Crispy Blueberry Grilled Cheese – A Sweet and Savory Twist

Grilled cheese is one of those comfort foods everyone knows, but this unique version takes it to an entirely new level. The combination of melted white cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and warm juicy blueberries creates a sweet-savory sandwich that tastes like something straight from a gourmet café.
This recipe is easy, quick, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy evening snack when you want something special without much effort. Once you try the contrast of tart blueberries with gooey cheese, you’ll wonder why you never made this combination before.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Sweet + savory perfection: Blueberries add brightness, while cheddar and mozzarella melt into a rich, creamy layer.
  • Crispy exterior: Buttered sourdough gives the sandwich a golden, crunchy crust.
  • Easy to customize: Swap cheeses, change the bread, or try different berries.
  • Quick: Ready in under 30–40 minutes.

Ingredients

Blueberry Lemon Thyme Jam

  • 1 pint fresh blueberries
  • ¼ cup white sugar
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 small bundle of lemon thyme (tied with kitchen string)

Sandwiches

  • 8 slices sourdough bread (¼-inch thick)
  • 4 oz white cheddar cheese, grated
  • 4 oz whole-milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • Flaky sea salt, for finishing
  • Extra lemon thyme leaves (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Make the Blueberry Lemon Thyme Jam

  1. Place the blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon thyme bundle in a saucepan.
  2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Lower heat and cook another 10 minutes, stirring often, until thick and jammy.
  5. Remove the lemon thyme bundle and let the mixture cool for 10 minutes.

Step 2 – Prepare the Sandwich Layers

  1. Lay 4 slices of sourdough on a flat surface.
  2. Spread a generous layer of the cooled blueberry jam on each slice.
  3. Combine the cheddar and mozzarella, then sprinkle the cheese mixture over the jam.
  4. Place the remaining 4 slices of sourdough on top to form sandwiches.

Step 3 – Grill the Sandwiches

  1. Heat a cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
  3. Place two sandwiches in the pan and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until golden and crisp.
  5. Flip carefully and cook the other side for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts.
  6. Transfer the cooked sandwiches to a board.
  7. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and repeat with the last two sandwiches.

Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy

  1. Cut each sandwich in half.
  2. Sprinkle flaky sea salt and fresh lemon thyme leaves on top.
  3. Serve immediately while hot, crispy, and melty.
Crispy Blueberry Grilled Cheese

Substitutions and Variations

Try different cheeses

  • Gruyère
  • Fontina
  • Brie
  • Provolone

Try different breads

  • Brioche
  • Country white
  • Whole grain
  • Ciabatta

Try different fruits

  • Blackberries
  • Raspberries
  • Cherries
  • Fig jam

Add-ons

  • A drizzle of honey
  • Crushed walnuts or pecans
  • A thin layer of cream cheese
  • Lemon zest inside the sandwich

What to Serve With Blueberry Grilled Cheese

This sandwich pairs beautifully with:

  • Tomato soup
  • Light green salad
  • Sweet potato fries
  • A warm cup of tea or coffee

For brunch, pair it with yogurt, fresh fruit, or a smoothie.

Storage and Reheating

Storing the jam

  • Keep blueberry jam in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Storing sandwiches

  • Best eaten fresh.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 1–2 days.

Reheating

  • Wrap in foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes.
  • Or warm in a pan on low heat to restore crispiness.

Estimated Time and Nutrition

Total time

  • Prep: 10–15 minutes
  • Cooking: 20–30 minutes
  • Total: 30–45 minutes

Approximate nutrition (entire recipe)

  • Calories: 1600–1800
  • Protein: 40–50 g
  • Fat: 90–100 g
  • Carbs: 160–180 g

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