Kimchi Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Print version)

Crispy sourdough filled with tangy kimchi and melted cheese blend

# What you need:

→ Bread

01 - 4 slices sourdough or country-style bread

→ Cheese

02 - 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 2 slices mozzarella cheese

→ Kimchi

04 - 1/2 cup well-drained, chopped kimchi

→ Butter

05 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Optional Add-ins

06 - 1 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste), for extra heat
07 - 1 green onion, finely chopped

# Directions:

01 - Pat the chopped kimchi dry with paper towels to minimize excess moisture. If desired, mix the kimchi with gochujang and green onion for extra flavor.
02 - Lay out the bread slices on a work surface. Butter one side of each slice evenly.
03 - Flip the bread so the unbuttered side is facing up. Place 1 slice of cheddar and 1 slice of mozzarella on two of the slices. Evenly distribute the chopped kimchi over the cheese, then top each with the remaining cheddar slices.
04 - Close the sandwiches with the other two bread slices, buttered side facing out.
05 - Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
06 - Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve hot.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • The kimchi's tanginess perfectly balances the rich, gooey cheese so every bite feels exciting
  • It comes together in under 20 minutes but tastes like something from a fancy lunch spot
  • The combination of crispy sourdough and spicy-savory filling is legitimately addictive
02 -
  • Medium-low heat is your friend here. High heat burns the bread before the cheese has time to melt properly.
  • Letting the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking gives the cheese a moment to set so it doesn't all ooze out when you cut it.
  • Patting the kimchi dry is non-negotiable. I learned this the hard way with a disappointingly soft sandwich.
03 -
  • Mayo instead of butter on the outside creates an even crispier, more golden crust that won't burn as easily
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one. The heat distribution creates the most evenly golden, crispy results

Return