Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Sandwich

Featured in: One-Pot Comfort Meals

This skillet-toasted sandwich combines the sharpness of cheddar with the tangy zest of well-drained kimchi, layered between sturdy sourdough bread slices. Buttered and cooked until golden, it offers a crispy exterior with melty cheese inside. Optional add-ins like green onions and toasted sesame seeds elevate the flavor profile. Quick to prepare, it's ideal for a satisfying fusion meal with a bold savory punch.

Updated on Fri, 28 Nov 2025 09:56:00 GMT
Golden, gooey Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, with melted cheese and kimchi, ready to serve. Save
Golden, gooey Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, with melted cheese and kimchi, ready to serve. | cloverhearth.com

A bold and savory grilled cheese sandwich featuring tangy kimchi and sharp cheddar, pan-toasted to golden perfection a fusion twist on a classic comfort food.

This sandwich became our latest favorite after I discovered how well the tangy kimchi pairs with sharp cheddar it truly elevates a simple grilled cheese.

Ingredients

  • Bread: 4 slices sturdy sourdough or country bread
  • Cheese: 120 g (4 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Kimchi: 100 g (about 1/2 cup) well-drained kimchi, chopped
  • Butter: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • Optional Additions: 1 tbsp sliced green onions 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1:
Lay out the bread slices and spread butter evenly on one side of each slice.
Step 2:
Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
Step 3:
Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar on both slices.
Step 4:
Top with the chopped kimchi, spreading it out for even coverage Add green onions and sesame seeds if using.
Step 5:
Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.
Step 6:
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
Step 7:
Place the sandwiches in the skillet Cook for 34 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Step 8:
Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice in half and serve warm.
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| cloverhearth.com

This grilled cheese brings back memories of cozy family lunches and sharing new flavors together.

Optional Variations

Try swapping cheddar with mozzarella or Gruyère for a milder taste add sliced pork belly for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with tomato soup or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that complements the rich sandwich.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Crispy sourdough bread surrounds melted cheddar and spicy kimchi in this Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese. Save
Crispy sourdough bread surrounds melted cheddar and spicy kimchi in this Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese. | cloverhearth.com

Enjoy this quick and flavorful sandwich anytime you want a delicious comfort meal with a Korean twist.

Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Sandwich

Tangy kimchi pairs with sharp cheddar in a golden skillet-toasted sandwich with optional sesame and green onions.

Prep duration
10 minutes
Cook duration
10 minutes
Overall time
20 minutes
Recipe by Clover Hearth Emily Dawson

Recipe type One-Pot Comfort Meals

Skill level Easy

Culinary roots Fusion (Korean-American)

Servings made 2 Portion size

Diet preferences Meatless

What you'll need

Bread

01 4 slices sturdy sourdough or country bread

Cheese

01 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Kimchi

01 ½ cup well-drained kimchi, chopped

Butter

01 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Optional Additions

01 1 tablespoon sliced green onions
02 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

How to make it

Step 01

Prepare bread: Lay out the bread slices and spread butter evenly on one side of each slice.

Step 02

Arrange base slices: Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.

Step 03

Add cheese: Evenly distribute shredded cheddar on both slices.

Step 04

Add kimchi and optional toppings: Top with chopped kimchi, spreading evenly. Add green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Step 05

Complete sandwich assembly: Place remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.

Step 06

Preheat skillet: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.

Step 07

Cook sandwiches: Place sandwiches in skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.

Step 08

Rest and serve: Remove from skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice in half and serve warm.

Equipment needed

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy details

Be sure to review every ingredient for potential allergies, and talk to a medical expert if you’re unsure.
  • Contains dairy (cheese, butter), gluten (bread), soy (possible in kimchi).
  • Kimchi may contain seafood (fish sauce or shrimp paste); verify if vegetarian or allergic.

Nutrition information (each portion)

Only use this data as a helpful reference—it’s not intended to replace professional health guidance.
  • Calorie count: 420
  • Fat content: 23 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 38 grams
  • Proteins: 16 grams