Cracker Barrel Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Crafting a Cracker Barrel-style grilled cheese brings a lovely twist to this classic comfort food.

The key to nailing this sandwich is to use a combination of cheeses, like colby and provolone, for that perfect gooey texture.

Personally, I can’t get enough of the addition of shaved parmesan to amp up the savory flavor.

Butter your bread generously for a golden, crispy crust every time.

Taking your time while grilling on medium heat will help achieve perfect meltiness without burning.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 slices Sourdough Bread
• 1 tbsp Butter (softened)
• 2 slices Colby Cheese
• 1 slice Provolone Cheese
• 2 tbsp Parmesan Cheese (shaved)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread.

Spread it evenly to ensure perfect browning.

Step 2:

Place one slice of colby cheese on the unbuttered side of one bread slice.

Add a slice of provolone cheese on top.

Step 3:

Sprinkle a layer of shaved parmesan cheese over the provolone.

Put another slice of colby cheese on top of the parmesan.

Step 4:

Place the other slice of bread on top with the buttered side facing outward.

Press down gently.

Step 5:

Heat a skillet over medium heat.

Grill the sandwich on one side until golden, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Flip and repeat.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose the Right Bread

Use sourdough for a nice tang and texture that crisps up wonderfully when grilled.

It’s a perfect match for gooey cheese.

Don’t Skimp on Cheese

Layer different types of cheese to achieve a complex flavor profile.

Experiment with additional cheeses like cheddar or gouda if desired.

Watch the Heat

Keep your heat on medium to allow the cheese to melt fully without burning the bread.

You’ll want a nice balance to create the best texture.

Try Variations

Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions for a tasty twist.

These simple additions can enhance your sandwich significantly!

Use a Pan Press

A pan press can help achieve perfectly even browning by applying gentle pressure.

It’s a handy tool for ensuring your sandwich cooks evenly.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Tomato Soup

Nothing pairs with a grilled cheese quite like a bowl of rich, creamy tomato soup!

The tangy flavor of the tomatoes complements the savory cheese perfectly.

Feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for an extra touch of freshness.

Potato Salad

A cool and creamy potato salad can bring a delightful contrast to your warm grilled cheese.

Its combination of boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and mustard offers a tangy and comforting texture.

Serve it alone or mix in some fresh herbs for added flavor.

Sweet Potato Fries

Want to try something different?

How about sweet potato fries for a sweet and salty contrast?

These fries are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a wonderful twist to the classic pairing.

Cucumber Salad

A light cucumber salad might be just what you need if you’re looking to pair your sandwich with something refreshing.

The thinly sliced cucumbers marinated with vinegar and onion bring a crisp and refreshing side dish.

It’s simple, but that crunch makes a great match.

Fruit and Nut Mix

Consider serving a bowl of fresh fruits mixed with some almonds or walnuts.

Fruits like apples and grapes balance well with the richness of the cheese.

Nuts add a satisfying crunch and are a quick way to add a bit of protein to your meal!

Variations and Substitutions

You can use a variety of cheeses to create different flavors in your grilled cheese.

Try using Fontina and Gouda for a bold and flavorful twist!

Bread Choices

Don’t feel limited to sourdough bread.

Experiment with multigrain or crusty French bread for different textures.

Each type of bread gives a unique crunch and taste.

Cheese Pairings

Mix and match your cheeses!

Combine colby, provolone, and parmesan for a deliciously cheesy blend.

Experimenting with different cheeses enhances the flavor.

Extra Ingredients

Adding extras can make your sandwich exciting!

Try caramelized onions or roasted tomatoes for added sweetness.

These add-ons can really change the dynamic of your sandwich!

Heat Levels

Adjust how you cook your sandwich to play with textures.

Go for a lower heat for a slower melt and golden crust.

Higher heat provides a crispier finish but needs careful monitoring.

Butter Alternatives

Use olive oil or mayonnaise instead of butter for a different flavor.

Each option provides its own special touch to your sandwich’s crust.

How to Store Leftover Grilled Cheese Sandwich

When it comes to storing your leftover grilled cheese, the process is simple but effective!

First, allow the sandwich to cool down so it doesn’t get soggy.

Wrap your grilled cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Alternatively, use an airtight container for storage.

This helps keep the bread from drying out and the cheese fresh.

Refrigerating

Store your wrapped sandwich in the refrigerator.

Grilled cheese can be stored for up to two days without losing too much flavor or texture.

Freezing

If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option!

Wrap your sandwich in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag to protect it.

Quick Tip

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just remember how you stored it.

Keeping track ensures you know exactly how fresh it is when you take it out!

Your next cheesy delight awaits!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cheese Choices

When making a Cracker Barrel grilled cheese, picking the right cheese is crucial!

You want cheese that melts well, so avoid hard cheeses like Parmesan that might not provide the creamy texture you’re after.

Exploring options like cheddar or American can lead to a deliciously gooey sandwich.

Butter Coverage

Don’t skimp on butter when spreading it over the bread!

Uneven coverage can result in parts of the bread burning while others remain uncrisped.

Using room temperature butter makes it easier to spread, ensuring that each bite is perfectly toasted.

Cooking Temperature

Cooking your sandwich at a too high temperature is a common error.

If the heat is too high, the bread can burn before the cheese melts.

Keeping the heat medium-low allows the cheese to melt thoroughly while the bread reaches that golden brown perfection.