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Crispy bacon meets melty cheddar and buttery Texas toast in this bacon grilled cheese sandwich that always hits the spot when cravings strike. I make this when comfort food is calling or when I want a fast lunch that feels like a treat but uses just a handful of simple ingredients.
The first time I made this with thick Texas toast and extra crispy bacon it completely changed my view on grilled cheese. My family now asks for it on game days and blustery Saturdays.
Ingredients
- Texas toast: the thick slices hold up to melty cheese and bacon so your sandwich stays crisp not soggy
- Cheddar cheese: choose sharp if you want more bite or mild for creamy melt select blocks and slice yourself for best flavor and gooeyness
- Bacon: thick cut bacon brings smoky salty depth cook until extra crisp to avoid limp strips
- Mayonnaise: spreads more smoothly than butter for a truly golden crust use high quality mayo for extra richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Lay bacon strips in a cold skillet and heat to medium letting them crisp up slowly for full flavor. Flip as needed and once fully crisp transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain.
- Prep the Bread:
- Spread a thin even layer of mayonnaise on one side of each slice of Texas toast. The mayo will help the bread brown evenly and give a crunchier exterior than butter.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Place half of the bread slices mayo side down on your cutting board. Layer 2 slices of cheese and 2 strips of bacon on each Piece. Top with remaining bread slices mayo side up.
- Toast the Sandwiches:
- Place assembled sandwiches in a preheated skillet over low to medium heat. Press gently and cook for 2 to 4 minutes per side until the bread is deeply golden and the cheese is fully melted. If necessary reduce heat to avoid burning before the cheese gets gooey.
- Rest and Serve:
- After cooking let your sandwiches rest for 2 to 3 minutes before slicing. This keeps cheese from leaking out and gives a perfect gooey texture with every bite.
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I always pick thick cheddar for the best melt and strong flavor. My son still talks about the time we made these with smoked gouda and bacon after his soccer game and it became our new Saturday ritual.
Storage Tips
Leftover bacon grilled cheese can be wrapped and kept in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage freeze them wrapped in plastic then foil and reheat in a hot skillet or oven for best crispness. Never wrap while warm or you will end up with soggy bread.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different cheese pull. For a lighter option use turkey bacon or skip bacon and add sliced tomato for a vegetarian spin. Regular sandwich bread works if you do not have Texas toast just watch the cook time to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
Cut sandwiches in halves or quarters for party snacks. These are perfect beside a hot bowl of tomato soup or even with a pile of pickle chips and coleslaw for a deli inspired lunch. Dress them up by adding sliced avocado or a swipe of spicy mustard before cooking.
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Cultural Context
Grilled cheese has been a staple in American homes since the early 1900s but adding bacon turns it into a modern comfort classic. Using mayo on the bread is a Southern diner trick that guarantees an extra crisp exterior every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I get the crispiest toast?
Use mayonnaise instead of butter on each slice of bread before toasting. This helps achieve an even, golden-brown crust and extra crunch on the outside.
- → What kind of bacon works best?
Thick-cut bacon provides the most flavor and structure, holding up well between layers of bread and cheese without becoming soggy.
- → Can I use a different cheese besides cheddar?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, American, or a cheese blend can give a different melt and stretch. Choose your favorite for new flavors.
- → Any tips for preventing a soggy sandwich?
Let the bacon grilled cheese cool before storing and use a paper towel to soak excess grease. Store cooled sandwiches in airtight containers.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To re-crisp, warm in a skillet over medium heat or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soft.