Welcome to a warm bite of comfort that feels like home! The Grilled Cheese and Jam Sandwich is not your average childhood throwback. With layers of creamy cheese, savory bacon, and a sweet jam twist, this sandwich takes familiar flavors to bold new places. Love mixing sweet and savory flavors between buttery, crispy bread? You’re about to find your new go-to sandwich—it’s that good.
Perfect for lunch, brunch, or even a cozy dinner, this recipe brings comfort and creativity together—just like we love to do at Recipes2Gather.com. Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing brunch guests, or just treating yourself to a solo indulgence, this sandwich is all joy, no fuss. Let’s dig into the sandwich that’s all about togetherness—one melty bite at a time.
Key Benefits
What makes the Grilled Cheese and Jam Sandwich truly special is its unique blend of textures and flavors. This sandwich isn’t just filling—it’s an experience for your taste buds. Here’s why you’ll love making this sandwich a regular part of your kitchen rotation:
- Savory and Sweet Harmony: The combination of sharp cheddar or creamy ricotta with thick-cut bacon and sweet strawberry jam hits every taste note just right.
- Super Quick to Make: From pan to plate in under 15 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy days when you want big flavor without the time sink.
- Totally Customizable: Not into bacon? Sub it for prosciutto or skip it for a vegetarian delight. Try different jams—fig, raspberry, even pepper jelly—to make it yours.
- Kid- and Adult-Friendly: It’s gooey enough for kids to love, and elevated enough to impress adults at brunch.
This sandwich fits right into the theme of joyful cooking—minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a surprising twist. If you’re a fan of cheese innovations, you’ll also enjoy our starbucks grilled cheese bliss or explore the indulgence in a grilled cheese burrito. The Jim version? A star in its own right.
Ingredients for Grilled Cheese and Jim Sandwich
To make this sandwich a reality, here’s what you’ll need. Chances are, you’ve got most of these ingredients sitting in your kitchen right now:
- 2 slices thick brioche or sourdough bread
- 2 tbsp softened butter (for toasting)
- 3–4 slices cooked bacon (crispy is key)
- 2 tbsp ricotta cheese (or cream cheese for more tang)
- 2 tbsp strawberry jam (or your favorite fruit preserve)
- Optional pinch of sea salt or crushed red pepper (to enhance flavor)
Each ingredient brings its own magic. The buttery bread becomes golden and crisp, ricotta adds richness, and the jam offers that sweet surprise. If you’re curious about cheese pairings, you might enjoy our breakdown on American cheese and other melty options.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Grilled Cheese and Jim Sandwich
Ready to build something crave-worthy? Let’s walk through each step to make this cheesy, jam-packed sandwich just right:
- First, slather one side of each bread slice with softened butter—this helps you get that golden crunch. These will be the outer sides that hit the pan.
- Assemble the sandwich: On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer your ricotta cheese evenly, followed by crispy bacon, and a generous spread of strawberry jam.
- Top and press: Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side out, and press down gently.
- Warm up a skillet on medium heat. Cook your sandwich for 3–4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden and the inside is gooey and warm.
- Serve hot: Slice in half and serve immediately.
This recipe is a breeze, but if you’re new to melting cheeses and want more ideas, check out our muenster cheese guide—it might inspire your next cheesy creation.
Pro Tips and Variations for Grilled Cheese and Jim Sandwich
- Try switching up your jam—fig or pepper jelly adds a fun, fancy kick you’ll love.
- Make it spicy: Add a thin layer of jalapeño jelly or sprinkle crushed red pepper into the ricotta.
- Herb it up: Mix a pinch of thyme or rosemary into your cheese spread for a savory uplift.
- Add crunch: Toss in thin apple slices or crushed walnuts for a fun texture contrast.
Tips for success:
- Keep the heat at medium so your cheese gets nice and melty while the bread turns golden, not burnt.
- Use day-old bread if possible—it toasts up better and holds the filling without getting soggy.
- For an even melt, cover the skillet loosely for the first couple of minutes.
Looking for another sweet-savory pairing? Try our candied yams—they make a beautiful side dish for this sandwich at brunch.
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Cheese and Jim Sandwich
This sandwich is plenty satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking to build a full meal, here are some serving ideas:
- This sandwich loves company—serve it with something cozy like tomato or butternut squash soup.
- Make it brunch-worthy: Add a side of arugula salad with balsamic glaze and a light mimosa.
- Turn it into a platter: Serve alongside mini fruit skewers and a small ramekin of extra jam for dipping.
- Go sweet and savory: Pair it with a light dessert like our churro cheesecake for a delightful finish.
This sandwich also works as an elevated snack for parties—cut into quarters and arrange on a board with fresh herbs for a cozy, casual vibe.
Trasted Ressources for Grilled Cheese and Jam Sandwich
- This Healthline guide explains the nutritional benefits of ricotta cheese.
- Discover Bon Appétit’s favorite jams to try in your sandwich.
- Learn how bacon adds depth and flavor with minimal effort.
- Find safe butter storage tips for better results every time.
Conclusion
The grilled cheese and Jim sandwich is where comfort food meets creativity. It’s a warm, toasty bite of joy that anyone can make, whether you’re in a rush or planning a cozy weekend meal. With its melty center and perfectly balanced flavors, this recipe fits right into the heart of Recipes2Gather’s mission: making cooking joyful, simple, and totally satisfying.
You don’t have to be a gourmet chef to impress—just someone who loves great food made with heart. Keep exploring and trust your taste buds. And remember, every sandwich is a chance to gather, connect, and enjoy.
Print
Grilled Cheese and Jam Sandwich That Will Totally Wow You
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This grilled cheese and Jim sandwich blends buttery toasted bread, creamy ricotta, crisp bacon, and sweet strawberry jam for a craveable sweet-savory experience.
Ingredients
- 2 slices brioche or sourdough bread
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 3–4 slices cooked bacon
- 2 tbsp ricotta cheese or cream cheese
- 2 tbsp strawberry jam
- Optional: pinch of sea salt or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Butter the outer sides of the bread slices.
- Spread ricotta on the inner side of one slice.
- Top with cooked bacon and strawberry jam.
- Place the second slice on top, buttered side out.
- Grill in a skillet over medium heat, 3–4 minutes per side until golden and warm.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fig or jalapeño jam for a twist.
- Add thin apple slices or herbs for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: grilled cheese and jim sandwich, savory jam sandwich
FAQs
What kind of cheese works best for this sandwich?
Ricotta or cream cheese are ideal for this recipe, but brie or goat cheese also add a rich, creamy finish.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip the bacon or use a plant-based substitute for that savory layer.
Is it good cold or only warm?
t’s best warm, but surprisingly delicious at room temp too—just keep the bread from getting soggy.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
You can cook the bacon and prep the spreads in advance, then assemble and grill fresh in under 5 minutes.