Crispy Halloumi Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Golden halloumi slices grilled between buttered rustic bread create a crisp and gooey sandwich.

# Ingredient list:

→ Cheese

01 - 7 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/5 inch thick pieces

→ Bread & Spread

02 - 4 slices rustic or sourdough bread
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
04 - 1 tbsp olive oil

→ Optional Additions

05 - 2 tsp honey or hot honey (optional, for drizzling)
06 - 1 small handful fresh arugula or baby spinach (optional)
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Cooking steps:

01 - Pat halloumi slices dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
02 - Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Fry halloumi slices for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
04 - Place two bread slices buttered side down on a clean surface. Layer fried halloumi evenly on top, add arugula or spinach and drizzle honey if using. Season with freshly ground black pepper.
05 - Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
06 - Wipe skillet clean and return to medium heat. Place sandwiches in skillet and grill 2 to 3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is warmed through.
07 - Remove from skillet, slice in half, and serve immediately.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • The halloumi creates these incredible crispy edges that regular cheese just cannot achieve
  • Its secretly fast enough for a weeknight but fancy enough for company
  • The salty squeak against crunchy bread hits every satisfaction button
02 -
  • Dry halloumi is crispy halloumi, so do not skip the paper towel step
  • Medium heat is your friend. High heat burns the bread before the cheese warms through
  • Halloumi naturally contains a lot of salt, so taste before adding extra
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one for the most even browning
  • Keep the heat at medium. Patience beats burnt bread every time
  • Let the pan reheat between batches if you are making more than two
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