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Grilled mac and cheese sandwiches turn leftover macaroni into a crave-worthy treat that is crispy on the outside and irresistibly gooey inside. This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes making it perfect for those busy days when you want something comforting without the fuss. It’s a fun way to elevate simple leftovers into a satisfying meal that both kids and adults will love.
I first made this on a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how simple it was to transform leftovers into something so indulgent. Now it’s a regular request at our house whenever we have macaroni and cheese left over.
Ingredients
- Four slices of sourdough bread: Choose a fresh loaf with a sturdy crust for perfect toasting and structure
- One and a half cups of leftover macaroni and cheese: This is the star ingredient so use your favorite homemade or store-bought recipe for best results
- Eight slices of American or cheddar cheese: These melt beautifully providing that classic creamy texture and flavor
- Two tablespoons butter: For a golden crisp exterior use unsalted butter if you want to control salt levels better
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the macaroni and cheese:
- Warm three quarters of a cup in a nonstick skillet on medium heat for about three to four minutes until hot and slightly loose in texture making it easy to shape
- Shape and cheese the mac and cheese:
- Form the warm macaroni into a rectangle roughly the size of one slice of bread. Place two slices of cheese on top to begin melting
- Butter the bread:
- Take two slices of sourdough and spread butter evenly on one side of each slice for golden browning during grilling
- Toast the first slice:
- Place one buttered slice butter side down in a skillet over medium heat. Top with two slices of cheese and cook until the bottom turns light golden brown. Check by gently lifting a corner with a spatula
- Assemble the sandwich:
- Transfer the mac and cheese rectangle on top of the melted cheese. Cover with the remaining buttered bread slice ensuring the toasted side faces up. Gently press together to compact
- Serve Immediately:
- Slice in half if you prefer and enjoy it hot while the cheese is gooey and the bread is crisp
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I love the way the combination of creamy macaroni and crispy bread brings memories of both childhood comfort food and quick home cooking. The first time I made this my kids were instantly hooked and it has become a go-to for afternoon snacks or casual dinners ever since.
Storage Tips
Store any uneaten sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, use a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat to crisp the bread while warming the filling without drying it out. Avoid the microwave as it can make the bread chewy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap sourdough for whole wheat or multigrain bread to add heartier texture and fiber. Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese in place of American or cheddar for a milder, stretchy melt. You can also add cooked veggies like spinach or diced tomatoes into the macaroni for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this sandwich with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A cup of tomato soup alongside adds a nostalgic touch and perfect dipping companion that complements the cheesiness beautifully.
Cultural Context
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a beloved American comfort food with roots tracing back to the early 20th century when cheese and bread became staple affordable ingredients. Adding macaroni and cheese brings a fusion twist that reflects today’s creative home cooks making use of leftovers in delicious ways.
Pro Tips
- Toast the bread slowly over medium heat to ensure a golden crust without burning
- Don’t skip melting cheese on both the bottom bread and on top of the mac for maximum gooeyness
- Use a spatula to gently press the sandwich while grilling to meld layers and speed melting of cheese
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
Sourdough is ideal due to its sturdy crust, which crisps nicely while holding the creamy filling without sogginess.
- → Can I use different cheeses for the filling?
Absolutely! Cheddar or American cheese melts well, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- → How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?
Butter the bread slices before grilling to create a crispy exterior, and shape the mac and cheese firmly to limit excess moisture.
- → Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped veggies like spinach, tomatoes, or bell peppers can be mixed into the mac and cheese before cooking for added nutrition and texture.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness, rather than using a microwave which can make it soggy.