Crispy Bacon Cheddar Sandwich (Printable)

Crunchy sourdough layered with smoky bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, ideal for a warm, satisfying meal.

# Components:

→ Bread and Cheese

01 - 4 slices sourdough bread
02 - 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, sliced or grated

→ Meats

03 - 4 slices bacon

→ Spreads

04 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Optionals

05 - 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for extra crispiness)
06 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Cook bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
02 - Butter one side of each bread slice. Optionally, spread mayonnaise on the unbuttered side for additional crunch.
03 - Place two bread slices buttered side down on a clean surface. Layer cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, ground black pepper, and additional cheese if desired. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
04 - Heat skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts, pressing gently with spatula for crispiness.
05 - Remove sandwiches from skillet, let rest for 1 minute, slice, and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • That crackling, buttery crust shatters between your teeth while the cheese inside is still gooey and warm.
  • The bacon adds a salty, smoky depth that transforms a simple sandwich into something you'll crave.
  • It's genuinely faster to make than ordering takeout, and tastes infinitely better.
02 -
  • Temperature control is everything—too hot and your bread will burn before the cheese melts; too cool and you'll end up with lukewarm bread and congealed cheese.
  • Don't skip draining the bacon thoroughly; water trapped in those strips will steam the bread instead of crisping it.
03 -
  • Cut your cheddar into thin slices rather than grating it; slices melt more evenly and you get those gorgeous cheese pulls when you bite into the sandwich.
  • Toast your bread lightly before building if you're worried about sogginess, but honestly, cooking it in butter while assembled does most of the work for you.
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