Delicious Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the warm, melty comfort of a classic grilled cheese sandwich—but when it’s inspired by Panera Bread’s beloved version, you know you’re in for something special. This Panera Bread Grilled Cheese copycat recipe takes the simple, nostalgic sandwich to new heights with perfectly golden, buttery bread and a dreamy blend of gooey cheeses that stretch with every bite.

Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a soul-soothing dinner alongside a bowl of soup, this grilled cheese delivers that signature Panera warmth right from your own kitchen. Let’s bring the café vibes home! Speaking of chicken—if you’re a fan of chicken salads, you’ll love this Copycat Calvin’s Chicken Salad recipe. It’s light, creamy, and perfect for a refreshing lunch on a warm day.

Why Panera’s Grilled Cheese is So Special

Ever bite into a sandwich and feel happy? That’s Panera’s grilled cheese for me. It’s crispy, gooey, and so good you’ll want more. They use fancy cheese like Fontina that melts just right. I had it once on a rainy day with soup. The bread was golden, and the cheese stretched perfectly.

It’s made with Fontina, cheddar, and a bit of American cheese. It’s simple but feels special. This grilled cheese isn’t just kid food. It’s an adult treat that warms you up. Making this Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe at home is easy and fun. It’s all about that cozy, happy vibe. If you love cinnamon-based treats, check out this rich and indulgent Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake recipe—it’s the perfect dessert to pair with your cozy grilled cheese meal.

Ingredients for Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe

• 2 slices Thick-Cut White Bread
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 2 slices White Cheddar Cheese
• 2 slices American Cheese
• 1 slice Gruyère Cheese

Equipment and Tools

• Nonstick Skillet or Grill Pan
• Spatula
• Butter Knife or Spreader
• Cutting Board & Knife
• Cheese Grater (optional)

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 10
• Serving: 1 people

How to Make Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe

Let’s make this Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe! It’s easy and so good. Here’s how:

Step 1: Prep Your Bread and Cheese: Grab your bread. Sourdough works best. Layer your cheeses. Start with Fontina. Add sharp white cheddar. Finish with American cheese. This combo is perfect.

Step 2: Butter or Mayo Your Choice: Spread butter or mayo on the outside of your bread. Butter makes it golden. Mayo makes it crispy. Both are great.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow: Heat your pan on medium-low. Don’t rush. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Press gently with a spatula. This helps the cheese melt.

Step 4: Flip and Melt: Flip the sandwich when the first side is golden. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. The cheese should be gooey. The bread should be crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Once your Panera grilled cheese recipe masterpiece is done, let it rest for a minute before slicing. Pair it with a bowl of warm tomato soup—because grilled cheese and tomato soup are soulmates.

Watch How to Make

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Cheese

Making the perfect panera bread grilled cheese is all about a few simple tricks. Let me share them with you!

Tip 1: Cook Low and Slow: Take your time! Don’t rush. Low heat gives the bread a golden, crispy crust. At the same time, the cheese melts just right. It’s worth the wait.

Tip 2: Use a Mix of Cheeses: Fontina, cheddar, and American cheese. That’s the secret! Fontina melts well and adds flavor. Cheddar brings sharpness. American cheese makes it creamy. Together, they make a great grilled cheese.

Tip 3: Butter or Mayo?: This one is up to you! Butter gives a rich taste. Mayo makes the bread crispy and golden. Both work well. Try them both and see which one you like best!

Tip 4: Add Fun Extras: Want to spice it up? Try adding mac and cheese inside for a mac & cheese grilled cheese. Or add some herbs for extra flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Tip 5: Press Lightly: When you cook your sandwich, press down gently with a spatula. It helps the cheese melt more evenly. But don’t press too hard! You want it crispy, not flat.

Serving Ideas for Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe

A panera bread grilled cheese sandwich is already amazing, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even better! Here are some easy and delicious ways to serve your Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe.

1. Classic Tomato Soup: You can’t go wrong with grilled cheese and tomato soup. The creamy, slightly tangy soup balances the crispy, buttery sandwich. Dip your sandwich into the warm soup for the ultimate comfort food experience.

2. Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese Twist: Want something extra cheesy? Make a mac & cheese grilled cheese by stuffing creamy mac and cheese inside your sandwich. Serve it with a light salad or pickles to balance the richness.

3. Fresh Side Salad: A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast to your melty, cheesy sandwich. Try a mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The tangy dressing cuts through the richness, making every bite perfect.

4. Crispy Chips or Fries: Pair your sandwich with crunchy potato chips or golden fries. The crispy texture makes a great combo with the soft, gooey cheese inside the sandwich.

5. Pickles for a Tangy Bite: Pickles add a crunchy, tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Serve dill or bread-and-butter pickles on the side for an extra flavor boost.

FAQs about Panera Bread Grilled Cheese

What cheese does Panera use for grilled cheese?

Panera’s grilled cheese features Fontina, white cheddar, and American cheese. This mix creates a creamy, melty texture with a rich, savory flavor.

Can I make a Panera Bread Grilled Cheese without Fontina?

Yes! If you don’t have Fontina, use Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Both melt well and have a similar mild, nutty flavor.

What bread does Panera use for its grilled cheese?

Panera uses thick-cut white bread for a crispy, golden crust. You can also try sourdough or artisan bread for a gourmet twist.

How do I make a mac & cheese grilled cheese like Panera?

Simply spread creamy mac & cheese between slices of bread along with the cheese. Grill until golden and gooey for the ultimate comfort food.

Should I use butter or mayo for grilling?

Either works! Butter gives a rich flavor, while mayo creates an extra crispy crust. Try both and see which one you prefer!

How can I make this an adult grilled cheese sandwich?

Upgrade your sandwich with caramelized onions, crispy bacon, or a sprinkle of herbs. A dash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard adds extra flavor, too!

What’s the best way to get a crispy, golden crust?

Cook your Panera Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe on medium-low heat. Press gently with a spatula and cook slowly to get a perfectly crispy crust.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Assemble the sandwich, butter the outside, and air fry at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. The bread will be extra crispy!

Conclusion

Now you can make Panera Bread Grilled Cheese at home! It is easy and delicious. The mix of the three cheeses melts perfectly. Want to try something new? Add mac and cheese for extra flavor! Serve with tomato soup or fries for a tasty meal. Did you make this? Tell us how it went! What is your favorite cheese mix?