There’s something magical about the combination of gooey cheese and crispy bread, but when you add a spicy twist of kimchi, it takes comfort food to a whole new level.
Kimchi grilled cheese is my go-to when I want a quick meal that’s packed with flavor.
This fusion dish blends the classic American favorite with the bold, tangy notes of Korean cuisine, creating a sandwich that’s both satisfying and exciting.
Ingredient List
Don’t stress – we’re keeping this easy! I’ve grouped the ingredients for you. This way, you’ll find everything you need without any hassle.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise (substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 1 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste)
For the Sandwich
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough or your favorite type)
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or dairy-free cheese shreds)
- 1 cup of kimchi, roughly chopped (look for low-sodium varieties if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free version)
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Prepare the Sauce
- Whisk together ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) and 1 tablespoon gochujang in a small bowl.
- Adjust seasoning for spice preference. If too spicy for the kids, use less gochujang.
- Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread the sauce evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer on 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or dairy-free cheese shreds) and ½ cup chopped kimchi.
- Top with another slice of bread, sauce side down.
- Cook the Sandwiches
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or olive oil).
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip carefully and add more butter if needed, then cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Serve
- Slice the sandwiches in half and enjoy while the cheese is gooey and melty!
- Your kitchen will smell amazing, and everyone will ask for seconds!
Recipe Notes & Variations
- Sauce Tweaks:
- For the sauce, feel free to swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Adjust the gochujang to your spice preference. Start with 1 tablespoon and increase as desired.
- Bread Choices:
- I love using sourdough, but you can also try whole grain or gluten-free bread (just use a 1:1 gluten-free blend).
- Ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
- Cheese Options:
- Cheddar works wonderfully, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or use dairy-free cheese shreds if needed.
- Kimchi Picks:
- Use homemade kimchi for a fresher taste or store-bought varieties for convenience. I recommend checking for spice levels to suit your kiddos.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container.
- Assemble sandwiches ahead of time (up to an hour) and cover with foil to keep them fresh.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of pickles or a light salad to balance the richness. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Kid-Friendly Adjustments:
- Omit the gochujang for a milder version. Add a sprinkle of garlic powder to keep the flavor.
- Cooking Hacks:
- Use pre-chopped veggies or pre-packaged kimchi to save time on prep.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving my kimchi grilled cheese with a few simple sides that complement its bold flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal extra special:
- Pickles: The tanginess pairs perfectly with the gooey cheese. Choose dill or spicy varieties for a kick.
- Light Salad: A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the sandwich.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they add a nice crunch and make for a comforting side.
- Soup: A bowl of tomato or miso soup warms up the meal beautifully and is always a hit with kids.
Nutrition Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutrition for my Kimchi Grilled Cheese. This delicious sandwich offers a nice balance of flavors and nutrients.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 400 |
Protein | 15 grams |
Total Fat | 22 grams |
Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
Carbohydrates | 33 grams |
Fiber | 2 grams |
Sugars | 2 grams |
Sodium | 800 mg |
Substitutions:
- For a lighter version: Use Greek yogurt in the sauce.
- For gluten-free: Choose gluten-free bread.
Serving Size: One sandwich.
Conclusion
I’ve got to say that kimchi grilled cheese is a game changer. It takes a beloved classic and gives it a spicy twist that’s just irresistible.
Whether you’re craving something comforting or looking to impress friends at your next get-together, this sandwich hits the spot every time.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own.
From adjusting the spice level to trying different bread and cheese combinations, the possibilities are endless.
So grab your skillet and get ready to indulge in a melty masterpiece that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy every gooey bite!