Hey there, fellow food lovers! Have you ever wanted to elevate your grilled cheese game to something downright legendary? Well, you’re in for a treat! Inspired by a mouth-watering recipe from Spicy Southern Kitchen, I’m going to walk you through creating an incredible smoked meat grilled cheese sandwich using some top-notch ingredients from Lester’s Deli. Trust me, this isn’t your ordinary grilled cheese sandwich!

Why Smoked Meat Grilled Cheese?

Growing up, grilled cheese was a go-to comfort food for me, but it wasn’t until I added Lester’s smoked meat that I truly understood the power of this humble sandwich. The smoky depth of the brisket paired with melty cheese and crispy bread? It’s a game-changer!

Ingredients

• Smoked Meat: Opt for Lester’s Deli Smoked Meat Classic or their Roast Beef Brisket for that authentic, juicy flavor.
• Bread: A sturdy Lester’s Deli Rye Bread Loaf holds up beautifully when grilled.
• Cheese: Choose a good melting cheese like cheddar or provolone. I love the way Swiss cheese complements the smokiness of the meat!
• Optional Toppings: Caramelized onions, a spread of Dijon mustard, or even a few slices of pickles can add an extra zing.

Recipe Steps

Preparing the Meat

First things first, let’s get your smoked meat ready. If you’re using Lester’s brisket, you’ll want to gently reheat it to retain all that moisture. Slow and low is the key here – you want it warm but not dried out.

Assembling the Sandwich

1. Layering the Ingredients: Start with two slices of rye bread. Spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of each slice (this is my grandma’s secret for golden, crispy bread!). On the inside, lay down a slice of cheese on each slice of bread.
2. Adding the Meat: Pile a generous amount of smoked meat on one slice of bread. If you’re a flavor adventurer like me, this is where you add those caramelized onions or a drizzle of mustard.
3. Closing It Up: Place the other slice of bread, cheese side down, on top of the meat. Press down gently to make everything stick together.

Spicy Southern Chicken

Grilling the Sandwich

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place your sandwich in the pan. Here’s a tip: cover the pan with a lid for a minute or two — this traps the heat and helps melt the cheese without burning the bread. Grill each side until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Serving Suggestions

Cut your grilled cheese in half (there’s something so satisfying about seeing that cheese pull apart). I love serving this with a light arugula salad or some homemade tomato soup. It’s the perfect balance to the hearty sandwich.

Why You’ll Love This

• It’s Comforting: There’s nothing more satisfying than biting into a crispy, gooey grilled cheese.
• It’s Gourmet: With high-quality smoked meat, this sandwich feels upscale but is incredibly easy to make.
• It’s Versatile: Play around with different cheeses and toppings to find your perfect match.

Spicy Southern Chicken

Closing Thoughts

Making this smoked meat grilled cheese is like bringing a little piece of Montreal’s culinary genius into your own kitchen. It’s a fantastic way to spice up lunch or dinner, and it’s guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Ready to get grilling? Head over to Lester’s Deli to grab all the ingredients you need. Share your creations and experiences in the comments below or on your favorite social media platform. Happy cooking!

Don’t forget to check out Lester’s Deli for the highest quality meats and breads perfect for this recipe. Their traditional flavors and expert cuts will make your grilled cheese the talk of the town! Here are the links to get you started:

• Smoked Meat Classic
• Roast Beef Brisket
• Rye Bread Loaf