press down gently with a spatula for an extra crispy finish.
- Serve:
- Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute.
- Slice the sandwich in half and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Grilling Tip: Use a heavy pan or press to ensure the sandwich grills evenly and crisply. You can even use a second skillet to weigh down the sandwich for a pressed effect.
- Mushroom Variations: You can mix and match different mushroom varieties like shiitake, portobello, or oyster for a more complex flavor.
- Add a Sauce: If you like a bit of extra flavor, drizzle some balsamic glaze or aioli inside the sandwich before grilling.
Recommendations
- Serve the Mushroom and Cheese Grilled Sandwich with a side of tomato soup or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- This sandwich is also great for breakfast or brunch, served alongside a fried egg.
Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 1 sandwich)
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 4g
This Mushroom and Cheese Grilled Sandwich is a comforting, hearty meal with a deliciously creamy filling and crispy exterior. It’s a perfect choice for a quick lunch, dinner, or snack that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!
