Kimchi Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Crispy sourdough with spicy kimchi and melted cheddar creates a flavor-packed comfort sandwich.

# 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 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Optional Add-ins

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

# How To Make It:

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 Suggestions:

01 -
  • The tangy kimchi cuts through rich cheese in a way that keeps every bite exciting
  • Ready in under twenty minutes but tastes like something from a fancy sandwich shop
02 -
  • Soggy kimchi equals soggy bread so do not skip the drying step
  • Medium low heat is your friend for melting cheese before the bread burns
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet for the most even golden crust
  • Grate your cheese instead of slicing for faster melting