Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Grilled

Featured in: Comfort Classics

This skillet-toasted sandwich combines sharp cheddar and tangy kimchi layered between buttery sourdough for a crunchy, flavorful twist. The heat gently melts the cheese while crisping the bread to a golden brown. Optional green onions and sesame seeds add delicate texture and a subtle nutty note. Ready in 20 minutes, this fusion-inspired sandwich delivers comfort and bold flavor in every bite, perfect for a quick main dish or satisfying snack.

Updated on Fri, 28 Nov 2025 13:47:00 GMT
Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese reveals melted cheddar and kimchi filling between toasted sourdough bread. Save to Pinterest
Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese reveals melted cheddar and kimchi filling between toasted sourdough bread. | velvetthyme.com

A bold and savory grilled cheese sandwich featuring tangy kimchi and sharp cheddar, pan-toasted to golden perfection a fusion twist on a classic comfort food.

This sandwich combines spicy kimchi with creamy cheddar for a unique twist I first tried making it on a whim and loved the burst of flavors.

Ingredients

  • Bread: 4 slices sturdy sourdough or country bread
  • Cheese: 120 g (4 oz) sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • Kimchi: 100 g (about 1/2 cup) well-drained kimchi chopped
  • Butter: 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
  • Optional Additions: 1 tbsp sliced green onions
  • Optional Additions: 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1:
Lay out the bread slices and spread butter evenly on one side of each slice.
Step 2:
Place two slices buttered side down on a clean surface.
Step 3:
Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar on both slices.
Step 4:
Top with the chopped kimchi spreading it out for even coverage Add green onions and sesame seeds if using.
Step 5:
Place the remaining bread slices on top buttered side facing out.
Step 6:
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
Step 7:
Place the sandwiches in the skillet Cook for 34 minutes per side pressing gently with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Step 8:
Remove from the skillet let rest for 1 minute then slice in half and serve warm.
This golden-brown Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese features a beautiful blend of savory flavors. Save to Pinterest
This golden-brown Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese features a beautiful blend of savory flavors. | velvetthyme.com

This sandwich is a family favorite bringing everyone together for a quick comforting meal.

Required Tools

Skillet or frying pan spatula knife cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains Dairy (cheese butter) Gluten (bread) Soy (possible in kimchi) Kimchi may contain seafood (fish sauce or shrimp paste) check ingredients if vegetarian or allergic Always read product labels to confirm allergen status.

Nutritional Information

Calories 420 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 38 g Protein 16 g per serving

A warm, melty Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese sandwich, served with a hint of sesame seeds. Save to Pinterest
A warm, melty Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese sandwich, served with a hint of sesame seeds. | velvetthyme.com

With these tips this grilled cheese will be your new go-to for a quick snack or lunch.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, milder cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère work well to balance the kimchi’s tangy punch.

How do I get the bread extra crispy?

Spread mayonnaise on the bread exterior instead of butter before cooking for a crispier crust.

Is kimchi spicy?

Kimchi has a mild to moderate heat, depending on the brand, which adds a flavorful zing without overwhelming the sandwich.

What’s the best bread choice?

Sturdy sourdough or country-style bread holds up well during cooking and adds a pleasant tangy flavor.

Can I add toppings?

Yes, sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds enhance texture and flavor without overpowering the main ingredients.

Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Grilled

Tangy kimchi and sharp cheddar melted between golden toasted sourdough slices.

Prep time
10 min
Time for cooking
10 min
Total process time
20 min
Created by Velvet Thyme Eleanor Hayes

Recipe category Comfort Classics

Skill level Easy

Cuisine type Fusion (Korean-American)

Yield amount 2 Number of servings

Dietary details Vegetarian-friendly

List of ingredients

Bread

01 4 slices sturdy sourdough or country bread

Cheese

01 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Kimchi

01 1/2 cup well-drained chopped kimchi

Butter

01 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Optional Additions

01 1 tablespoon sliced green onions
02 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

How to make it

Step 01

Prepare bread with butter: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.

Step 02

Assemble sandwich base: Place two slices of bread on a clean surface, buttered side down.

Step 03

Add cheese layer: Distribute shredded cheddar evenly over both bread slices.

Step 04

Add kimchi and optional toppings: Top cheese with chopped kimchi, spreading evenly. Add sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Step 05

Complete sandwich assembly: Place remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing outward.

Step 06

Heat skillet: Warm a skillet over medium-low heat.

Step 07

Cook sandwiches: Place sandwiches in skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula until bread is golden brown and cheese melts.

Step 08

Serve: Remove sandwiches from skillet, let rest for 1 minute, slice in half, and serve warm.

Essential tools

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy warnings

Be sure to carefully review every ingredient for allergens and seek expert advice as needed.
  • Contains dairy (cheese, butter), gluten (bread), and possibly soy (in kimchi). Kimchi may include seafood-derived ingredients; verify if allergic or vegetarian.

Nutrition details per serving

Details here are meant for guidance. Please contact health professionals for medical advice.
  • Calorie count: 420
  • Fat content: 23 g
  • Carbohydrate: 38 g
  • Protein amount: 16 g