Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Grilled

Featured in: Comfort Food

This skillet-cooked sandwich blends sharp cheddar and tangy kimchi within toasted sourdough bread. Buttered exterior crisps to a golden finish while the cheese melts perfectly, complemented by optional green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Ideal for a quick, flavorful vegetarian meal with a fusion twist, it’s simple to prepare in under 20 minutes.

Updated on Fri, 28 Nov 2025 16:25:00 GMT
Golden-brown Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, with melted cheese and crispy bread. Save
Golden-brown Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, with melted cheese and crispy bread. | berrycottage.com

A bold and savory grilled cheese sandwich featuring tangy kimchi and sharp cheddar, pan-toasted to golden perfection a fusion twist on a classic comfort food.

This grilled cheese has become my go-to comfort food when I want something with a bit of a spicy kick and melty cheese all in one.

Ingredients

  • Bread: 4 slices sturdy sourdough or country bread
  • Cheese: 120 g (4 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Kimchi: 100 g (about 1/2 cup) well-drained kimchi, chopped
  • Butter: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • Optional Additions: 1 tbsp sliced green onions 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1:
Lay out the bread slices and spread butter evenly on one side of each slice.
Step 2:
Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
Step 3:
Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar on both slices.
Step 4:
Top with the chopped kimchi, spreading it out for even coverage. Add green onions and sesame seeds if using.
Step 5:
Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.
Step 6:
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
Step 7:
Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Step 8:
Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice in half and serve warm.
Tangy kimchi and sharp cheddar create a flavorful Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese sandwich, served warm. Save
Tangy kimchi and sharp cheddar create a flavorful Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese sandwich, served warm. | berrycottage.com

This sandwich always brings my family together for a quick and satisfying meal anytime.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use mayonnaise instead of butter on the bread exterior. Try mozzarella or Gruyère for a milder flavor. Pair with tomato soup or a lightly dressed salad.

Required Tools

Skillet or frying pan Spatula Knife Cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains Dairy (cheese butter), Gluten (bread), Soy (possible in kimchi) Kimchi may contain seafood (fish sauce or shrimp paste)—check ingredients if vegetarian or allergic. Always read product labels to confirm allergen status.

A close-up view of the delicious Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, oozing with melted cheese, ready to eat. Save
A close-up view of the delicious Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, oozing with melted cheese, ready to eat. | berrycottage.com

Enjoy this fusion grilled cheese warm for the best blend of spicy and melty flavors.

Recipe FAQ

What bread works best for this sandwich?

Sturdy sourdough or country bread holds up well to toasting and fillings, ensuring a crisp exterior and soft interior.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?

Yes, milder cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère can be used for a different flavor profile.

How can I achieve extra crispiness on the bread?

Using mayonnaise instead of butter on the bread exterior enhances crispness and adds richness.

What is the role of kimchi in this dish?

Kimchi adds a tangy, spicy element that complements the sharpness of the cheddar, creating a balanced fusion flavor.

Are there any suggested side pairings?

This sandwich pairs well with tomato soup or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Grilled

A savory blend of tangy kimchi and sharp cheddar melted between crispy sourdough slices.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
10 min
Complete duration
20 min
Created by Lily Anderson


Complexity Easy

Heritage Fusion (Korean-American)

Output 2 Portions

Dietary considerations Meat-free

Components

Bread

01 4 slices sturdy sourdough or country bread

Cheese

01 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Kimchi

01 1/2 cup well-drained kimchi, chopped

Butter

01 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Optional Additions

01 1 tbsp sliced green onions
02 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Direction 01

Prepare bread with butter: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.

Direction 02

Assemble base layers: Place two bread slices buttered side down on a clean surface.

Direction 03

Add cheese: Distribute shredded cheddar evenly over the two bread slices.

Direction 04

Add kimchi and optional ingredients: Top the cheese with chopped kimchi, spreading evenly. Add green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Direction 05

Complete sandwich assembly: Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.

Direction 06

Heat skillet: Warm a skillet over medium-low heat.

Direction 07

Cook sandwiches: Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and cheese melts.

Direction 08

Rest and serve: Remove sandwiches from skillet and let rest for 1 minute. Slice in half and serve warm.

Necessary tools

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy information

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and seek professional medical advice if you have concerns.
  • Contains dairy (cheese, butter) and gluten (bread).
  • Kimchi may include soy and seafood products; verify if allergic or vegetarian.

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 420
  • Fats: 23 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Proteins: 16 g