Copycat Street-Style Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Copycat Street-Style Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Find the ultimate copycat street-style grilled cheese sandwich recipe, inspired by a famous food cart favorite.

🕒 Prep - 10 mins, Cook - 6-8 mins, Total - 16-20 mins
🍽 Servings: 4 sandwiches
🔥 Difficulty: Easy
🌎 Cuisine: American, Street Food

Allergens

Wheat, Dairy, Egg (in butter), Soy (potential in bacon), Nightshade (jalapeño)

Ingredients

  • 8 slices of thick
  • cut Texas toast bread
  • 16 slices of sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 slices of cooked bacon
  • 2 large jalapeños, thinly sliced
  • 1 stick of unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Lay out four slices of bread on your work surface. Top each with 4 slices of cheddar cheese, followed by 2 slices of bacon and a generous layer of jalapeño slices. Place the remaining four slices of bread on top to form a sandwich.
  3. Spread the seasoned butter mixture evenly onto the outer sides of each sandwich.
  4. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, add the sandwiches and cook for 2 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Press down gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the bread become crispy.
  5. Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before slicing and serving.

Chef’s Insight

For an extra smoky flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke to the seasoned butter mixture.

Notes

The key to success with this recipe is using thick-cut bread and ensuring the cheese is fully melted and gooey.

Cultural or Historical Background

This dish is inspired by the classic American street food, the grilled cheese sandwich, and takes cues from various regional styles.