Copycat Starbucks Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Irresistible Copycat Starbucks Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Crafting a delectable copycat Starbucks grilled cheese sandwich at home brings pure culinary joy.

Crispy bread and melty cheese create an irresistible comfort meal anyone can master.

Professional chefs and kitchen newbies alike will fall in love with this simple recipe.

Starbucks-inspired magic happens when quality ingredients meet clever cooking techniques.

Warm, gooey cheese nestled between perfectly toasted sourdough sounds like a dream come true.

Creamy textures and rich flavors promise to make your taste buds dance with excitement.

This sandwich could become your new favorite lunch or quick dinner solution.

Grab those ingredients and let’s make something deliciously memorable!

Key Ingredients in Copycat Starbucks Grilled Cheese

  • Quick and Simple Prep: Whip up this restaurant-inspired sandwich in just a few minutes with basic ingredients you likely have in your kitchen.
  • Comfort Food Upgrade: Transform classic grilled cheese into a gourmet experience with a delicious blend of mozzarella and white cheddar that melts perfectly.
  • Perfect for Any Meal: Enjoy this versatile sandwich as a satisfying lunch, quick dinner, or crowd-pleasing snack that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Easy Cooking Technique: Master the art of golden-brown grilling with simple skillet cooking that guarantees a crispy exterior and gooey, melted cheese interior.

How to Prepare Grilled Cheese Copycat

Bread:
  • Sourdough Bread: A tangy, thick-crusted bread that provides a sturdy base for the grilled cheese sandwich.
Cheese Blend:
  • Mozzarella Cheese, White Cheddar Cheese: A creamy and rich combination that melts smoothly and creates a classic, gooey cheese filling.
Cooking Fat:
  • Butter: A rich, golden spread that helps achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior and adds depth of flavor to the sandwich.

Copycat Grilled Cheese Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Bread and Cheese

Grab your favorite sourdough or artisan bread.

Soften butter at room temperature.

Slice mozzarella and white cheddar cheese into thin, even layers.

Have these ingredients ready:
  • Sourdough bread
  • Softened butter
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • White cheddar cheese

Step 2: Butter the Bread Exterior

Generously spread butter on the outside of each bread slice, ensuring complete coverage for a crispy, golden exterior.

Step 3: Build the Cheese Layers

Place unbuttered sides of bread facing inward.

Create a delicious cheese landscape by layering mozzarella and white cheddar between the bread slices.

Step 4: Warm the Cooking Surface

Place a non-stick skillet on medium-low heat.

Let the pan warm up evenly to create the perfect grilling environment.

Step 5: Grill the First Side

Carefully set the sandwich in the skillet with the buttered side touching the pan.

Listen for a gentle sizzle as the bread starts to transform into a golden-brown masterpiece.

Step 6: Flip and Grill the Other Side

After 3-4 minutes, when the bottom reaches a beautiful golden color, gently flip the sandwich.

Cook the second side with the same care and attention.

Step 7: Perfect the Grilling Technique

Use a spatula to lightly press down on the sandwich, ensuring even browning and helping the cheese melt perfectly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet.

Slice diagonally for that classic deli-style presentation.

Serve immediately while the cheese is melty and the bread is crisp.

Helpful Tips for Grilled Cheese Copycat

  • Choose a sturdy sourdough or white bread that can hold up to grilling without falling apart.
  • Mix mozzarella and white cheddar for a rich, creamy melting texture that mimics the Starbucks original.
  • Cook the sandwich on medium-low heat to ensure golden-brown crispy exterior and fully melted cheese inside.
  • Spread softened butter evenly on the bread's exterior for consistent, crispy browning and delicious flavor.
  • Gently press the sandwich with a spatula while cooking to create an even, compact grilled cheese with crisp edges.

