Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Fusion

Featured in: Warm Earthy Dinners

This skillet toast highlights a flavorful pairing of sharp cheddar and tangy kimchi, layered between slices of sturdy sourdough and cooked until golden brown. Buttered on the exterior and gently pressed in a pan, it creates a crispy, melty sandwich with a unique fusion twist. Optional green onions and toasted sesame seeds add fresh and nutty notes. Ideal for a quick, satisfying meal that balances creamy cheese with fermented tang.

Updated on Fri, 28 Nov 2025 16:01:00 GMT
Golden, bubbly Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, oozing melted cheddar and kimchi filling. Save
Golden, bubbly Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, oozing melted cheddar and kimchi filling. | cocoaferns.com

A bold and savory grilled cheese sandwich featuring tangy kimchi and sharp cheddar, pan-toasted to golden perfection a fusion twist on a classic comfort food.

I first served this

Ingredients

  • Bread: 4 slices sturdy sourdough or country bread
  • Cheese: 120 g (4 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Kimchi: 100 g (about 1/2 cup) well-drained kimchi, chopped
  • Butter: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • Optional Additions: 1 tbsp sliced green onions, 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1:
Lay out the bread slices and spread butter evenly on one side of each slice.
Step 2:
Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
Step 3:
Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar on both slices.
Step 4:
Top with the chopped kimchi, spreading it out for even coverage. Add green onions and sesame seeds if using.
Step 5:
Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.
Step 6:
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
Step 7:
Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Step 8:
Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice in half and serve warm.
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| cocoaferns.com

Pair with tomato soup or a lightly dressed salad.

Required Tools

Skillet or frying pan, Spatula, Knife, Cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains Dairy (cheese, butter), Gluten (bread), Soy (possible in kimchi). Kimchi may contain seafood (fish sauce or shrimp paste) check ingredients if vegetarian or allergic. Always read product labels to confirm allergen status.

Nutritional Information

Calories 420, Total Fat 23 g, Carbohydrates 38 g, Protein 16 g

Perfectly browned Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, ready to be sliced and enjoyed with tomato soup. Save
Perfectly browned Skillet Kimchi & Cheddar Fusion Grilled Cheese, ready to be sliced and enjoyed with tomato soup. | cocoaferns.com

This grilled cheese fusion brings bold flavors and comforting textures together perfectly.

Recipe FAQs

What type of bread works best for this dish?

Sturdy sourdough or country bread is recommended to hold the filling and crisp nicely during pan-toasting.

Can I substitute cheddar cheese?

Yes, milder cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère can be used for a different flavor profile.

How should kimchi be prepared before use?

Kimchi should be well-drained and chopped finely to prevent excess moisture and ensure even distribution.

What is the best heat setting for cooking?

Cook over medium-low heat to allow the bread to crisp while melting the cheese without burning.

Are there any suggested toppings or add-ons?

Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds provide fresh and nutty accents that complement the main flavors.

How can I increase the outer crispiness?

Using mayonnaise instead of butter on the bread exterior enhances the crunch and browning.

Skillet Kimchi Cheddar Fusion

A bold, tangy, and cheesy skillet toast combining sharp cheddar and well-drained kimchi.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Time to Cook
10 minutes
Overall Time
20 minutes
Author: Maya Larkson

Recipe Category Warm Earthy Dinners

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Fusion (Korean-American)

Makes 2 Servings Amount

Diet Details Vegetarian-Friendly

What You Need

Bread

01 4 slices sturdy sourdough or country bread

Cheese

01 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Kimchi

01 ½ cup well-drained kimchi, chopped

Butter

01 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Optional Additions

01 1 tbsp sliced green onions
02 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Step 01

Prepare bread with butter: Spread softened unsalted butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.

Step 02

Assemble sandwich base: Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean work surface.

Step 03

Add shredded cheddar: Distribute shredded sharp cheddar evenly over the two bread slices.

Step 04

Incorporate kimchi and optional toppings: Top cheddar with chopped kimchi, spreading evenly. Add sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Step 05

Complete sandwich assembly: Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered sides facing outward.

Step 06

Heat skillet: Warm a skillet over medium-low heat.

Step 07

Cook sandwiches: Place sandwiches in skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.

Step 08

Rest and serve: Remove sandwiches from skillet, allow to rest for 1 minute, then slice in half and serve warm.

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Info

Always check every ingredient for allergens. If you're not sure, talk to a health expert.
  • Contains dairy (cheese, butter), gluten (bread), soy (possible in kimchi).
  • Kimchi may contain seafood (fish sauce or shrimp paste); verify ingredient labels if allergic or vegetarian.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Nutrition info shown is for guidance only. It cannot replace medical advice.
  • Calorie Count: 420
  • Fats: 23 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Proteins: 16 g