Ultimate Grilled Cheese with Crispy Bacon

Ingredients

Butter

4 tablespoons, softened

Cheddar cheese

4 slices (or 1 cup shredded)

Bread

4 slices (your choice: sourdough, whole wheat, or white)

Bacon

6 slices

Garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon (optional, for extra flavor)

Black pepper

to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
3. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer 2 slices of cheddar cheese, followed by 3 slices of crispy bacon. If using, sprinkle garlic powder and black pepper for added flavor.
4. Top with the remaining two slices of bread, ensuring the buttered sides are facing up.
5. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet, pressing down slightly with a spatula.
6. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. If needed, reduce the heat to avoid burning the bread.
7. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let cool for a minute before cutting the sandwiches in half. Serve warm.