Everyone loves a grilled cheese sandwich, kids and adults alike. Did you know that you could make tomato soup’s favorite partner even easier? Let’s talk about how to make grilled cheese in the microwave. Yep, you heard that right!
The thing I love most about this method besides the speed is the simplicity. In fact, it’s one way that the kids can make their own sandwiches, and I don’t need to worry about them burning the house down trying to turn on the stove!
If you want to enjoy an incredibly delicious side to go with your sandwich, then try making homemade roasted tomato soup in the air fryer! The fresh flavors are amazing!
Can I Make Grilled Cheese in the Microwave?
Yes, you can make grilled cheese in the microwave. The microwave is primarily used to do the melting of the cheese and heating of any other ingredients.
It’s simply a quick alternative to the slower stovetop method. As I mentioned before, this makes it easier for little ones to manage on their own as well.
How Long to Microwave Grilled Cheese
You should microwave your grilled cheese for about 30 seconds. If you add additional toppings into the center of the sandwich, it may take 45 seconds up to 1 minute.
This is based on a 1000W microwave. Times will vary depending on the microwave, type and quantity of cheese, and any other ingredients used. Microwave additional time in 10-second intervals and check for doneness to prevent overcooking.
You could even cook turkey bacon in the microwave ahead of time for use in your grilled cheese sandwich!
How Do You Make Grilled Cheese in a Microwave?
- Toast two slices of bread using a toaster, toaster oven, or the broiler function on your oven
- Add 2 slices of cheese between the bread slices (plus any other toppings you’d like)
- Spread butter, margarine, or mayo on the outside of the bread slices
- Wrap sandwich in a damp paper towel
- Place wrapped sandwich on a microwave-safe plate
- Microwave on high for 30 seconds
- Check if cheese is melted in the middle, and if not microwave for an additional 10-20 seconds
While it may seem counter-intuitive, the damp paper towel actually helps keep your bread from drying out in the microwave. If you like slightly crispier edges, feel free to forego the paper towel.
I should note that no matter which way you do it, your grilled cheese won’t have that crunchy exterior you get from a pan. However, it’s still delicious!
If you need to thaw some frozen bread for this, learn how to defrost bread in the microwave for an easy solution.
How to Microwave Grilled Cheese Without a Toaster
- Place two slices of cheese between two slices of untoasted bread. Spread butter on the outside of each bread slice
- Preheat a microwave crisping tray in your microwave according to manufacturer directions
- Place the sandwich directly on the preheated tray and cook for 30 seconds
- Flip the sandwich using a pair of tongs or a spatula
- Cook for an additional 20-30 seconds, until bread is browned and cheese is melted
For even more time savings, use a panini microwave crisping tray and skip the flipping step!
This method is a great way to get the texture you want when you microwave grilled cheese without a toaster.
How to Reheat Grilled Cheese in the Microwave
- Wrap cold grilled cheese in a damp paper towel
- Place on microwave safe plate
- Microwave on high for 30 seconds
- Flip, then microwave for an additional 10-20 seconds until cheese is re-melted
Aside from the initial cooking, a microwave is also a quick and easy way to reheat a grilled cheese. It doesn’t have to be cooked there to begin with either – this method works well for sandwiches that were originally toasted on the stovetop!
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make grilled cheese in the microwave, you’ll enjoy this cheesy meal anytime you like. With such simple ingredients and versatility with different flavors, there’s no end to the sandwiches you’ll create.
Pair alongside a soup or salad, and you’ve got a delicious lunch. Plus, since using the microwave is so simple, your kids can even handle their own after school snack!
If you’re a lover of all things cheesy, check out how to make boxed mac and cheese in the microwave as well!
For those with an air fryer craving more adult and savory flavors, be sure to stop by my Spanakopita Grilled Cheese recipe!
Easy Grilled Cheese in the Microwave
Equipment
- Microwave
- Butter knife
- Microwave safe plate
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread
- 2 slices of cheese (American is traditional)
- 1 Tbsp butter or margarine
- Additional fillings or seasonings (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by toasting your two bread slices in a toaster, toaster oven, or using the broiler on a conventional oven2 slices of bread
- Add your two slices of cheese to one slice of toasted bread, then top with the other slice2 slices of cheese (American is traditional)
- If you’re adding in anything else (meat, veggies, etc) place it on top of the cheese before putting the bread on topAdditional fillings or seasonings (optional)
- Spread your Tablespoon of butter over the exterior sides of the bread slices1 Tbsp butter or margarine
- Wrap the whole sandwich in a damp (not soaked) paper towel
- Place the wrapped sandwich on a microwave safe plate
- Microwave on high for 30 seconds
- Check that the cheese is melted through, and add an additional 10-20 seconds if necessary
Notes
- You can toast your bread up to a day ahead of time, making it easy for kids to grab it and complete their lunch or snack on their own
- The butter or margarine may be substituted for mayo if preferred (though I find it a bit more messy)
- We use American cheese generally because it melts very well. However, I’ve also used Mozzarella, Pepperjack, Havarti, Muenster, and Swiss with great success
- Feel free to use more than 2 slices if you like your sandwich extra cheesy. However, cooking time will increase around 10 seconds for every additional slice
- Some add-in toppings to consider would be: ham, bacon, pepperoni, tomatoes, pesto, or any other meats, veggies, or seasonings
Nutrition
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
- Air Fryer Patatas Bravas: Crispy Spanish Side or App! - April 13, 2024
- Crispy Trader Joe’s Chicken Taquitos in the Air Fryer - April 10, 2024
- Orange Strawberry Tequila Fizz: Bubbly Fruity Cocktail! - April 8, 2024
Related Posts:
