Wisconsin Rye Grilled Cheese on the Arteflame

Introduction

This Wisconsin Rye Bread Grilled Cheese brings out the best in grilled flavors using the Arteflame grill. The crispy rye, ooey-gooey Wisconsin sharp cheddar, and perfect butter sear make it unforgettable. Using only the flat top griddle surrounding the center grill grate, we achieve gourmet flavors and textures without ever needing an oven or pan.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of rye bread (fresh, sturdy style preferred)
• 10 oz Wisconsin sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (plus more if needed)
• Optional: pinch of sea salt for added flavor

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour a little vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light the paper.
4. Let it build heat for 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly hot and the center grate reaches over 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare your grilled cheese setup

1. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread generously. This gives it a rich flavor and crispy golden finish on the griddle.
2. Layer Wisconsin sharp cheddar cheese between two slices of bread with buttered sides out.
3. Repeat until you have four sandwiches ready to grill.

Step 3: Grill the sandwiches

1. Place the sandwiches butter-side down on the hot Arteflame cooktop griddle, starting near the center to get that perfect crust.
2. Press each sandwich lightly for even contact with the cooktop.
3. Let the sandwich cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Flip and repeat on the other side.
4. Move sandwiches outwards if they cook too quickly – the outer flat top offers a cooler zone to prevent burning.

Step 4: Melt the cheese to perfection

1. Lower heat zones across the flat top help melt the cheese gradually without burning the bread.
2. Gently check the middle — the cheese should be melted and gooey.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Remove sandwiches and let them rest for 1-2 minutes.
2. Slice diagonally and plate immediately while hot and crispy!

Tips

• Always use room-temperature butter to spread evenly.
• Adjust sandwich placement on the cooktop for ideal golden sear – hotter near the center, cooler near the edge.
• Use thick-cut Wisconsin cheddar for best melt and flavor.
• Remove meat from the grill at 15°F below target temp (not needed in this recipe, but useful for meat pairings).
• Butter, not oil, ensures better flavor and color for grilled cheese.

Variations

1. Smoked Gouda Twist: Replace cheddar with smoked gouda and add caramelized onions – a rich, smoky version.
2. Pepper Jack Kick: Swap in Wisconsin pepper jack for a spicy twist, with sliced jalapeños.
3. Garlic Herb Butter Grilled Cheese: Mix minced garlic and fresh herbs into the butter for an aromatic sizzle.
4. Tomato Basil Melt: Add thin slices of tomato and fresh basil between the cheese slices.
5. Ham & Cheese Artisan Style: Add a layer of thinly sliced grilled ham, seared on the center grate before assembling.

Best pairings

• Classic pairing: Creamy tomato soup, also grilled on the Arteflame in a cast iron pot if needed.
• Drink: Cold Wisconsin craft beer (try an amber ale or IPA).
• Side: Grilled asparagus or roasted bell peppers cooked on the flat griddle.
• Dessert: Grilled peaches with honey and cinnamon for a sweet finish.

Conclusion

This Wisconsin rye grilled cheese is melted perfection with bold cheddar, buttery crisp rye, and Arteflame-perfect sear. Whether you use it as a hearty side or the star of the table, this grilled cheese delivers big flavor from simple ingredients – all thanks to the versatility of the Arteflame grill.