Save I discovered this version of grilled cheese at a farmer's market where a vendor was sampling everything bagel seasoning on just about everything. When I asked what it would be like on a classic grilled cheese, she grinned and said, "Trust me." That afternoon, I stood in my kitchen with my jar of that magical seasoning blend, and it completely changed how I thought about a dish I'd been making since childhood. The crispy, umami-packed crust that formed was nothing like the butter-toasted bread I remembered, and suddenly this humble sandwich felt grown-up and craveable.
One Saturday morning, I made this for my partner while they were still half-asleep, and the smell of toasting everything bagel seasoning woke them better than coffee ever could. They stumbled into the kitchen following their nose, and I'll never forget the exact moment they took their first bite and their eyes went wide. We ended up making three more sandwiches that day because nobody wanted just one.
Ingredients
- Sourdough or white sandwich bread: Sourdough gives you a tangier flavor and better structure to hold up to the crispy coating, but white bread makes it richer and more nostalgic if that's what you're after.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar has enough personality to stand up to the bold seasoning without getting lost, though Swiss or provolone work beautifully if you want something milder.
- Unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter spreads evenly and means the heat distributes perfectly for that golden crust, so don't skip the softening step.
- Everything bagel seasoning: This is where the magic lives, giving you sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt all at once without any extra work from you.
Instructions
- Butter and season your bread:
- Lay all four slices out on your counter and spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each. The key is thin, not thick, so the seasoning sticks without making it greasy. Now sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning generously on the buttered sides, pressing gently with your fingertips so it really adheres and doesn't just brush off when you flip it.
- Build your sandwiches:
- Take two slices, butter-side down, and layer two slices of cheese on each one. Top with the other two slices, seasoned-side facing out so the outside gets that gorgeous crust. You're creating a little cheese cave in the middle, and you want that outside armor to be crispy.
- Heat your skillet:
- Get a large nonstick skillet going over medium heat and let it warm for a minute or so. You want medium, not high, because everything bagel seasoning can scorch quickly if the pan's too hot and you'll miss the beautiful golden-brown stage.
- Cook until golden and melted:
- Place your sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with your spatula every so often. You're listening for that gentle sizzle and watching for the bread to turn golden brown and the cheese to start oozing out the sides, which means it's melted enough. When both sides are crispy and the cheese is soft inside, you're done.
- Rest and serve:
- Let them cool for just a minute so the cheese sets slightly and you don't burn the roof of your mouth, then slice diagonally and serve immediately while the outside is still crackling.
Save This sandwich taught me that sometimes the simplest dishes just need one unexpected ingredient to become something people remember. My best friend now asks me to make these whenever she visits, and it's become this small ritual between us that feels way more meaningful than a grilled cheese should.
Variations Worth Trying
Once you nail the basic version, you can start playing. I've added thin tomato slices between the cheese layers and watched the sandwich go from crispy-savory to bright and balanced. Caramelized onions are another game-changer if you have ten minutes to slowly cook some yellow onions until they're sweet and jammy, because they add this depth that makes the cheese taste even richer.
Cheese and Bread Swaps
The beauty of this sandwich is how adaptable it is to what you have on hand. Provolone gives you a smoother melt and a slightly peppery note, while Swiss brings a nuttiness that pairs really well with everything bagel seasoning. Even mozzarella works if you're craving something creamier and less sharp, though I find it disappears a bit against the bold seasoning.
Pairing and Serving Ideas
Serve this with something that plays off the richness and saltiness of the sandwich. Tomato soup is the classic pairing for a reason, but a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette cuts through the butter and cheese in a way that feels refreshing. Even a quick pickle or some hot sauce on the side can turn this into a more complete meal.
- A bowl of tomato soup alongside turns this into a cozy lunch that feels like it took way more effort than it did.
- Hot sauce, sriracha, or a spicy mayo on the side adds a kick that plays beautifully with the umami of the seasoning.
- Don't sleep on how good this is with a simple side salad and a cold drink, especially if you're making it for dinner rather than lunch.
Save This sandwich proves that sometimes the best versions of beloved dishes come from a single moment of curiosity and a willingness to try something slightly different. Make it soon and see what I mean.
Recipe FAQ
- → What bread works best for this dish?
Sourdough or white sandwich bread works best for a balance of texture and flavor.
- → Can I substitute the cheese?
Yes, sharp cheddar can be replaced with Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella to suit your taste.
- → How do I get the bread crispy?
Butter the bread evenly and cook on medium heat, pressing gently until golden brown on both sides.
- → What is everything bagel seasoning?
A blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, onion, and salt that adds flavor and crunch to the bread.
- → Can I add extra fillings?
Thinly sliced tomatoes or caramelized onions make great additions between cheese slices.