Save I discovered this sandwich completely by accident on a Tuesday morning when I was rummaging through my pantry and found a half-empty jar of everything bagel seasoning tucked behind some pasta. My usual grilled cheese felt boring that day, and I thought, why not coat the butter with this? The result was crispy, savory, and honestly better than any grilled cheese I'd made before. Now it's become my go-to when I want comfort food with a little edge.
I made this for my friend Sarah one afternoon when she stopped by unexpectedly, and she took one bite and asked for the recipe immediately. The way the everything bagel seasoning catches the light and clings to the golden bread was honestly beautiful, and watching her close her eyes after that first bite made me realize I'd accidentally created something special. It's become the sandwich I make when I want to impress someone without making it obvious that I'm trying.
Ingredients
- Sourdough or white sandwich bread: Sourdough gives you that tangy backbone and holds up better to butter and heat, but soft white bread works if you want pure indulgence.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: The sharpness cuts through the richness and stands up to the bold seasoning; don't skip the quality here because it's really the star.
- Unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter spreads evenly and helps the seasoning stick, which makes all the difference in every bite.
- Everything bagel seasoning: This is the whole point, so grab a good quality one with visible sesame seeds and a nice peppery kick.
Instructions
- Butter and season your bread:
- Lay out all four slices and spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each. Sprinkle the buttered side generously with everything bagel seasoning, pressing gently so it clings and doesn't just sit on top waiting to fall off.
- Build your sandwich:
- Flip two slices buttered side down, layer two slices of cheese on each one, then top with the remaining bread, seasoned side facing outward. You want that golden, speckled crust to be the first thing anyone sees.
- Get your skillet ready:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat for about a minute until it's hot but not smoking. You're aiming for that perfect sizzle when the sandwich hits the pan.
- Cook until golden and melted:
- Place both sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with your spatula so the bread gets crispy and the cheese melts into every corner. Listen for that gentle sizzle to know you're doing it right.
- Rest and serve:
- Remove from the skillet and let cool for just a minute so the cheese sets slightly. Slice diagonally if you're feeling fancy, and serve while it's still warm enough that the cheese is soft and stretchy.
Save There's something almost meditative about watching the butter foam and the seasoning toast slightly as the bread turns golden in the pan. The moment I flipped it and saw the perfectly crispy, speckled exterior, I felt that small spark of kitchen joy that reminds me why I love cooking these simple things well.
Flavor Combinations That Work
The salty, savory punch of everything bagel seasoning pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar, but don't be afraid to experiment. I've tried this with Swiss for a nuttier flavor and creamy mozzarella for something milder, and both were delicious in their own way. The key is choosing a cheese that can stand up to the bold seasoning without getting lost.
Make It Your Own
While the basic version is perfect, I've found that thin slices of tomato add a brightness that cuts through the richness, and caramelized onions bring a sweet depth that feels almost restaurant-quality. Some mornings I add a thin layer of hummus or pesto before assembling, just because I'm in the mood for something different. The everything bagel seasoning is bold enough to handle these additions without disappearing.
What to Serve Alongside
This sandwich is hearty enough to stand alone, but it sings when paired with something acidic or refreshing. A simple tomato soup is the obvious choice and honestly perfect, but I've also served it with a crisp green salad or even just some pickles on the side to cut through the richness. Trust your instincts about what sounds good with it.
- A warm bowl of tomato soup is the classic pairing and for good reason.
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Pickles or pickled vegetables on the side add brightness and help cleanse your palate between bites.
Save This is the kind of sandwich that reminds you that sometimes the best meals don't need much fuss, just good ingredients and a little attention. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What bread works best with this sandwich?
Sourdough or white sandwich bread offer sturdy, crisp textures that hold up well when buttered and toasted.
- → Can I substitute cheddar cheese?
Yes, Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella are great melting cheeses that provide varied flavor profiles.
- → How does everything bagel seasoning affect the taste?
It adds a savory crunch with sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion notes, enhancing the buttery bread.
- → What cooking tools are needed?
A nonstick skillet or griddle and spatula are essential for achieving an even golden crust and melted cheese.
- → Can additional ingredients be added?
Thinly sliced tomatoes or caramelized onions layer well, boosting flavor and texture complexity.