Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Cranberry Brie & Mozzarella Grilled Sandwich is the perfect marriage of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors tucked between golden, buttery bread. Brie brings a luxurious creaminess, mozzarella adds a gooey stretch, and cranberry sauce lends a sweet-tart note that cuts through the richness beautifully. This sandwich is not only comforting but also elegant, making it ideal for a quick gourmet lunch, a holiday leftover creation, or even as a party-ready appetizer. Each bite delivers a balance of crispy crunch from the toasted bread, melty cheese goodness, and bright cranberry zing. It is a recipe that transforms a humble grilled sandwich into something truly special, offering both sophistication and soul-satisfying comfort.
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Cranberry Brie & Mozzarella Grilled Sandwich: A Gourmet Twist on Comfort Food
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A gourmet grilled sandwich filled with melty brie, gooey mozzarella, and tangy cranberry sauce, perfectly toasted for a sweet and savory bite.
Ingredients
- 8 slices rustic bread (such as sourdough or French bread)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place 4 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Layer with slices of brie, mozzarella, and a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
- Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Remove from skillet, slice in half, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a few slices of roasted turkey or ham.
- Use whole berry cranberry sauce for more texture.
- Best served warm when cheese is gooey.
- You can swap mozzarella with fontina or provolone for a richer taste.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling (Stovetop)
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Brie Cheese – Brings luxurious creaminess and a mild, buttery flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese – Adds gooey, stretchy melt that balances the richness of the Brie.
Cranberry Sauce – Provides a sweet-tart layer that complements the cheeses perfectly.
Bread Slices – Use hearty artisan bread, sourdough, or brioche for a sturdy and flavorful base.
Butter – Spread on the bread to achieve a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
Fresh Thyme (optional) – Adds a subtle herbal note that enhances the cranberry and cheese flavors.
Salt and Black Pepper – Light seasoning to bring balance and highlight the natural flavors.
Directions
Begin by spreading a thin layer of cranberry sauce on one slice of bread. Layer slices of Brie and mozzarella generously on top. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and thyme if using. Place another slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
Spread butter evenly on the outsides of both bread slices. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and place the sandwich butter-side down. Cook until the bread turns golden brown and crisp, pressing lightly with a spatula. Flip and repeat on the other side until the cheese is melted and gooey.
For best results, cover the skillet briefly with a lid after flipping to help the cheese melt fully without over-toasting the bread. Slice in half and serve warm, with extra cranberry sauce on the side if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 sandwiches. Preparation takes about 5 minutes, and cooking requires 8–10 minutes, making it ready in under 15 minutes.
Storage/reheating
These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispness; avoid microwaving, as it will make the bread soggy.
Variations and Customizations
Turkey Addition – Add sliced turkey for a post-holiday leftover upgrade.
Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle in toasted pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
Spicy Kick – Add a layer of jalapeños or a drizzle of hot honey.
Different Bread – Try ciabatta, rye, or multigrain bread for variety.
Apple Slices – Add thinly sliced apples for extra sweetness and crunch.
Caramelized Onions – Layer in onions for a savory balance to the cranberry.
Herbed Butter – Mix fresh herbs into the butter for extra flavor.
Bacon Twist – Add crispy bacon for smoky, salty depth.
Vegan Option – Use dairy-free cheeses and vegan butter for a plant-based version.
Mini Party Sliders – Make with small rolls for bite-sized appetizers.
FAQs
Can I use canned cranberry sauce?
Yes, both homemade and canned versions work well.
What type of bread is best?
Sourdough or artisan bread provides sturdiness and great flavor.
Can I make this in a panini press?
Yes, it works perfectly and saves flipping time.
Can I use only one type of cheese?
Yes, but the Brie-Mozzarella combo gives the best balance of creaminess and stretch.
How do I keep cheese from oozing out?
Do not overfill and cook over medium heat for even melting.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Brie & Mozzarella Grilled Sandwich takes a simple comfort food to gourmet heights. With melty cheese, tangy cranberry, and crisp buttery bread, it delivers the perfect mix of flavors and textures. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe is ideal for weeknight meals, holiday leftovers, or a cozy lunch. Elegant yet easy, it’s the kind of dish that makes an ordinary day feel a little more special.