Save to Pinterest Thai Peanut Grilled Cheese Sticks take classic comfort food to an entirely new place by merging gooey melted cheese with creamy tangy Thai-style peanut sauce sandwiched in crispy golden bread This snack is pure fun and flavor perfect for sharing dipping and watching friends' faces light up at first bite
I whipped these up when I had leftover peanut sauce in the fridge and wanted something cozy but exciting the combination instantly became a go-to for movie nights at our house
Ingredients
- Creamy peanut butter: makes the sauce silky and rich Look for a natural style with just peanuts and salt for best flavor
- Soy sauce: brings in savory depth Aim for low-sodium if you want more control over salt
- Fresh lime juice: adds brightness and cuts the richness Pick a juicy lime and roll it first to get every drop
- Honey: rounds out the flavors with gentle sweetness Try local or wildflower honey for more complexity
- Sriracha: brings optional heat Add a little for warmth or keep it mild for kids
- Fresh garlic: gives the sauce punch Always use a plump fresh clove for boldest taste
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts perfectly and brings that classic cheese stretch Buy blocks to shred yourself for softer melt
- Sharp cheddar cheese: wakes up the flavor and balances the sauce with a hint of tang Look for one labeled extra sharp for a bigger impact
- Sandwich bread: delivers crunch and structure Use sturdy slices that crisp and toast without falling apart
- Unsalted butter: coats the bread for golden frying Soften to room temperature for easy spreading
- Fresh cilantro: gives a fragrant herby finish Always pick bright green leaves and store in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel
Instructions
- Assemble and Whisk the Peanut Sauce:
- Combine peanut butter soy sauce lime juice honey sriracha and fresh garlic in a bowl Whisk thoroughly and slowly add the warm water until the sauce is smooth and creamy The water lets the peanut butter blend instead of seizing up Aim for a pourable but slightly thick sauce that clings to a spoon
- Sauce the Bread:
- Lay out all the slices of bread on your work surface Spread a thin generous layer of peanut sauce on half of the slices Tips Allow the sauce to reach almost to the crusts so each bite gets flavor
- Add the Cheese:
- Mix grated mozzarella and cheddar together in a separate bowl Mound the cheese mixture on the peanut sauce slices and make sure you distribute evenly to every edge
- Close and Butter:
- Place the remaining slices on top of the cheese to form closed sandwiches If the bread feels very soft lightly press down to flatten a bit Spread the softened butter over the outside faces of each sandwich for even browning
- Toast to Perfection:
- Set a skillet or griddle on medium heat Once hot but not smoking add the sandwiches Butter side down Grill for at least two to three minutes per side Watch closely You want each side to turn crisp and deep golden with cheese just starting to ooze out the edges
- Cool and Slice:
- Transfer grilled sandwiches onto a board Let rest for a minute or two so the cheese sets and you can slice neatly Cut each into stick shapes which are perfect for dipping
- Garnish Serve and Dip:
- Arrange sticks on a platter Sprinkle with cilantro if you like Serve alongside extra peanut sauce for lots of dipping
Save to Pinterest My favorite part is always that first bite with stretchy cheese and sweet-salty peanut sauce I remember introducing these to my niece during her first sleepover and now she always asks if we can make them together every time she visits
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat in a toaster oven or dry skillet to bring back the crispness Avoid microwaving as it can make bread soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of cheddar try pepper jack or even gouda For nut allergies sunflower seed butter and tamari work well as swaps Sourdough or whole grain bread both add great texture
Serving Suggestions
Pile these on a platter for parties with extra sauce and crunchy veggie sticks They are also a creative side for tomato soup or a Thai-inspired salad
Save to Pinterest This cheesy snack is the kind of crowd-pleaser you will want to make again and again Try with extra peanut sauce on the side for dipping and watch them disappear fast
Common Recipe Questions
- → What kind of cheese works best for this dish?
A blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar gives a gooey texture with bold flavor.
- → How is the peanut sauce made?
Whisk creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sriracha, garlic, and water until smooth.
- → Can whole-wheat bread be used?
Yes, whole-wheat or sourdough bread adds extra flavor and texture to the grilled cheese sticks.
- → Is the snack suitable for vegetarians?
It uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients and can be made vegan with simple substitutions.
- → What’s the best way to cook the bread sticks?
Cook in a hot skillet with butter for 2-3 minutes each side until golden brown and the cheese melts.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge. Gently reheat to preserve crispiness and melted cheese.