Save The first time I made this grilled cheese was on a rainy afternoon when I was craving something fancy but comforting. I had a log of goat cheese languishing in the fridge and half a loaf of sourdough from the weekend farmers market. Something about the combination of tangy cheese and sweet honey just made sense in my head, even though I had never tried it before.
My roommate walked into the kitchen while I was flipping the sandwiches and immediately asked what smelled so incredible. We ended up eating them standing at the counter, burning our fingers on the molten cheese because we could not wait another second. That afternoon became our regular grilled cheese tradition whenever either of us needed a pick me up.
Ingredients
- 4 oz soft goat cheese: Room temperature cheese spreads smoothly and melts evenly without lumps
- 2 oz cream cheese: This tames the tanginess of goat cheese while creating an incredibly creamy texture
- 4 slices sourdough bread: Sturdy bread holds up to the hearty filling and develops a beautiful crunch
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Softened butter spreads easily and creates that golden crisp exterior we all want
- 2 tbsp honey: Honey adds sweetness but also helps the cheese brown beautifully in the pan
- 1 tsp crushed red chili flakes: A little heat cuts through the rich cheese and keeps every bite interesting
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the honey
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth that complements the chili flakes perfectly
Instructions
- Blend the cheeses:
- Mash the goat cheese and cream cheese together in a small bowl until completely smooth and no lumps remain
- Season the filling:
- Stir in the honey, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper, then taste and adjust the sweetness or heat to your liking
- Prep the bread:
- Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice, then flip them and divide the cheese mixture between two slices
- Build the sandwiches:
- Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out, and press down gently to adhere
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook in a hot skillet for 3 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is completely melted
- Finish and serve:
- Let the sandwiches rest for a minute before slicing, then drizzle with extra honey and sprinkle with more chili flakes
Save This recipe became my go to when I hosted book club because it felt impressive yet required zero stress. Everyone always asked for the recipe, and I loved sharing how something so simple could taste so extraordinary. There is something special about serving comfort food that feels elevated.
Making It Your Own
I have discovered that thin slices of pear or apple add wonderful texture and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy cheese. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary make the sandwiches feel even more special, especially when serving guests. A handful of arugula tucked inside adds a peppery bite that cuts through the richness.
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread you choose makes or breaks this sandwich. Sourdough is my absolute favorite because its tang complements the goat cheese while its sturdy structure holds up to the generous filling. Country bread or ciabatta work beautifully too, but avoid soft sandwich bread that will turn soggy.
Perfect Pairings
A simple green salad with bright vinaigrette balances the richness of the grilled cheese perfectly. Tomato soup is classic for a reason, the acidity cuts through all that creamy cheese. I also love serving this with a mug of butternut squash soup on cold days.
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy cheese
- Hot apple cider feels cozy and echoes the honey notes in the sandwich
- A light green salad with apple cider vinaigrette keeps the meal from feeling too heavy
Save This grilled cheese has become my ultimate comfort food, perfect for lazy weekends or quick weeknight dinners. I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought me over the years.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of bread is best for this grilled sandwich?
Sourdough or a sturdy country bread is highly recommended. Their robust texture holds up well to the filling and toasts beautifully, creating a wonderfully crisp crust.
- → Can I adjust the level of sweetness or spice?
Absolutely! The amount of honey and chili flakes can be tailored to your preference. Add more honey for extra sweetness or increase the chili flakes for a stronger kick.
- → What makes the cheese filling so creamy?
The combination of soft goat cheese (chèvre) with optional cream cheese creates an incredibly smooth and luscious filling. The cream cheese also helps to mellow the goat cheese's tang.
- → What are some good additions to this grilled creation?
Consider adding thinly sliced ripe pear, apple, or fresh figs for extra sweetness and texture. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a handful of baby arugula, also make excellent additions.
- → How can I ensure my grilled sandwich is perfectly golden and crisp?
Preheating your skillet over medium heat is key. Spreading softened butter evenly on the outside of the bread and toasting for 3-5 minutes per side, pressing gently, will achieve that ideal golden-brown crispness.
- → What can I serve alongside this for a complete meal?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup would perfectly complement the rich flavors of this grilled sandwich.