Cheese Crusted Hawaiian Grilled Cheese (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
2 slices thick sourdough bread
02 -
2-3 slices extra thin deli ham
03 -
1 slice canned pineapple, or ¼ cup pineapple chunks
04 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
05 -
½ teaspoon dried oregano
06 -
2 tablespoons salted butter
# Instructions:
01 -
Lay one slice of bread flat and layer with ham slices and pineapple. Sprinkle about ½ cup of shredded mozzarella over the pineapple, then add a pinch of dried oregano for extra flavor.
02 -
Place the second slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich. Generously sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top slice of bread - this will create the crispy cheese crust.
03 -
Melt butter in a nonstick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the butter coats the entire bottom of the pan evenly.
04 -
Carefully place the sandwich in the hot skillet with the cheese-topped side facing up. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bottom slice turns golden brown and crispy.
05 -
Using a spatula, carefully flip the sandwich so the cheese side is now down against the hot pan. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese forms a golden, crispy crust and the inside cheese is completely melted.
06 -
Remove from heat and let cool for just 30 seconds before cutting. Slice diagonally and serve right away while the cheese is still gooey inside and crispy outside.
# Notes:
01 -
Pat pineapple slices dry to prevent the sandwich from getting soggy
02 -
Use medium-high heat to get the cheese crust crispy without burning
03 -
Don't press down on the sandwich while cooking - let the cheese melt naturally
04 -
Cast iron pans work great for this recipe and give extra crispiness
05 -
The cheese crust technique works with any grilled cheese combination