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Crispy Kimchi Grilled Cheese

crispy kimchi grilled cheese - featured image

A quick and easy grilled cheese sandwich with a crispy exterior, spicy tangy kimchi, and melty cheese blend for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices sturdy sandwich bread (sourdough or thick white bread recommended)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup well-drained kimchi, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 tablespoons finely sliced green onions
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain excess liquid from 1 cup kimchi and roughly chop into bite-sized pieces. Rinse lightly if kimchi is very spicy. Set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons mayonnaise with 1 teaspoon gochujang and stir until smooth.
  3. Shred 1 cup sharp cheddar and 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
  4. Spread the spicy mayo on one side of each bread slice. On 4 slices, layer half the cheese evenly, then spread chopped kimchi, sprinkle green onions, and top with remaining cheese. Close with the other bread slice, mayo side down.
  5. Generously butter the outside of each sandwich slice, covering the entire surface.
  6. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until deep golden brown and cheese is melted.
  7. Remove from heat and let sandwiches rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning bread and allow cheese to melt fully. Butter the bread generously for a crispy crust. Drain kimchi well to prevent sogginess. Adjust gochujang for spice level. Vegan and gluten-free substitutions available.

Nutrition

Keywords: kimchi grilled cheese, spicy sandwich, melty cheese, crispy sandwich, Korean fusion, easy lunch, quick dinner