For a twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, try cutting out the middle and crack an egg into it for a grilled cheese egg-in-a-nest. What makes this sandwich special is the spicy mayo spread on the bread, giving this grilled cheese a unique kick of heat. Serve with extra Sriracha on the side for the spice lovers in your life.
Grilled Cheese Egg-in-a-Nest
Yield: 1 Sandwich
1 tablespoon mayo
1/4 teaspoon Sriracha
2 slices potato bread
1 slice cheddar cheese
1 slice pepper jack cheese
1 large egg
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Kosher salt and black pepper
Directions:
1) Start by whisking the mayo and Sriracha together in a small bowl until smooth and combined. Spread the spicy mayo on one slice of the bread in an even layer. Top the spicy mayo with the cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese, then finish with the other slice of bread.
2) Next, cut the hole in the sandwich for the egg to rest. To do this, use a 2 inch ring mold or round glass and press into the center of the sandwich. Make sure to cut through the entire sandwich and remove the center. Set both pieces aside. Crack the egg into a small bowl, making sure not to break the yolk. Set aside.
3) Add the butter to a medium, nonstick saute pan over low heat. (It’s important to keep the heat low or the sandwich will burn before the egg cooks completely.) Add the sandwich and cutout to the skillet and toast until golden brown. Flip the sandwich and cutout over with a spatula and gently pour the egg into to the center of the sandwich, making sure not to break the yolk. Season the egg with a pinch of salt and fresh black pepper. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the egg white had set and the underside is toasted, about 5 minutes. The cutout will cook faster than the sandwich, so check the underside regularly. Once cooked, transfer the sandwich and cutout to a plate and serve immediately.
*Cook’s Note: Use your favorite cookie cutter to make fun designs in your sandwich! Use a heart shaped cookie cutter for a Valentine’s Day sandwich, or a pumpkin shaped cookie cutter for a festive Halloween sandwich. The possibilities are endless!