Cheese Bacon Ranch Melt (Print Version)

Buttery brioche packed with melted cheeses, crisp bacon, and zesty ranch, grilled to golden perfection.

# Ingredients:

→ Bread and Cheese

01 - 8 slices thick-cut brioche bread or Texas toast
02 - 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
03 - 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, sliced
04 - 4 ounces Provolone cheese or processed cheese, sliced

→ Proteins and Condiments

05 - 8 strips bacon
06 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
07 - 1/4 cup ranch dressing

→ Optional Add-Ons

08 - Sliced jalapeños, to taste
09 - Caramelized onions, optional

# Steps:

01 - Allow sliced cheddar, Monterey Jack, and provolone cheeses to reach room temperature for 15 minutes before assembling.
02 - Arrange bacon strips on a lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes until crisp. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
03 - Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
04 - Spread softened butter evenly over one side of each bread slice.
05 - Place 4 bread slices, buttered side down, onto the skillet. Layer each with one-fourth of the sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and provolone cheeses. Add 2 bacon strips atop each portion of cheese. Spoon a small amount of ranch dressing over the bacon and cheese. Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
06 - Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the base is golden brown. Carefully flip each sandwich and continue cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese has melted fully.
07 - Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board. Allow to rest for 1 minute before cutting diagonally. Serve immediately while cheese is warm and melted.

# Notes:

01 - Resting the sandwich briefly after cooking helps the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice cleanly.