What’s more comforting than biting into a toasted cheese sandwich with golden, crunchy bread and cheese that stretches with every bite?
It’s one of those timeless, no-fuss meals that always hits the spot. Most of us grew up spreading softened butter onto our slices of bread before toasting, and truth be told, that already makes a pretty great sandwich. But there’s a secret ingredient sitting in your fridge that takes it from good to unforgettable: mayonnaise.
Try this recipe: Grilled cheese sandwich
How to add mayo to your grilled cheese
Some swear by butter alone, while others ditch it completely in favour of mayo. The truth? A combination of both gives you the best of everything – flavour, texture, and that picture-perfect golden crust.
The easiest way is to mix equal parts softened butter and mayonnaise, then spread the blend onto the outside of your bread before toasting. This little trick ensures even browning and just the right crunch. Whether you stick to a 1:1 ratio or lean slightly more towards mayo, you’ll end up with a sandwich that’s beautifully crisp on the outside and luxuriously melty inside.
Why mayonnaise works so well
So, what makes mayonnaise such a game-changer? According to food scientists, it comes down to how the ingredients react to heat. Mayonnaise, which is made with oil and egg yolks, contains iron. When toasted, this speeds up the browning process (something called the Maillard reaction), helping the bread develop that golden crust much quicker than butter alone can achieve.
Another advantage? Mayonnaise can handle higher heat before it starts to smoke and burn. Butter, with its milk solids and natural sugars, tends to scorch easily if the pan gets too hot. This means mayo gives you a little more leeway to get the bread perfectly crisp without worrying about bitter, burnt edges.
Butter vs. Mayonnaise (why not both?)
Butter on its own brings richness and that unmistakable flavour we all love. Mayonnaise, on the other hand, guarantees crunch and a flawless golden colour. Used together, they balance each other out beautifully:
- Texture: Crisp on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside.
- Flavour: Butter adds richness while mayo ensures the perfect crust.
- Even browning: The butter-mayo combo prevents uneven toasting and burnt spots.
- Cost-friendly: Butter can be pricey, but mayo is usually more affordable – chances are you already have both in your fridge.
A small change, A big upgrade
Next time you’re making a toasted cheese, try blending butter with mayo before spreading it on your bread. It’s a small tweak, but the results are undeniable – crunchier, tastier, and a little more indulgent. Pair it with a simple tomato soup, and you’ve got the ultimate comfort meal, no matter the weather.
ALSO SEE: EASY ROASTED TOMATO SOUP WITH CHEESE TOASTIES
Images: Pexels
