Description
Craving a rich, melty sandwich that elevates the classic grilled cheese to a whole new level? The Mushroom Grilled Cheese, with 2 glowing reviews, is your answer! This gourmet treat features crispy portobello mushrooms, a blend of four cheeses, and fresh thyme, all sandwiched between buttery, toasted sourdough bread.
Ingredients
To make Mushroom Grilled Cheese for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this indulgent dish:
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for sautéing mushrooms.
- Butter (8 tbsp, softened, divided): Adds richness and creates a golden crust.
- Portobello Mushroom Caps (4 large, gills removed, sliced): Earthy, meaty base.
- Salt (â…› tsp): Enhances mushroom flavor.
- Pepper (â…› tsp): Adds a mild kick.
- Mayonnaise (3 tbsp): Creates a creamy, tangy spread.
- Manchego or Parmesan Cheese (3 tbsp, finely shredded): Adds nutty, savory depth.
- Onion Powder (â…› tsp): Provides subtle savory flavor.
- Sourdough Bread (8 slices): Sturdy, tangy base for the sandwich.
- Brie Cheese (4 oz, rind removed, sliced): Offers creamy, melty richness.
- Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded): Adds bold, tangy flavor.
- Monterey Jack Cheese (½ cup, shredded): Brings smooth, melty texture.
- Gruyere Cheese (½ cup, shredded): Contributes nutty, complex flavor.
- Fresh Thyme (2 tsp, minced): Adds aromatic, herbaceous notes.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Mushrooms: Swap portobello with cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms.
- Bread: Use whole wheat, ciabatta, or gluten-free bread.
- Cheeses: Replace Brie, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere with mozzarella, fontina, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Butter: Substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free option.
- Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter or plant-based version.
- Add-Ons: Include sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free (check labels).
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a slice of jalapeño.
Why These Ingredients Matter: The mushrooms provide an earthy, meaty texture, while the four-cheese blend creates a rich, melty filling. The sourdough and buttery spread ensure a crispy exterior, and thyme adds a fresh touch, making this a balanced, indulgent meal perfect for cheese lovers.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Mushrooms
- In a large cast-iron or heavy skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp softened butter over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced portobello mushrooms (from 4 large caps, gills removed) in a single layer and sauté for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and beginning to crisp.
- Sprinkle with â…› tsp salt and â…› tsp pepper.
- Remove mushrooms from the skillet and wipe it clean with a paper towel.
Tip: Remove gills with a spoon to avoid a gritty texture, and cook mushrooms in a single layer for even browning.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
- Spread 3 tbsp softened butter on one side of each of the 8 sourdough slices.
- Place bread, butter side down, in the same skillet over medium-low heat and toast for 2–3 minutes until golden brown; remove and set aside.
Tip: Toast in batches if needed, and keep heat low to avoid burning the butter.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese and Spread
- In a small bowl, mix ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar, ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack, and ½ cup shredded Gruyere.
- In another small bowl, combine 3 tbsp mayonnaise, 3 tbsp finely shredded Manchego or Parmesan cheese, and â…› tsp onion powder.
Tip: Shred cheeses finely for even melting, and mix the spread thoroughly for a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
- On the toasted side of 4 bread slices, layer the sautéed mushrooms.
- Sprinkle 2 tsp minced fresh thyme over the mushrooms.
- Add sliced Brie (4 oz, rind removed) evenly over the mushrooms.
- Sprinkle the cheddar-Monterey Jack-Gruyere mixture evenly over the Brie.
- Top with the remaining 4 bread slices, toasted side facing inward.
- Spread the butter-mayonnaise mixture on the outside of each sandwich (both sides).
Tip: Press gently to ensure the layers stick together, and spread the mayo mixture thinly for even browning.
Step 5: Cook the Sandwiches
- Place the sandwiches in the same skillet over medium-low heat.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Tip: Press lightly with a spatula for even cooking, and flip carefully to maintain sandwich structure.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice sandwiches in half (diagonally for a classic look) and serve hot.
Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the melty cheese and crispy exterior at their best.