Ever miss that melty, cheesy goodness of a Sonic grilled cheese? Believe it or not, recreating this fast-food favorite at home is a breeze!
This recipe uses classic ingredients like fluffy white bread, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy American cheese. But the secret weapon?
A unique “cheese on the pan” technique that delivers that perfectly crisp exterior and gooey cheese pull you crave.
Get ready to ditch the drive-thru and whip up this satisfying Sonic-inspired grilled cheese in no time!
Gather The Simple Ingredients for Your Sonic Grilled Cheese:
| Pantry Staples (you likely already have these) | Shopping List | Variations (optional) |
| bread | 2 slices of cheddar cheese | Sonic Bacon Ranch sauce (for dipping) |
| butter | 2 slices of white bread (Texas toast for a thicker sandwich) | |
| salt | ||
| pepper |
Substitutions
You can substitute any type of cheese you like (Monterey Jack, mozzarella, etc.)
Pantry Staples vs. Shopping List Items
Pantry staples are ingredients that you typically have on hand in your kitchen. They are usually non-perishable items that have a long shelf life. In this recipe, the pantry staples are bread, butter, salt, and pepper.
Shopping list items are ingredients that you need to purchase for the recipe. In this recipe, the shopping list items are cheddar cheese and white bread (or Texas toast).
How To Make A Sonic Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
Butter bread, layer cheddar & American cheese with Sonic Bacon Ranch (or mayo + spices), grill on medium heat until golden and melty.
There isn’t an official recipe for Sonic’s grilled cheese, but there are copycat versions that capture the essence of their sandwich. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 4 slices of white bread (Texas toast for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 slices American cheese
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons Sonic Bacon Ranch sauce (for extra flavor)
Step 1
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
Step 2
Place 2 slices of bread, butter side down, in the skillet.
Step 3
Here’s the Sonic trick: While the bread cooks for a few seconds (about 10), place 2 slices of American cheese directly on the hot pan. Let the cheese soften slightly.
Step 4
Quickly place one slice of cheddar cheese on top of the softened American cheese on each bread slice.
Step 5
If you’re using Sonic Bacon Ranch sauce, add a tablespoon or two to each sandwich.
Top each cheesy concoction with the remaining bread slices, butter side facing up.
Step 6
Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Tips
- Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwich as it cooks to ensure even browning and melty cheese.
- For a richer flavor, try using a combination of cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack with the cheddar.
If you don’t have Sonic Bacon Ranch sauce, you can make your own with mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, a touch of sugar, and a sprinkle of bacon bits.
Elevate Your Sonic Grilled Cheese: Tips and Flavor Twists
Craving a classic Sonic grilled cheese but want to take it to the next level? Here are some tips and variations to turn that simple sandwich into a cheesy masterpiece:
Golden Goodness
Low and Slow: Cook over medium heat for even browning and prevent burnt bread.
Butter Magic: Use generous amounts of butter for a perfectly crisp exterior.
Melty Marvel
Shredded Advantage: Shred your own cheese for melty perfection compared to pre-shredded varieties.
Cheese Symphony: Experiment with different melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Havarti.
Spatula Savvy
Gentle Giant: Use a wide spatula to easily flip your sandwich without tearing.
Press Power: Gently press down on the sandwich to ensure even cooking and melty goodness.
Flavor Fiesta
Bread Bonanza: Swap white bread for Texas toast, sourdough, or rye for a flavor boost.
Cheese Duos: Combine cheddar with mozzarella or gruyere for a flavor explosion.
Veggie Vibrance: Add sliced tomatoes, caramelized onions, or spinach for a healthy twist.
Sonic Sauce Secrets: Craft your own Sonic Bacon Ranch sauce for an extra layer of deliciousness (link to separate recipe coming soon!).
FAQs
What cheese does Sonic use for grilled cheese?
Sonic uses American cheese on their grilled cheese sandwich. It melts nicely and complements the Texas toast they use.
What is on the Sonic grilled cheeseburger?
The Sonic Grilled Cheeseburger isn’t actually a menu item, but a combination of two! It combines a regular cheeseburger with a grilled cheese sandwich.
In other words, it has a beef patty, cheese, ketchup, mustard, pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato on a toasted bun, plus another layer of cheese and toasted Texas toast.
How do you grill a block of cheese?
Not all cheeses are grill-friendly. Choose a high melting point cheese like halloumi or queso fresco. Slice it thick (1/3 inch), brush with oil, and grill on medium-high heat for 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Enjoy!
Is it better to cut a sandwich vertical or diagonal?
There’s no “better” way! Vertical is simpler for even bites, diagonal looks fancy and offers more crust-free bites. Choose based on your priorities.
How do you cut a grilled cheese sandwich?
Diagonal is the classic cut for grilled cheese! It gives you more crusty points and keeps melty cheese from escaping the center.
Conclusion –Inspired Grilled Cheese Creation
This copycat recipe proves that restaurant-quality grilled cheese can be achieved right in your own kitchen. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can indulge in that melty, cheesy goodness whenever the craving strikes.
So grab your pan, fire up the stove, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of Sonic’s iconic grilled cheese – at home!
We’d love to hear your variations! Share your favorite add-ins or twists on this classic recipe in the comments below. And for a complete meal, pair your Sonic-inspired grilled cheese with a steaming bowl of tomato soup or a fresh side salad.
