Crispy Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich

This crispy bacon grilled cheese sandwich is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, offering layers of gooey cheese wrapped in savory bacon. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, this sandwich is easy to make yet bursting with flavor. Imagine biting into a crunchy bacon layer that gives way to melted cheese and fresh vegetables of your choice. It's simple, satisfying, and can be tailored to your taste preferences, whether you like it cheesy, meaty, or loaded with veggies. You can use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to add complexity to the flavor. Adding a hint of spicy mustard or using garlic butter can elevate the taste even further. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Cooking it on a low flame ensures that the cheese melts perfectly while the bacon crisps just right. You'll love the contrast of textures and flavors in this sandwich. Enjoy it as a standalone treat or pair it with a light soup or salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 slices of bread
1-2 teaspoons of cream cheese (optional)
4 slices of cheese
4-6 slices of bacon
Vegetables of choice (lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, etc.)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on one side of each bread slice. This adds a creamy texture but can be skipped if desired.
Add Cheese: Place two slices of cheese on top of each bread slice. You can also use mozzarella or other cheeses depending on your preference.
Vegetable Layer (Optional): Add slices of tomatoes, pickles, or lettuce on top of the cheese for an extra crunch and freshness.
Assemble the Sandwich: Press the two prepared bread slices together, keeping the cheese and vegetables in the middle.
Wrap in Bacon: Carefully wrap the entire sandwich with bacon slices, ensuring all sides are covered. This helps secure the contents and adds a delicious bacon flavor.
Secure the Bacon: Ensure the bacon is neatly wrapped on all sides to prevent it from unwrapping during cooking.
Heat the Pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat for a minute or two until it's evenly heated.
Cook the Sandwich: Place the bacon-wrapped sandwich in the skillet and let it cook for a few minutes on one side. Rotate it occasionally to ensure the bacon cooks evenly and becomes golden brown and crispy.
Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low to prevent burning the bacon while allowing the cheese inside to melt thoroughly.
Flip Carefully: Use a spatula to gently flip the sandwich, making sure the bacon remains intact.
Check for Doneness: Continue to cook, occasionally checking to ensure that the bacon is crisp and the cheese is melted.
Final Cooking: Once the bacon is crispy and cheese is gooey, remove the sandwich from heat.
Cool Slightly: Allow it to cool for a minute or two. This helps the cheese inside settle a bit.
Slice and Serve: Cut the sandwich diagonally for easy handling and enjoy the melted cheesy goodness within.
Serve with Side Dish: It's excellent with a bowl of soup or a side salad.

Tips

Substitute Cream Cheese: You can use garlic butter instead of cream cheese for extra flavor.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or pepper jack.
Bacon Crispiness: For crispier bacon, increase the skillet temperature slightly for the last couple of minutes of cooking.
Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with grilled aubergine slices for a vegetarian version.

Nutrition

Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fats: 36g
Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb Flavoring: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant note.
Low-Carb Option: Use gluten-free or low-carb bread to fit dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad or a warm bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.
Pair with a light fruit smoothie or freshly squeezed juice.

Best Places

Melt Bar & Grilled - Specializing in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches using quality ingredients. Location: 14718 Detroit Ave, Lakewood, USA.
Cheese Grille - A popular spot offering unique cheese sandwiches and sides. Location: 188 Allen St, New York, USA.
Bacon Brothers Public House - Known for artisanal sandwiches with premium bacon. Location: 3620 Pelham Rd, Greenville, USA.
Little Goat Diner - Offers innovative takes on classic sandwiches. Location: 820 W Randolph St, Chicago, USA.
Le Pain Quotidien - A cozy spot with fresh ingredients and unique twists on traditional recipes. Location: 20 Broad St, New York, USA.
Mousetrap - Famous for its gourmet grilled cheese and bacon options. Location: 5605 Creedmoor Rd, Raleigh, USA.
Toastface Grillah - A trendy café known for its cheesy sandwiches and coffee. Location: 149 Roe St, Perth, Australia.
Grill My Cheese - A hotspot for diverse cheese sandwich combinations. Location: Leather Lane Market, London, UK.
Cheesy Does It - Offers both traditional and inventive grilled cheese options. Location: 445 N Union Station Dr, Los Angeles, USA.
The Cheese Truck - A food truck delivering classic and creative cheese dishes. Location: Various locations, London, UK.