Southern Bacon Grilled Cheese is not just a sandwich; its a delightful experience that brings comfort and joy to every bite. Growing up in the South, I have fond memories of my family gathering around the kitchen, the aroma of crispy bacon mingling with the rich, melty cheese wafting through the air. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the savory crunch of bacon with the gooey goodness of perfectly melted cheese, all nestled between two slices of golden, buttery bread.

What makes Southern Bacon Grilled Cheese so beloved is its simplicity and versatility. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a late-night snack, this dish never fails to satisfy. The crispy bacon adds a smoky depth that elevates the classic grilled cheese to new heights, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that captures the essence of Southern comfort food!

Ingredients:

8 slices of sourdough bread
8 slices of sharp cheddar cheese
8 slices of cooked bacon
4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: sliced tomatoes or pickles for added flavor

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Cook the Bacon**: Start by cooking the bacon until its crispy. You can do this in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel to drain excess grease. 2. **Prepare the Bread**: While the bacon is cooking, take your sourdough bread and lay it out on a clean surface. Youll need two slices for each sandwich, so make sure you have a total of four pairs. 3. **Mix the Spread**: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. This spread will add a delicious flavor to the outside of your grilled cheese.

Assembling the Sandwiches

4. **Spread the Mixture**: Take a generous amount of the butter mixture and spread it evenly on one side of each slice of bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a golden, crispy finish. 5. **Layer the Cheese and Bacon**: On the unbuttered side of four slices of bread, place two slices of sharp cheddar cheese. Then, layer on two slices of crispy bacon. If youre using tomatoes or pickles, now is the time to add them on top of the bacon. Finally, top with another two slices of cheddar cheese. 6. **Close the Sandwiches**: Take the remaining four slices of bread and place them on top of the assembled sandwiches, buttered side facing out. Press down gently to help everything stick together.

Cooking the Sandwiches

7. **Heat the Skillet**: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for a couple of minutes. You want it hot enough to toast the bread without burning it. 8. **Cook the Sandwiches**: Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. 9. **Flip the Sandwiches**: Using a spatula, gently flip each sandwich over. Cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. If you find that the cheese isnt melting as quickly as youd like, you can cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two to help trap the heat. 10. **Check for Doneness**: After both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. You can check the inside by gently pressing down on the sandwich; if the cheese is gooey and melty, youre good to go!

Serving the Southern Bacon Grilled Cheese

11. **Slice and Serve**: Allow the sandwiches to cool for a minute before slicing them in half diagonally. This not only makes them easier to eat but also showcases the gooey cheese and crispy bacon inside. 12. **Optional Dipping Sauce**: If you want to elevate your grilled cheese experience, consider making a quick dipping sauce. Mix together some ketchup and hot sauce for a spicy kick, or serve with a side of creamy ranch dressing. 13. **Enjoy**: Serve your Southern Bacon Grilled Cheese sandwiches warm, alongside a bowl of tomato soup or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of this deliciously cheesy, crispy, and savory sandwich!

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Cheese

14. **Choose the Right Cheese**: While sharp cheddar is my go-to, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. 15. **Dont Rush the Cooking**: Cooking on medium heat is key. If the heat is too high, the bread will burn before the cheese has a chance to melt. 16. **Add More Flavor**: For an extra kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the bacon layer. 17. **Make it a Meal**: You can turn this sandwich into a full meal by adding some sauté

Conclusion:

In summary, this Southern Bacon Grilled Cheese is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The combination of crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and perfectly toasted bread creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Whether you’re enjoying it for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or even a late-night snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Southern Bacon Grilled Cheese with a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a classic combination that never goes out of style. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor. Feel free to add some sautéed onions or fresh tomatoes for an extra layer of deliciousness! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. Dont forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let them know how much you enjoyed this Southern Bacon Grilled Cheese. Id love to hear about your variations and any creative twists you come up with! So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and get ready to indulge in a grilled cheese experience like no other. Happy cooking!