Crispy Prosciutto & Burrata Grilled Cheese

The first time I made this grilled cheese, I was working late and just wanted something that felt like comfort food but fancied up. My roommate walked in and literally stopped mid sentence, asking what smelled so incredible. The combination of crispy salty prosciutto with that creamy burrata is absolute magic.

I made these for my parents last Sunday when they dropped by unexpectedly. My dad usually complains about fancy food but he went back for seconds and actually asked if I had more prosciutto. Now every time they visit, there is this unspoken question about whether the grilled cheese is happening.

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough or rustic country bread: Sourdough gives you that perfect tangy crunch and holds up well against all that creamy cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter spreads evenly so every inch gets that golden crispy treatment
• 4 slices prosciutto: Getting it crispy in the pan first is the game changer that elevates this beyond regular grilled cheese
• 1 ball burrata cheese, about 4 ounces: The creamy interior melts beautifully while the outer layer adds richness
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves: Optional but adds this fresh bright note that cuts through all the richness
• Freshly ground black pepper: A few grinds really pulls everything together and highlights the prosciutto

Instructions

Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

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Prep your bread:

Lay out all your bread slices and spread one side of each with softened butter, making sure to cover every corner for even browning.

Crisp the prosciutto:

Heat your skillet over medium heat and cook the prosciutto slices for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they are perfectly crispy, then transfer to paper towels.

Build the sandwiches:

Place two bread slices butter side down, tear and distribute the burrata evenly, then top with crispy prosciutto, basil if using, and pepper.

Grill to perfection:

Cook sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with your spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is warm and melty.

Quickly slice, dice, grate, and spiralize vegetables for salads, stir fries, and faster everyday meal prep.

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This sandwich has become my go to for dinner when I want something special but do not want to actually cook. There is something so satisfying about cutting into that golden bread and watching the burrata ooze out.

Make It Vegetarian

Skipping the prosciutto does not mean sacrificing flavor. Roasted red peppers add sweetness and depth while sun dried tomatoes bring that umami punch. You could also try thinly sliced zucchini that has been grilled ahead of time.

Serving Suggestions

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio cuts through the richness beautifully. If you prefer beer, a light Italian lager works perfectly. I have also served this alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Flavor Boosters

Sometimes I drizzle a little honey or balsamic glaze inside before closing the sandwich. A thin layer of fig jam pairs surprisingly well with the salty prosciutto. You could also add a few arugula leaves for a peppery bite.

• Let the bread come to room temperature before grilling for even browning
• Use a spatula to press down gently but do not smash too hard
• Serve immediately while the cheese is still molten and gooey

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

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Hope this brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine.

Questions & Answers

→ Why cook prosciutto separately before assembling?

Cooking prosciutto in the dry skillet first allows the moisture to evaporate, creating a crispy texture rather than chewy meat. This prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy and ensures even browning of the bread.

→ Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of burrata?

Yes, fresh mozzarella works well as a substitute. However, burrata's creamy center provides a richer, more luxurious texture. If using mozzarella, slice it thinner to help it melt evenly during cooking.

→ What bread works best for this sandwich?

Sourdough and rustic country bread are ideal because they have a sturdy crumb structure that holds up to butter and melted cheese without falling apart. Artisan bread with good crust also provides textural contrast.

→ How do I prevent the sandwich from burning outside while cheese melts inside?

Use medium heat and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. A spatula pressed gently on top helps distribute heat evenly. If needed, reduce heat to medium-low to allow more time for cheese to melt without over-browning the bread.

→ Can this be made ahead or reheated?

Best served immediately after cooking for optimal texture. If making ahead, assemble the sandwich and refrigerate up to 2 hours, then pan-fry when ready. Reheating can cause the bread to dry out, so fresh preparation is recommended.

→ What beverages pair well with this sandwich?

Crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino complement the richness beautifully. Light Italian lagers or pale ales work well for beer pairings. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or iced tea.