Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Cheese

Featured in: Bite-Size Snacks

This bold skillet creation layers sharp cheddar with tangy kimchi between slices of buttered sourdough. Pan-toasted slowly, the sandwich achieves a golden crust with melted cheese and a delightful tang. Optional additions like green onions and toasted sesame seeds enhance the fusion flavors. Perfect for a quick, comforting main using simple ingredients and easy techniques.

Updated on Fri, 28 Nov 2025 15:11:00 GMT
Golden-brown Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, oozing with melted cheese and spicy kimchi filling. Save to Pinterest
Golden-brown Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, oozing with melted cheese and spicy kimchi filling. | funcockts.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.

I first served this and loved the unique blend of flavors that elevated a familiar favorite.

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 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.
Crispy sourdough filled with melted cheddar and tangy kimchi, this Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese is ready. Save to Pinterest
Crispy sourdough filled with melted cheddar and tangy kimchi, this Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese is ready. | funcockts.com

This recipe always brings smiles to family dinners creating a warm and flavorful experience together.

Notes

Try mozzarella or Gruyère for a milder flavor. Pair with tomato soup or a lightly dressed salad.

Required Tools

Skillet or frying pan Spatula Knife Cutting board

Nutritional Information

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

A close-up view of the perfectly toasted Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, served with a crispy exterior. Save to Pinterest
A close-up view of the perfectly toasted Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, served with a crispy exterior. | funcockts.com

Enjoy this fusion grilled cheese hot off the skillet for the best flavor and texture.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How do I prevent the bread from burning during cooking?

Cook the sandwich over medium-low heat and press gently with a spatula to ensure even toasting without burning. Buttering the bread evenly also helps achieve a golden crust.

Can I use different types of cheese for this melt?

Yes, milder cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère offer creaminess while complementing the tangy kimchi without overpowering it.

What is the best way to drain kimchi for this dish?

After chopping, place kimchi in a fine mesh strainer and press down lightly to remove excess liquid. This prevents sogginess during cooking.

Are there any recommended side pairings?

Lightly dressed salads or tomato-based soups pair well, balancing the bold flavors and richness of the sandwich.

Can I add extra toppings to enhance flavor?

Try sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds to introduce fresh and nutty notes that complement the kimchi and cheddar.

Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Cheese

Savory skillet melt with sharp cheddar and tangy kimchi, toasted until golden and melty.

Prep Duration
10 minutes
Cook Duration
10 minutes
Overall Time
20 minutes
Authored by Funcockts Ethan Miller


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Fusion (Korean-American)

Makes 2 Portions

Diet Facts Meat-Free

What You Need

Bread

01 4 slices sturdy sourdough or country bread

Cheese

01 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Kimchi

01 ½ cup well-drained kimchi, chopped

Butter

01 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Optional Additions

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

Directions

Step 01

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

Step 02

Assemble Sandwich Base: Place two bread slices buttered side down on a clean surface.

Step 03

Add Cheese: Evenly distribute shredded cheddar over the two slices.

Step 04

Add Kimchi and Optional Toppings: Spread chopped kimchi evenly atop the cheese layer. Add green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Step 05

Complete Assembly: Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward.

Step 06

Preheat Skillet: Heat 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 and cheese is melted.

Step 08

Rest and Serve: Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute, then slice in half and serve warm.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Review all components for allergens and reach out to a health expert if needed.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar cheese, butter)
  • Contains gluten (bread)
  • Possible soy presence in kimchi
  • Kimchi may contain seafood-derived ingredients; verify for allergy and vegetarian considerations

Nutrition Details (each serving)

Nutrition details are just for reference and can't replace professional medical counsel.
  • Energy (Calories): 420
  • Fats: 23 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Proteins: 16 g