Save It This grilled cheese with kimchi and cheddar is my favorite way to give the comfort—classic a wild twist. The mellow richness of melted cheddar blends with spicy kimchi tucked between golden bread slices for a sandwich that hits every craving. It is easy enough for any weeknight and adds a little excitement to your lunch routine.
My first time making this, I was skeptical about mixing kimchi and cheddar—and then I tasted it. Suddenly plain grilled cheese felt a bit boring and this spicy version became my favorite midnight snack.
Ingredients
- White sandwich bread: Soft crumb works best for crispy golden outsides
- Cheddar cheese: Sharpness matters here so go for aged if you can find it for the best melt and bold flavor
- Kimchi: Choose kimchi with plenty of juice and chop it finely for best melting and flavor distribution
- Butter: Softened, which is essential for even spreading and a crackly crust. Tolerance to burning makes real dairy butter my choice
Instructions
- Prep the Components:
- Spread a generous amount of softened butter on one side of each bread slice making sure the butter extends all the way to the edges for crispiness
- Layer the Filling:
- On the non—buttered side of one bread slice pile on grated cheddar making sure it covers all corners then scatter a hearty layer of well—drained and chopped kimchi across the cheese
- Sandwich and Seal:
- Top with the other bread slice buttered side facing out press gently to compact the fillings and keep everything together
- Grill Golden Brown:
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium—low lay in the sandwich and resist the urge to move it for three to four minutes until the bottom is deep golden. Flip carefully and continue cooking the second side until the cheese is fully melted and the exterior is shatteringly crisp
- Rest and Slice:
- Let your sandwich cool on a rack for about one minute to prevent burning yourself and help the flavors meld. Cut in half and let the cheesy strings stretch and tempt you
Save It Kimchi is the real star here. I once brought this grilled cheese to a family movie night and my parents—and total grilled cheese purists—could not stop asking for another bite. Now the combo is our rainy day tradition.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers wrapped in foil in the fridge but know the grilled cheese is best eaten right away for maximum crunch. You can reheat in a hot skillet to revive the crispy crust. Kimchi tends to keep bread soft over time so do not plan to prep too far ahead.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try rye or sourdough for a tangy bread flavor or swap cheddar for gouda or mozzarella. For a vegan option choose plant—based cheese shreds and use vegan butter with a kimchi that contains no seafood elements.
Serving Suggestions
Slice into fingers and dip in a bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort combination. It also pairs well with a cool cucumber salad or as a hearty snack next to a light beer.
Cultural or Historical Context
Kimchi brings Korean soul to this classically American treat. Many Korean—American homes combine familiar childhood foods and this mashup represents a delicious collision between the two. It is all about creamy plus spicy plus crispy and that makes it irresistible.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add thinly sliced tomatoes in summer for juicy freshness. Sprinkle chopped chives or green onions in spring for extra brightness. Try roasted winter squash in colder months for a sweet twist.
Success Stories
I shared this recipe at a potluck and no one guessed it was so easy. There were no leftovers — even the pickiest eaters came back for a second triangle.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble the ungrilled sandwiches and wrap tightly. You can freeze these and then grill directly from frozen adjusting cooking time as needed. This trick helps you enjoy a spur—of—the—moment treat without any mess.
Save It This grilled cheese with kimchi and cheddar is impossible to resist—spicy, cheesy, crisp, and packed with personality. Make it once and it may become your new rainy day tradition too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
Sturdy breads like sourdough, country loaf, or thick-sliced white toast hold up well to fillings and provide a crispy crust.
- → Can I substitute the cheese?
Yes, any good melting cheese such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack can replace cheddar for a different flavor.
- → Is the kimchi spicy?
Most kimchi has a mild to moderate heat. Select a more or less spicy variety based on your preference.
- → How do I keep the bread crispy?
Spread a thin layer of butter on the outside before grilling, and cook over medium heat to ensure golden, crunchy results.
- → Can I make this sandwich vegan?
Use plant-based butter and cheese, and confirm the kimchi contains no fish sauce for a vegan-friendly version.