The Disneyland Grilled Cheese Sandwich: a legendary dish that has delighted park-goers for years. Now, you can recreate this magical culinary experience right in your own kitchen! In this comprehensive, step-by-step guide, we will reveal how to prepare this delectable sandwich, including the unique cream cheese spread and garlic spread that make it so special.
To make a Disneyland Grilled Cheese, you’ll need cream cheese, cheddar, and provolone cheese, artisan bread, and ingredients for a cream cheese spread and garlic spread. Prepare the spreads first, then assemble the sandwich with 2 slices each of cheddar and provolone and a portion of cream cheese spread. Cook the sandwich on a pre-heated skillet, with the garlic spread on the outside, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Ingredients You Need
The Disneyland Grilled Cheese Sandwich uses three types of cheese: cream cheese, cheddar, and provolone. Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need:
- Cream Cheese Spread:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Double Gloucester or sharp cheddar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- Garlic Spread:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
- Grilled Four-Cheese Sandwich:
- 8 slices of artisan bread
- 8 medium cheddar cheese slices
- 8 provolone slices
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: Combine the cream cheese, shredded cheese, heavy cream, and coarse salt in a food processor. Pulse until you have a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Prepare the Garlic Spread: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and coarse salt. Stir until well blended.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out your slices of bread. Place 2 slices of cheddar on 4 of the bread slices, and 2 slices of provolone on the other 4 slices. Divide your cream cheese spread into 4 portions, and spread each portion onto the provolone halves. Then, place your cheddar-slice bread on top, so the cream cheese spread is sandwiched between the provolone and cheddar slices.
- Cook the Sandwich: Heat a heavy-duty skillet on medium heat. Spread the garlic spread onto each side of the sandwich. Place a sandwich into the skillet and cook for 2 minutes. Then flip the sandwich and cook for 2 minutes on the other side. The bread should be golden brown and the cheese should be mostly melted.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Sandwich
- Cheese Selection: The selection of cheeses is crucial. The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and provolone gives this sandwich its unique flavor profile.
- Cooking Technique: Be sure to heat your skillet before adding the sandwich. This will ensure that your bread gets a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
- Serving Suggestions: For a truly authentic Disneyland experience, serve your grilled cheese with a side of tomato soup. The tangy, savory soup perfectly complements the rich, gooey cheese.
Dietary Modifications
The Disneyland Grilled Cheese Sandwich can be modified to suit various dietary needs. For a vegan option, substitute dairy cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives and use a non-dairy cream alternative. If you’re gluten-intolerant, replace the bread with a gluten-free variety. For a low-fat, low-sodium, or low-cholesterol diet, opt for low-fat, low-sodium cheese alternatives and control the amount of added salt.
Final Thoughts
The Disneyland Grilled Cheese Sandwich is more than just a sandwich; it’s a culinary adventure that brings a bit of Disneyland magic into your home. With this comprehensive guide, you now have everything you need to recreate this beloved treat. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese. However, the unique flavor of the Disneyland Grilled Cheese Sandwich comes from the combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and provolone. If you choose to use other cheeses, the flavor profile may change.
What type of bread should I use?
The recipe calls for artisan bread, but you can use any type of bread that you prefer. Just bear in mind that denser breads tend to hold up better when grilling.
Can I prepare the cream cheese and garlic spreads in advance?
Absolutely! Both the cream cheese and garlic spreads can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can save you time when you’re ready to cook your sandwiches.
How do I know when the sandwich is done cooking?
You’ll know the sandwich is done when the bread is golden brown and the cheese is mostly melted. Be careful not to overcook the sandwich, as this can make the bread too hard and the cheese too runny.
Can I make this sandwich in a sandwich press or Panini press?
Yes, you can use a sandwich press or Panini press to make this sandwich. If you do, you may not need to flip the sandwich as the press will cook both sides at the same time. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model.