These Oven-Baked Cheese Melt Sandwiches are the kind of irresistible comfort food that turns ordinary days into cozy celebrations. With golden, crispy bread and gooey, bubbling cheese oozing from the center, they’re a simple yet indulgent treat that’s earned a permanent spot in your weekly rotation—and for good reason.
Unlike traditional grilled cheese made on the stovetop, these sandwiches are baked in the oven, which means you can make a whole batch at once with minimal effort and maximum payoff. The result is a perfectly toasted exterior with a molten cheese interior that stretches with every bite. You can customize them endlessly—add herbs, garlic butter, sliced tomatoes, or even a layer of deli meat. But the classic version, with just bread and cheese, is pure magic.
Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or a midnight snack, these sandwiches are a guaranteed hit. They’re quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and so satisfying that even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds.
INGREDIENTS:
- 12 slices of sandwich bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melty cheese like cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack)
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Optional additions: sliced tomatoes, cooked chicken, turkey, or ham
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Prepare the Garlic Butter (Optional):
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic powder and herbs. This adds flavor and helps the bread crisp up beautifully. - Assemble the Sandwiches:
Lay out half of the bread slices. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese onto each slice, spreading it evenly to the edges. Add any optional fillings like tomato slices or cooked meat. Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches. Spread a thin layer of garlic butter on the outside of each sandwich—both top and bottom. - Bake the Sandwiches:
Place the sandwiches on the prepared tray. Bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. For extra crispiness, you can broil the sandwiches for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning. - Serve Hot:
Remove from the oven and let cool for 2–3 minutes. Slice diagonally and serve with ketchup, chili sauce, or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
- Add sliced jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use garlic naan or focaccia instead of sandwich bread for a gourmet twist.
- Serve with tomato soup or creamy dip for a comforting combo.
- Make mini versions using dinner rolls or slider buns for party snacks.