Triple Cheese Bacon Melt (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Melt Ingredients

01 - 8 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough, brioche, or rustic white)
02 - 8 strips thick-cut bacon
03 - 30 ml unsalted butter, softened
04 - 30 ml mayonnaise
05 - 240 g sharp cheddar cheese, shredded or sliced
06 - 240 g mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
07 - 120 g provolone cheese, shredded or sliced
08 - 2.5 ml garlic powder (optional)
09 - 2.5 ml smoked paprika (optional)
10 - 15 ml fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon strips until they are perfectly crispy, turning occasionally. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
02 - Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice. On the opposite side of each slice, apply a thin layer of mayonnaise. If using, sprinkle garlic powder or smoked paprika onto the buttered side before assembling.
03 - Lay four slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface. Generously layer shredded or sliced sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses onto these slices. Top with two strips of crispy bacon per sandwich, followed by a small additional sprinkle of mixed cheese. Cap each with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered side faces outwards.
04 - Preheat a skillet, griddle, or panini press over medium-low heat. Place the assembled melts onto the cooking surface and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, applying gentle pressure. Continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheeses are thoroughly melted and gooey. Should the bread brown too quickly, reduce the heat and cover the pan for 1-2 minutes to ensure internal melting.
05 - Remove the cooked melts from the pan and allow them to rest for 1 minute. Slice each sandwich diagonally in half. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

# Notes:

01 - For the finest melt and texture, utilize freshly shredded cheese.
02 - Sourdough bread provides a delightful tangy contrast, whereas brioche imparts a richer flavor profile.
03 - Maintain a medium-low heat during cooking to prevent burning and guarantee complete cheese melt.
04 - Elevate the flavor by adding a spread of Dijon mustard, pesto, or aioli.
05 - Explore different bacon varieties such as maple-smoked or peppered for unique tastes.
06 - For an extra gooey consistency, incorporate a tablespoon of cream cheese or a slice of American cheese.
07 - Introduce a spicy kick with sliced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
08 - Transform it into a breakfast melt by adding a fried egg.
09 - Create a vegetarian alternative by substituting bacon with grilled mushrooms or roasted bell peppers.
10 - Experiment with a BBQ twist by adding caramelized onions and barbecue sauce.
11 - For an Italian style, use ciabatta bread with mozzarella, provolone, and pancetta.