Save I was craving comfort food one rainy afternoon but wanted something with a little more attitude than the usual grilled cheese. The sriracha mayo idea came from a sandwich shop downtown where they slathered spicy mayo on everything. After some experimentation I found that spreading it on the outside creates this incredible crispy crust that locks in all the melty goodness.
My roommate walked in while I was flipping the first sandwich and immediately demanded one for herself. The smell of toasting bread mixed with that distinctive sriracha tang filled the whole apartment. Now whenever either of us has a rough day we just look at each other and say spicy grilled cheese night.
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread: The sturdy texture holds up to grilling without getting soggy and adds a tangy depth
- Sharp cheddar cheese: This brings the bold flavor punch needed to stand up to the spicy mayo
- Monterey Jack cheese: Creates that perfect gooey melt factor and mild creaminess
- Mayonnaise: The secret to restaurant style crispy edges every single time
- Sriracha sauce: Start with one tablespoon and work your way up based on your spice tolerance
- Fresh lime juice: Cuts through the richness and brightens the whole sandwich
- Unsalted butter: Adding a thin layer under the mayo ensures no burnt spots and extra flavor
Instructions
- Make the spicy mayo:
- Whisk together the mayonnaise sriracha and lime juice in a small bowl until completely smooth. Give it a taste and add more sriracha if you want to live dangerously.
- Prep the bread:
- Butter one side of each bread slice lightly and evenly. This goes on the outside so save your nice spreading hand for the good stuff.
- Build your masterpiece:
- Layer the cheddar and Monterey Jack on the unbuttered sides of two bread slices. Top with the remaining slices buttered side facing out like you mean business.
- Spread the magic:
- Slather that sriracha mayo all over the outside buttered surface of each sandwich. Do not be shy here this is what makes it special.
- Get the heat right:
- Warm your skillet over medium low heat. Low and slow wins the race giving the cheese time to melt before the bread burns.
- Grill to perfection:
- Carefully place sandwiches mayo side down in the pan. While the first side cooks spread that glorious spicy mayo on the top facing side.
- Flip and finish:
- Cook for three to four minutes per side until golden brown and crisp with cheese oozing out the sides. Press gently but not so hard that you squeeze out all the melty goodness.
Save This sandwich has become my go to for Sunday lunches while watching old movies. There is something about cutting into that crispy crust and watching the cheese stretch that just feels like home even in a tiny apartment far from family.
Making It Your Own
I love adding pickled jalapeños inside the sandwich for an extra pop of acid and heat. Caramelized onions take this to another level if you have the time to cook them down slowly.
Cheese Choices
Smoked gouda or smoked cheddar adds this incredible depth that makes the sandwich taste like it came from a fancy deli. Pepper jack works beautifully if you want even more spice without adjusting the mayo.
Perfect Pairings
A crisp lager cuts through the richness perfectly or go with a chilled sauvignon blanc to contrast the heat. Keep sides simple because this sandwich is the star of the show.
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the heaviness
- Tomato soup is classic but try roasting the tomatoes first
- Pickles on the side add crunch and acidity
Save Hope this sandwich brings as much comfort and joy to your kitchen as it has to mine.
Common Questions
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the sriracha quantity in the mayo mix or add sliced jalapeños inside for extra heat.
- → What breads work best for this dish?
Hearty sourdough or white sandwich bread hold up well and crisp beautifully when grilled.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used here?
Sharp cheddar provides strong flavor; Monterey Jack adds creaminess but can be omitted or swapped with gouda.
- → What cooking equipment do I need?
A nonstick skillet or griddle and spatula are ideal for even grilling and easy flipping.
- → How do I prevent the sandwich from burning while melting cheese?
Cook over medium-low heat and press gently to ensure cheese melts while bread crisps without burning.