Kimchi Grilled Cheese

By Ali Slagle

Published September 25, 2022

Recipe Metadata

• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Rating: 5 (2,210 reviews)

• Comments: 196 comments

Introduction

This creative twist on the classic grilled cheese merges the bold, tangy-spicy profile of kimchi with the creamy richness of melted cheese. The mild, meltable texture of mozzarella is ideal here, as it balances the kimchi’s heat while allowing its unique flavor to shine. For added versatility, the recipe accommodates optional cheese varieties (e.g., Cheddar, pepper Jack) or savory leftovers, ensuring a customizable, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or your preferred variety)

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (for spreading on bread)

• ¼ cup kimchi, drained (fresh or homemade; adjust for heat preference)

• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (base cheese)

• Optional additions:

• ¼ cup grated Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper Jack cheese (for depth/kick)

• ¼ cup chopped savory leftovers (e.g., grilled steak, roasted vegetables, cooked grains)

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread: Spread mayonnaise evenly on both sides of the bread slices. This prevents rapid browning and ensures a crispy, golden exterior.

2. Assemble the sandwich: On one slice of bread, layer the drained kimchi, followed by the shredded mozzarella (and any optional cheese/leftover ingredients). Cover with the second slice of bread, pressing gently to secure the filling.

3. Cook the sandwich: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwich in the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has fully melted. Adjust heat to prevent burning.

4. Serve: Remove the sandwich from the pan, let it cool slightly, and enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Mayonnaise Advantage: Using mayonnaise instead of butter avoids premature burning, allowing the cheese to melt uniformly while the bread toasts to perfection.

• Cheese Flexibility: Swap mozzarella for other cheeses: pepper Jack for extra heat, or Gouda for a smoky, nutty contrast.

• Leftover Integration: Leftover proteins or vegetables (e.g., roasted bell peppers, shredded chicken) add texture and reduce food waste.

• Kimchi Control: Drain excess liquid to prevent sogginess; adjust kimchi quantity to balance spiciness with cheese creaminess.

Media

For a step-by-step visual guide, watch Ali Slagle’s preparation video [here]. Save the recipe by bookmarking the article for easy access.

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