Goat Cheese Grilled Cheese with Honey & Spice

Okay — we've gotta keep a sense of normalcy wherever we can, right? That's why I'm still going ahead with my grilled cheese recipe of the month, and for March it happens to be a goat cheese grilled cheese with honey and red pepper flakes. Dig in!

It's no secret goat cheese + red pepper flakes + honey is one of my favorite combinations. It only makes sense to make a goat cheese grilled cheese with those added into it! 

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The secret to my goat cheese grilled cheese

Here's the thing with this recipe I really need you to know: the ingredient quantities are just guidelines!

Grilled cheese recipes are tricky in a way. Unless everyone is using the same size and type of bread, you'll need different amounts of cheese, butter, and fillings.

And some of us like a grilled cheese sandwich that's packed to the brim with cheese (*raises hand*) while others prefer a more modest amount of cheese.

There's really nothing modest about this grilled cheese. It's super rich and flavorful.

If you're serving it with tomato soup, you might only eat half for dipping and save the rest for later. I mean, I can never resist finishing the whole thing but maybe you will. 

By the way, you can click here for my favorite tomato soup recipe that's perfect for dipping grilled cheese into...Yum!

So keep that in mind while you're making this goat cheese grilled cheese. My guidelines err on the side of "more is more."

But I think it's always better to overdo it with butter/cheese. etc., than the other way around. 

By the way, I have a new page with a bunch of helpful links. It has links to my social profiles, LTK, Amazon Storefront, etc. There's NO pressure to shop from any of these links, but if you're curious about the kitchen products I use, etc., that's where you'll find them. As always, your support is SO appreciated!

Check out all that cheese and honey loaded on!

Here's what you need

Planning to try this goat cheese grilled cheese for yourself? You've made a wise choice.

Here's what you'll need:

• Butter. I like using really good quality, grass-fed butter for grilled cheese sandwiches. It makes a difference!
• Red pepper flakes
• Thick, good quality white bread. I buy a loaf unsliced and then cut it myself so I can make the pieces nice and thick.
• Crumbled, plain goat cheese.
• Shredded white cheddar cheese. Shredded mozzarella works too. 
• Liquid honey. You want to be able to drizzle it all over the bread rather than spreading it. 

When you melt the butter with the red pepper flakes in it and let it all cook together for about five minutes, the butter gets infused with the spice from the red pepper. If you notice some of the flakes stick in the pan when you flip your sandwich, you can sprinkle more on when you serve it. 

Other gourmet grilled cheese recipes

Can't get enough grilled cheese? Me neither! Luckily, I've got plenty more recipes where this came from.

• MOZZARELLA STICK GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH
• GARLIC SAGE BUTTER GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH
• BEST GRILLED CHEESE EVER: A 10-SECOND HACK!
• GOURMET GRILLED CHEESE WITH BRIE, APPLES, AND RASPBERRY

Time to eat!

📖 Recipe

I hope this recipe makes your day. Please let me know how it turns out!

XO - Chelsea

Got a craving for more goat cheese recipes?

Check these out:

• SAVORY BREAD PUDDING WITH GOAT CHEESE & HONEY
• BUTTERNUT SQUASH MAC & CHEESE WITH GOAT CHEESE 
• THE BEST EVER BAKED GOAT CHEESE DIP APPETIZER

Grilled Cheese FAQs

Here's more info and tips for making the best-ever grilled cheese. After this, be sure to keep reading for more info about goat cheese too!

What's the best bread to use for grilled cheese?

Traditional white bread is a classic choice due to its soft texture and ability to crisp up well. However, artisanal breads such as sourdough or rye can add depth of flavor. Choose bread that's not too holey, so the cheese doesn’t leak out. I usually use a French loaf or sourdough. 

Which cheese melts the best?

Medium to soft cheeses tend to melt the best. American, cheddar, gruyere, fontina, and Monterey Jack are popular choices. Combining cheeses is a fun way to get a delicious mix of flavors and textures.

Butter or mayonnaise on the outside?

Both work, but they give different results. Butter provides a rich flavor, while mayonnaise tends to give a crisper result. Try both and see which you prefer! Sometimes it just depends what you have on hand too. 

What's the best heat setting for grilling?

A medium-low heat ensures the bread doesn't burn while giving the cheese ample time to melt.

How do I know when to flip it?

Once the bottom is golden brown and crisp, it's time to flip. This usually takes about 2-4 minutes, but keep an eye on it.

Can I add other fillings?

Sure! Tomatoes, apples, pickles, jams, and all sorts of things can be added. Just be careful not to overstuff, or it might not hold together well. For meat eaters, you can also add bacon or other grilled-cheese friendly meats.

Why is my cheese not melting?

This could be due to high heat cooking the bread too quickly or using a cheese that doesn't melt easily. Ensure you're using meltable cheese and cooking at a medium-low heat.

How can I make my grilled cheese healthier?

If you muuuust...Opt for whole grain bread, use less butter or mayo, and consider adding veggies like spinach or avocado.

Can I make grilled cheese in an oven or toaster oven?

Yep. Toast the bread lightly first, then add your cheese and any other ingredients, and broil until the cheese is melty and the top is golden.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?

It's best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a pan on low heat to recrisp the bread and melt the cheese.

Remember, like any beloved dish, the "best" grilled cheese is subjective. Experiment with different breads, cheeses, and fillings to find your personal favorite!

What is goat cheese?
Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, is cheese made from goat's milk. It can range from soft and creamy to hard and crumbly, depending on its age and processing.

How does goat cheese taste?

Goat cheese has a distinct tangy flavor, often described as earthy with a slight tartness. The taste can vary depending on the specific type and age of the cheese. I find it really palatable and delicious which is why I use it in so many recipes!

Is goat cheese healthier than cow's cheese?

Goat cheese is often easier to digest because its fat molecules are smaller than those in cow's milk. It's also slightly lower in fat and calories. However, both cheeses have their own nutritional benefits.

Why is goat cheese often softer than other cheeses?

The fatty acids in goat's milk produce a softer curd when coagulated, resulting in a generally softer texture. However, there are hard varieties of goat cheese as well.

Can lactose-intolerant individuals consume goat cheese?

Goat cheese contains lactose, but in slightly lower amounts than cow’s milk cheese. Some lactose-intolerant people say they can tolerate goat cheese better, but it varies from person to person.

What dishes pair well with goat cheese?

Goat cheese is versatile. It can be used in salads, on pizza, in pasta dishes, spread on bread, or served with fruit and honey as a dessert. It's also delightful when paired with wines, particularly those that have a slight acidity like Sauvignon Blanc.

How should I store goat cheese?

Keep it refrigerated in its original packaging or in an airtight container. If it starts to dry out, you can drizzle it with olive oil.

Is goat cheese always white?

Most goat cheese is white because goat's milk lacks the beta-carotene found in cow's milk. Beta-carotene gives cow's milk cheeses like cheddar their orange color.