Swiss Mushroom Melt Recipe

Introduction

The Swiss Mushroom Melt is a savory sandwich loaded with tender sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese. This comforting melt combines earthy flavors with a hint of thyme and balsamic vinegar, perfect for a satisfying lunch or easy dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter (plus extra for bread)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 shallot (finely chopped)
• 2 cups mushrooms (Portobello, Cremini, or Shiitake, sliced)
• 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère for a richer taste)
• 8 slices bread (Rye, Sourdough, or Artisan)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until their moisture has evaporated.
2. Step 2: Add butter, olive oil, and chopped shallot to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms become golden.
3. Step 3: Stir in thyme, balsamic vinegar (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove the mixture from heat and set aside.
4. Step 4: Butter one side of each slice of bread.
5. Step 5: On the unbuttered side of four slices, layer Swiss cheese, the mushroom mixture, and another slice of cheese.
6. Step 6: Top each with another slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
7. Step 7: Cook the sandwiches in a skillet or panini press for 2–3 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted completely.

Tips & Variations

• Try using Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss for a richer, nuttier flavor.
• Adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the mushrooms enhances their earthiness.
• Substitute bread with gluten-free varieties if needed.
• For extra moisture, spread a thin layer of mustard or mayonnaise on the non-buttered side of the bread before layering cheese and mushrooms.

Storage

Store leftover melts wrapped in foil or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to retain a crispy crust and melted cheese. Avoid using a microwave to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes, any firm mushrooms like button or shiitake work well. Mixing several varieties can also add great texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Butter the outside of the bread slices and make sure the mushrooms are cooked until moisture evaporates. Using a hot pan or panini press helps achieve a crispy exterior quickly.

Swiss Mushroom Melt Recipe

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4.5 from 765 reviews

The Swiss Mushroom Melt is a savory, comforting sandwich featuring sautéed mushrooms layered with melted Swiss cheese between buttered slices of artisan bread. This recipe combines earthy mushrooms with fresh thyme and the rich, nutty flavor of Swiss cheese, cooked to golden perfection in a skillet or panini press for a warm and hearty meal.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Lunch
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mushroom Mixture

• 2 tbsp butter (plus extra for bread)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cups mushrooms (Portobello, Cremini, or Shiitake), sliced
• 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sandwich

• 4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère for a richer taste)
• 8 slices bread (Rye, Sourdough, or Artisan)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until their moisture evaporates, giving them a nice sear and a concentrated flavor.
2. Sauté with Shallots: Add butter, olive oil, and finely chopped shallots to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms become golden and the shallots are soft and fragrant.
3. Add Flavorings: Stir in fresh or dried thyme, balsamic vinegar if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Once combined, remove the mixture from heat and set aside.
4. Butter the Bread: Take each slice of bread and butter one side generously. This will create a crispy, golden exterior once cooked.
5. Assemble the Sandwich: On the unbuttered side of half the bread slices, layer a slice of Swiss cheese, then evenly distribute the mushroom mixture on top, followed by another slice of cheese for extra melty goodness.
6. Close the Sandwich: Place the remaining bread slices over the fillings with the buttered side facing up, completing the sandwich.
7. Cook the Melt: Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Cook each sandwich for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has fully melted, pressing gently if using a skillet.
8. Serve: Remove from heat, slice if desired, and serve warm for the best melted cheese and mushroom flavor experience.

Notes

• If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, substitute Swiss with Gruyère cheese.
• The balsamic vinegar adds a subtle tanginess but can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste.
• Ensure mushrooms are cooked until moisture evaporates to avoid soggy sandwiches.
• You can add fresh spinach or arugula inside the sandwich for extra greens and texture.
• Use stale bread if possible, as it grills better and holds up to the filling without becoming overly soft.

Keywords: Swiss mushroom melt, mushroom sandwich, grilled cheese, vegetarian melt, sautéed mushrooms sandwich