Cranberry Brie & Mozzarella Grilled Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This grilled sandwich offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes: the soft, melty brie and mozzarella complement the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, all wrapped in a golden, buttery crust. It’s easy to make in under 20 minutes, perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner. Plus, it uses simple ingredients but delivers a gourmet feel, great for impressing without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of crusty bread

• 2 ounces brie cheese, sliced

• 2 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced

• 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Bread: Butter one side of each slice of bread.

2. Assemble the Sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in the skillet. Layer the brie cheese, mozzarella, and cranberry sauce on top. Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.

3. Cook the Sandwich: Grill the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown. Flip the sandwich carefully and cook the other side until it’s golden and the cheese has melted.

4. Finish and Serve: Remove from the skillet and let cool for a minute before slicing in half. Serve warm with your favorite salad or chips on the side for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 sandwich

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Swap cranberry sauce for fig jam or apricot preserves for a different fruity sweetness.

• Add thin slices of apple or pear inside for extra crunch and freshness.

• Use sourdough or ciabatta bread for a different texture and flavor profile.

• Include fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.

• For a vegetarian option, ensure the butter is plant-based or use olive oil instead.

Storage/Reheating

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh for optimal gooey cheese and crispy bread. However, you can store leftovers wrapped in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and the cheese is melty again, or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

What type of cranberry sauce should I use?

You can use either homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. Choose one with a texture you like, whether chunky or smooth.

Can I make this sandwich vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the brie and mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives and use vegan butter or olive oil.

What’s the best bread for this sandwich?

Crusty bread like sourdough or a rustic country loaf works best because it crisps up nicely while holding the fillings.

Can I prepare this sandwich ahead of time?

It’s best freshly made, but you can assemble it ahead and refrigerate briefly, then grill just before serving.

How do I know when the cheese is melted enough?

When the bread is golden brown on both sides, gently press the sandwich; if it feels soft and the cheese oozes slightly, it’s ready.

What can I serve with this sandwich?

Pair it with a simple green salad, chips, or a cup of soup for a complete meal.

Can I use frozen bread?

Thawed frozen bread works fine, but fresh bread will give the best texture.

How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

Make sure to butter only the outside of the bread and avoid overloading the sandwich with cranberry sauce.

Is this sandwich gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread options and ensure all other ingredients meet your dietary needs.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Brie & Mozzarella Grilled Sandwich is a quick, elegant meal that balances creamy, melty cheeses with a burst of fruity sweetness, all nestled in crisp, buttery bread. Perfect for a cozy lunch or a light dinner, it’s simple to prepare yet impressively flavorful. With easy variations and straightforward storage tips, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe.