Save It Few things beat the comfort of grilled cheese but this loaded baked potato grilled cheese somehow takes it up another notch. Creamy mashed potatoes join smoky bacon and loads of cheddar between slices of buttery crisp bread finished with a dollop of cool sour cream and fresh chives for that classic baked potato experience. Perfect for chilly afternoons when you want dinner to feel like a big cozy hug.
The first time I made this it was a snow day and my kids thought mixing mashed potatoes into a sandwich was magical. Now it is in regular rotation whenever we have leftover potatoes to use up.
Ingredients
- Mashed potato: adds creaminess and makes the sandwich hearty select Yukon Gold potatoes for extra buttery flavor
- Bacon bits: smoky and salty for a flavor punch look for crisp cooked bacon or chop up your own
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts easily and gives lots of ooey gooey stretch choose sharp or extra sharp for best results
- Sour cream and chives: as a topping for cool tang and freshness fresh chives make a huge difference
- Sandwich bread: sturdy slices like sourdough or classic white hold everything together pick bread with a tight crumb to prevent leaks
- Butter: essential for grilling to golden brown perfection opt for unsalted so the filling is not too salty
Instructions
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Place two slices of bread on your work surface butter side down. Spread half the mashed potato evenly onto one slice then sprinkle on bacon bits and a generous layer of shredded cheddar. Top with another slice of bread butter side up on the outside.
- Grill to Golden and Melty:
- Heat a skillet over medium low. Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan and cook slowly for about four to five minutes on the first side pressing gently with a spatula. When the bread is deep golden flip and repeat until the cheese is melted through and the second side is crisp. Aim for gentle heat so the cheese has time to melt before the bread browns too much.
- Add the Loaded Toppings:
- Transfer each grilled sandwich to a plate. Spread a spoonful of sour cream over the top while warm then shower with freshly chopped chives. Serve right away for the best melty bite.
Save It It is also a huge hit whenever my family comes together for Sunday lunch and we pile them high for a comfort food feast.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers un-topped in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat so the bread crisps up again and top with sour cream and chives just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella in place of cheddar for a milder or stretchier cheese pull. For a vegetarian twist skip the bacon and add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms. Swap chives for sliced scallion greens if chives are unavailable.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tomato soup or a crisp green salad to make it a complete meal. For a sweeter contrast pair with apple slices or try pickles for a tangy note. Great for sharing at casual gatherings or family movie nights.
Cultural and Historical Context
This sandwich riffs on two American icons grilled cheese and loaded baked potatoes both favorite comfort foods. Combining them brings the nostalgia of diner lunches with the cozy vibes of homemade baked potatoes that so many families love.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use leftover mashed potatoes from holiday meals in winter. Add diced roasted vegetables in fall for extra flavor. Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley in spring for brightness.
Success Stories
My sister calls these her game night secret weapon because every time she brings them they vanish first. I have even had neighbors text me for the recipe after one bite at a backyard cookout. Kids especially love how cheesy and fun this sandwich is.
Freezer Meal Conversion
These sandwiches are best fresh but you can assemble and freeze them ungrilled. Layer parchment between sandwiches wrap tightly then freeze. When ready to cook allow to thaw slightly then grill from chilled following the same instructions for melty cheese and crispy bread.
Save It This loaded grilled cheese offers a comforting mashup of two classics in every melty bite. Enjoy it straight from the skillet for the ultimate cozy meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
Thick-sliced sandwich bread holds the fillings well and toasts evenly. Brioche or sourdough can also add flavor and texture.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the bacon or use plant-based alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I achieve crispy bread?
Butter the outside of each bread slice evenly and grill in a hot skillet until both sides are golden and crisp.
- → What other toppings work well?
Try jalapeños for spice, caramelized onions for sweetness, or swap in your favorite cheeses.
- → How do I keep the cheese from spilling out?
Layer the cheese between potatoes and bacon inside the bread, pressing the sandwich lightly before grilling.
- → Is this sandwich kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy cheese and potato filling appeal to many kids. Omit bacon or customize as needed for picky eaters.