J. Kenji López-alt Inspired Ultimate Grilled Cheese

Melt 1/2 tablespoon of the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.

Place the 2 slices of bread in the skillet and cook until pale golden brown on the bottom, about 2 to 3 minutes. This will be the inside of your sandwich.

Remove the bread from the skillet. Place the 2 slices of American cheese and 1 oz freshly grated sharp cheddar on the toasted side of one slice of bread. Top with the second slice of bread, toasted-side facing inward.

Melt the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of butter in the skillet. Return the sandwich to the pan and cook over medium-low heat, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bottom is deep golden brown and crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Carefully flip the sandwich and continue to cook until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, about 3 to 4 more minutes. Serve immediately.