Flavor Variations for Grilled Cheese Copycat

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular bread with gluten-free sourdough or artisan gluten-free bread, keeping all other ingredients the same for a celiac-friendly option.
  • Vegan Cheese Delight: Swap dairy cheeses with plant-based mozzarella and cheddar alternatives made from cashew or almond bases, maintaining the same grilling technique.
  • Low-Fat Option: Use olive oil spray instead of butter, choose reduced-fat cheese varieties, and select whole grain bread with lower calorie content for a healthier sandwich.
  • Mediterranean Herb Spin: Add fresh basil leaves, sprinkle dried oregano, and include a thin layer of sundried tomato spread between cheese layers for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired grilled cheese.

Serving Ideas for Grilled Cheese Copycat

  • Cheesy Sidekick Platter: Pair the grilled cheese with a crisp dill pickle spear or tangy cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch.
  • Soup Companion: Dunk this gooey sandwich into a steaming bowl of tomato basil soup for ultimate comfort food satisfaction.
  • Quick Lunch Upgrade: Slice the sandwich diagonally and serve with a small mixed green salad dressed in light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
  • Wine & Dine Moment: Complement the rich cheese flavors with a chilled glass of crisp white wine like sauvignon blanc for an elevated lunch experience.

Storage Guidance for Grilled Cheese Copycat

  • Store leftover sandwich in an airtight container for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag for maximum 2 weeks, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn.
  • Warm sandwich on microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds, checking midway to avoid soggy texture and ensure even heating.
  • Restore crispy exterior by reheating in lightly buttered skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes per side, helping bread regain original crunchiness.

FAQs

  • Is this exactly like the Starbucks grilled cheese?

The recipe is a close copycat but might have slight variations from the original Starbucks version.

  • What type of bread works best?

Sourdough or thick-cut white bread provides the best texture and crispy exterior for this grilled cheese.

  • Can I use different cheeses?

While mozzarella and white cheddar are recommended, you can substitute with similar melting cheeses like provolone or monterey jack.

  • How do I prevent burning the bread?

Cook on medium-low heat and watch carefully, flipping when the bottom turns golden brown to ensure even grilling without burning.

Print
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Copycat Starbucks Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Copycat Starbucks Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe


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4.8 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 1 1x

Description

Starbucks grilled cheese sandwich combines crispy sourdough bread with melted cheeses and a zesty spread. Cheese enthusiasts will savor this simple yet satisfying homemade version you can craft in minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Cheese:

  • 2 slices mozzarella cheese
  • 2 slices white cheddar cheese

Bread:

  • 2 slices thick white bread

Spreads and Fats:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread slices by generously coating one side of each piece with softened butter, ensuring complete coverage for optimal golden crispiness.
  2. Construct the cheese layers by delicately arranging mozzarella and white cheddar cheeses between the unbuttered interior surfaces of the bread.
  3. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, allowing the surface to warm evenly for consistent grilling.
  4. Carefully position the assembled sandwich into the heated skillet, placing the buttered exterior facing downward to create a crisp, caramelized exterior.
  5. Allow the sandwich to grill undisturbed for approximately 3-4 minutes, monitoring the bottom surface for a rich, golden-brown coloration.
  6. Using a spatula, gently flip the sandwich to expose the uncooked side, continuing the grilling process for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  7. Apply gentle pressure with the spatula across the sandwich surface, ensuring uniform browning and cheese melting throughout.
  8. Once both sides achieve a perfect golden-brown texture and cheese is completely melted, remove the sandwich from the skillet.
  9. Transfer to a cutting board, slice diagonally, and serve immediately while the cheese remains warm and gooey.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter for smooth, even spreading across bread slices.
  • Choose high-quality, sharp white cheddar and fresh mozzarella for rich, authentic flavor.
  • Keep heat low and slow to prevent burning while achieving perfect golden-brown crispy exterior.
  • For gluten-free version, swap regular bread with gluten-free sourdough or artisan bread options.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 710 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 820 mg
  • Fat: 54 g
  • Saturated Fat: 32 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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