Ah, grilled cheese. It’s one of those soul-nourishing meals that instantly takes me back to my childhood. I remember rainy days curled up on the couch, the intoxicating smell of buttery bread crisping on the skillet, while a warm bowl of tomato soup sat nearby waiting to be devoured. There’s something so cozy about grilled cheese, right? But what if we take this classic dish and give it a twist? Enter: Sheet-Pan Grilled Cheese Squares with Kimchi and Melted Cheese Layers. This dish is as comforting as your traditional grilled cheese but comes with a zesty punch that will excite your taste buds and shake things up in the best way possible. Let’s dive into this unique take that’s perfect for family dinners or a quirky lunch with friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy weeknight dinner that comes together quickly.
• Budget-friendly ingredients that are usually in your pantry.
• Comforting flavors with a fun, spicy kick from the kimchi.
• Great for feeding a crowd—all cooked on one sheet pan!
• Adapts easily to whatever cheese you have on hand.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delicious cheesy squares:

• 8 slices of bread (sourdough or whole grain work beautifully)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of mozzarella and cheddar offers great flavor)
• 1 cup kimchi, chopped (use more if you like it spicy!)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (for an extra creamy texture)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Helpful Notes:

• If you’re feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of sesame oil to the kimchi for extra flavor.
• If you prefer a milder taste, opt for a cheese like Monterey Jack instead.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Don’t worry—this recipe is as easy as pie! Follow along, and let’s create culinary magic.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the center because we want that perfect melt!
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help you with easy cleanup later—thank me later!
3. Start by assembling the base: Take four slices of bread and lay them out on the baking sheet. Brush one side of each piece with half of the softened butter.
4. Flip the bread over so the buttered side is down. Now it’s time to build flavor! Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the unbuttered side of each of these four slices.
5. Top each slice with a generous amount of shredded cheese (about 1/2 cup each) and a heap of chopped kimchi. The kimchi adds that fabulous tang and crunch—yum!
6. Now, take the remaining four slices of bread, butter one side, and place them on top of the cheese and kimchi layers, buttered side up. Think of this as a delightful sandwich stack!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. Halfway through, take a peek and flip them over so they get that golden-brown color on both sides. Watch closely as they bake, as oven times may vary!
8. Once the sandwiches are toasty and cheese is gooey, remove them from the oven. Let them rest for a minute because no one likes burnt fingers or tongues!
9. Using a sharp knife, cut into squares. Serve hot with a sprinkle of green onions for an extra pop of freshness! And there you have it: crispy, cheesy goodness in square form.

<img src=”” alt=”Cut Sheet-Pan Grilled Cheese Squares” />

Pro Tips & Variations

Feeling frisky? Here are a few fun ideas to customize your grilled cheese experience!

• Try adding sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. They’ll add a lovely heat that complements the kimchi.
• Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a little extra nutrition and earthiness.
• Swap out the kimchi for pickles if you’re not a fan—surprise, surprise, that classic combo also works!
• For a smoky flavor, sprinkle some smoked paprika on the cheese just before baking.

Get creative—there’s no wrong way to love a grilled cheese!

Serving Suggestions

These Sheet-Pan Grilled Cheese Squares are delicious on their own, but let’s be real. Food is all about pairing and sharing! Here are some cozy serving ideas:

• Serve alongside a steaming bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort combo—like a warm hug for your tummy.
• Pair with a simple side salad of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette. The crunch of the greens contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese.
• Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

<img src=”” alt=”Served Sheet-Pan Grilled Cheese Squares with Garnish” />

Storage Tips

These delicious squares won’t last long, but if you happen to have leftovers (kudos to you!), here’s how to store them without sacrificing flavor:

• Allow the squares to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• If you want to freeze them, wrap individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag—these can be frozen for up to a month!
• To reheat, pop them in the toaster oven to crisp up or microwave them for convenience. The toaster oven often gives the best results, keeping that crunchy texture!

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your gluten-free bread is suitable for grilling; some brands hold up better than others. You might have to adjust the cooking time, so keep an eye on them.

What kind of kimchi should I use?

Use any kimchi you love! There are milder varieties available, and if you like it extra spicy, then go for the spicier ones. Homemade kimchi works wonders too!

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep them the night before! Assemble your squares, keep them covered in the fridge, and then bake them fresh when you’re ready to eat. Just don’t let them sit too long before baking, or they could get soggy.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Of course! Feel free to mix and match your favorites. Gouda, pepper jack, or even a creamy brie would be marvelous in this recipe—the cheesy possibilities are endless!

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

The best way is to reheat them in the toaster oven or pan-fry them on the stove for a few minutes on each side. This way, you’ll bring back that lovely crispiness!

Conclusion

I hope you love making these Sheet-Pan Grilled Cheese Squares with Kimchi as much as I do. The blend of warm, melted cheese and tangy kimchi is pure joy in every bite. Whether you’re sharing with family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to bring smiles. Don’t forget to leave a comment about your experience or any fun twists you tried. Happy cooking!

Irresistible Sheet-Pan Grilled Cheese Squares with Kimchi Layers

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Savor sheet-pan grilled cheese squares layered with kimchi & molten cheese. Quick, easy recipe perfect for sharing or a cozy night in!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

8 slices of bread (sourdough or whole grain)

2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)

1 cup kimchi, chopped

4 tablespoons butter, softened

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Lay four slices of bread on the baking sheet, buttering one side of each with half of the softened butter.

Flip the bread so the buttered side is down. Spread mayonnaise on the unbuttered side of each slice.

Top each slice with shredded cheese (about 1/2 cup each) and chopped kimchi.

Butter one side of the remaining four slices and place them on top of the cheese and kimchi layers, buttered side up.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Let them rest for a moment before cutting into squares.

Serve hot, topped with green onions if desired.

Notes

A unique take on a classic dish, these Sheet-Pan Grilled Cheese Squares with Kimchi are comforting, zesty, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Melted cheese layers combined with the crunch of kimchi create a delightful and exciting culinary experience.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8 servings
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1 gram
• Fat: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 12 grams

Keywords: grilled cheese, kimchi, comfort food, easy recipe, sheet pan meal, quick dinner