Sometimes, you just need a sandwich that wraps you up like a cozy blanket. Enter the Cream Cheese Grilled Cheese—a dreamy, gooey creation that takes your traditional grilled cheese to cheesy new heights. Made with melty cheddar, rich cream cheese, and buttery sourdough sandwich bread, this is more than just lunch. It’s a moment of pure, edible joy.
Whether you’re making a quick bite between meetings or treating yourself on a rainy day, this easy lunch recipe is everything you love about a grilled cheese, with a luscious twist.
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Grilled Cheese
- Combines the tangy richness of cream cheese with sharp cheddar grilled cheese layers.
- Crisp, golden sourdough sandwich slices hold it all together perfectly.
- Takes just minutes to prep and cook.
- Perfectly melty and comforting—every. single. time.
Ingredients
- 8 thick slices of firm bread (e.g., sourdough)
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese
- 5 oz cream cheese (150 g)
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (5 g)
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, 15 g)
- Butter, as needed for spreading
How to Make Cream Cheese Grilled Cheese
- Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, stir together cream cheese, Parmesan, and mayo if using, until smooth.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place 2 slices butter-side-down in a cold non-stick skillet. Top with a slice of cheddar, a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture, and another slice of cheddar. Finish with another slice of bread, butter-side-up.
- Grill to Perfection: Turn the heat to medium and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is gloriously melty.
- Repeat and Serve: While the first batch grills, prep the next. Once they’re all cooked, slice and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Sandwich
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easy mixing.
- Start with a cold pan to get even browning.
- Don’t rush—medium heat gives you that golden crunch without burning.
- Want a little zing? Add a pinch of garlic powder or crushed red pepper to the cream cheese mix.
My Go-To Feel-Good Sandwich
When my kiddos were little and we were navigating chaotic school mornings and surprise sick days, grilled cheese became a staple. But one day, out of a cream cheese bagel habit, I had the bright idea to tuck some into our usual grilled cheese. Instant hit! The extra creaminess turned our basic sandwich into a family favorite we still make on repeat.
Perfect Pairings
- Tomato basil soup for classic comfort
- Pickles or a crisp side salad
- Apple slices for a sweet-tart crunch
- Iced tea or a cold glass of milk
How to Store and Reheat
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for best results (skip the microwave).
- These are best fresh—but if you have extras, they still hit the spot.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Is the mayonnaise necessary?
Not at all. It just adds a little extra richness, but the sandwich is great without it.
Can I make this in a panini press?
Yes! Just skip the butter and use non-stick spray or olive oil instead.
Cheesy, Creamy, Crispy—All in One Bite
This Cream Cheese Grilled Cheese is more than just a sandwich—it’s a mini escape. Quick, easy, and so satisfyingly melty, it’s the kind of cheesy sandwich you’ll crave again and again.
The Ultimate Comfort Bite: Simple Cream Cheese Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cream Cheese Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort sandwich. Layered with sharp cheddar, a creamy blend of cream cheese and Parmesan, and grilled between buttery sourdough slices, this melty masterpiece is simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot.
Ingredients
-
8 slices firm bread (e.g., sourdough)
-
8 slices cheddar cheese
-
5 oz cream cheese (150 g)
-
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (5 g)
-
1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, 15 g)
-
Butter, as needed for spreading
Instructions
-
Make Filling: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, Parmesan, and mayonnaise (if using) until smooth.
-
Assemble Sandwiches: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place 2 slices butter-side down in a cold non-stick skillet. Layer with 1 slice cheddar, a generous spoonful of cream cheese mix, another cheddar slice, and top with buttered bread (butter-side up).
-
Grill Sandwiches: Turn skillet to medium heat. Grill sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
-
Serve Warm: Repeat with remaining sandwiches. Slice and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing.
A cold skillet helps the bread brown evenly.
Add garlic powder or crushed red pepper to the cheese mix for a flavor kick.
Mayonnaise is optional and adds extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch / Sandwich
- Method: Grilled / Stovetop
- Cuisine: American