Mayo instead of butter on grilled cheese

A mayo grilled cheese is a fun and fabulous spin on a traditional buttered grilled cheese sandwich. Mayo grilled cheese is something you simply must try for a comparison to the much-loved classic!

This method of making a grilled cheese has true benefits, including a higher smoke point for mayo (resulting in a sandwich you’re less likely to burn) and easier accessibility. You’re more likely to have creamy mayo in your fridge than softened butter, right?

Learn the ins and outs of a mayo grilled cheese, including how and why you should make one for lunch today!

Lately, I’ve been feeling incredibly inspired by the simplest comfort foods for our weekday lunches and weekends at the lake. Grilled cheese sandwiches are such a family favorite around here!

There’s just something about the easygoing joy of a warm toasted sandwich, oozing with creamy cheese.

I love that I can grab a variety of cheeses and fresh bread to ensure we have something for everyone… because who doesn’t love a grilled cheese?

I’ve been developing some incredible grilled cheese combos, and I can’t wait to share them all with you. Check out this Gourmet Grilled Cheese, classic Grilled Ham and Cheese and this delicious Grilled Cheese on the Grill for more great ideas!

Today, I wanted to share the results of my latest experiment: mayo grilled cheese! Yes, you can use mayonnaise on the inside of your grilled cheese, and you can also use it in place of butter, for toasting in the pan.

Is your mind blown, or have you tried the mayonnaise grilled cheese trick? It’s one of those widely debated food controversies that results in varying opinions, of course… and I think today is the day you should try it!

• Why You’ll Love it
• Mayo Grilled Cheese Ingredients
• Variations
• How to Make a Mayo Grilled Cheese in Just Four Easy Steps
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How to Store
• Dietary Considerations
• More Easy Sandwiches
• Mayo Grilled Cheese
  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • Tips
  • Video
  • Nutrition Information
• Did you make this?
  • Tag me on Instagram

Why You’ll Love it

• mayo has a higher smoke point and is less likely to burn as you’re cooking your grilled cheese
• It’s readily available – no more waiting on softened butter
• Mayonnaise is easier to spread on your bread
• Crispier crust

Mayo Grilled Cheese Ingredients

• Bread – For a classic grilled cheese with mayonnaise, choose a super fresh sandwich bread, or try my favorite homemade Artisan Bread. But get creative and use your favorite bread if you’d prefer!
• Cheese – We love buying our cheese from the high quality deli blocks of at our local grocer. Of course you can choose any cheese you’d like, but try American cheese, cheddar, gouda or gruyere.
• Mayo – You can use your favorite type of mayonnaise, but a traditional full fat version is probably best for the higher heat properties and flavor. You can even make your own Homemade Mayonnaise if you want!

*Don’t use Miracle Whip. I repeat… do not use Miracle Whip! Save that for your Deviled Eggs!

Variations

• Use any bread you’d like. Read more about the Best Bread for Grilled Cheese.
• Experiment with cheese, too! Try gouda, gruyere, or white cheddar for fresh spin.
• Add more protein with deli meat! Try ham, salami, prosciutto, bacon, pancetta, capicola, or guanciale.
• Use a flavored mayo or even a Garlic Aioli, Bacon Aioli, Pesto Aioli, or Truffle Aioli for a gourmet spin.

How to Make a Mayo Grilled Cheese in Just Four Easy Steps

1. Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. 
2. Warm skillet to medium heat. Place one slice of bread mayonnaise side down, top with cheese and a second slice of bread mayonnaise side up. 
3. Grill 2-21/2 minutes until bread is slightly golden in color. Use a spatula to flip.
4. Grill other side 2-21/2 minutes until golden brown. 

Tips

• The key to a great grilled cheese is great bread. Experiment to find your family favorites! Read more about the Best Bread for Grilled Cheese.
• High quality cheese is important too. Choose cheese that it is fresh sliced from your local deli – or buy a fresh block and grate it yourself.
• The more even the slice of bread, the more evenly it will brown.

Scaling up, down or substituting? You’ll love this printable Measurement Conversion Chart!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mayo or butter better for grilled cheese?

This is actually a matter of personal preference, as both mayonnaise and butter will give you an excellent level of toast and flavor. Mayo is often a little more convenient, but the taste is not for everyone!

Butter is a more traditional flavor, but if you don’t have softened butter readily available, give mayo a try.

Does grilled cheese taste better with mayo?

It’s totally a personal preference! A mayo grilled cheese is something everyone should try at least once, to decide if they love it more than a traditional buttered grilled cheese.

How to Store

• At Room Temperature – Mayo grilled cheese sandwiches can sit out while serving for up to two hours safely. Of course, they are absolutely best when they’re hot out of the skillet.
• Refrigerate – You can refrigerate your grilled cheese with mayo for up to three days when wrapped in an airtight container. Slowly reheat in your skillet after bringing it to room temperature for 30 minutes (allowing for more even heat in the skillet).
• Freeze – Flash freeze on a sheet pan before wrapping tightly and storing in your freezer for up to three months.

Dietary Considerations

• Nut Free
• To make this grilled cheese gluten free, simply choose a gluten free bread product.

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More Easy Sandwiches

• Oven Grilled Cheese
• Ham and Cheese Sliders
• Gerber Sandwich
• Party and Picnic Sandwiches
• Easy French Dip with Au Jus

Did you make this? Rate the recipe and tag me on social @julieblanner!