If you’re craving a savory, cheesy, and satisfying sandwich, Savory Swiss Mushroom Melts are the perfect choice. These melts combine the earthy richness of sautéed mushrooms, the creamy, nutty flavor of Swiss cheese, and the crispiness of toasted bread for a warm, comforting meal. Whether you’re serving it as a quick lunch or an indulgent dinner, this dish will become a favorite.
These Savory Swiss Mushroom Melts are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients. The mushrooms bring depth and flavor, while the Swiss cheese melts into a gooey, creamy filling that’s perfect for topping off a crispy, toasted sandwich. You can customize the recipe to your liking, adding herbs or other vegetables to elevate the taste.
Print
Savory Swiss Mushroom Melts: A Flavorful, Gooey Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously savory Swiss cheese melts with sautéed mushrooms, perfectly balanced with a rich, creamy sauce, and served on crispy bread for a delightful bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices crusty bread (like sourdough or French bread)
- Olive oil for brushing
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil on both sides. Toast the bread in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- While the bread is toasting, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes until they are browned and tender.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream, vegetable broth, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
- Place one slice of Swiss cheese on top of each slice of toasted bread. Spoon the mushroom mixture evenly over each slice, making sure the mushrooms and sauce are spread out evenly.
- Return the bread with mushrooms to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider topping the melts with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
- These melts can also be made with other types of mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom sauce for some heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, Vegetarian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Mushrooms
The main ingredient of these melts is mushrooms, which give a deep, earthy flavor. You can use cremini, button, or portobello mushrooms, or a mix of them for more complexity.
Swiss cheese
Swiss cheese is the star of this recipe. Its mild, nutty flavor and excellent melting properties make it the perfect cheese for these melts. Gruyère is a great alternative if you want a stronger flavor.
Bread
For the bread, you want something sturdy like sourdough, ciabatta, or French bread. A thick, hearty slice will hold up well to the fillings and get crispy when toasted.
Butter
To achieve a golden, crispy exterior, use butter to toast the bread. It adds richness and flavor to the sandwich.
Garlic powder
Garlic powder enhances the savory depth of the mushrooms and complements the Swiss cheese.
Fresh thyme
Fresh thyme is a great herb to complement the mushrooms, adding a fragrant, earthy aroma. You can also use dried thyme if you don’t have fresh.
Salt and pepper
Seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavors. Use salt and pepper to taste.
Directions
- Sauté the mushrooms:
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and browned. Add garlic powder and fresh thyme, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Set aside. - Prepare the bread:
Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will help achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust once the bread is toasted. - Assemble the melts:
On the unbuttered side of each bread slice, layer a generous amount of sautéed mushrooms and top with slices of Swiss cheese. Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up. - Toast the melts:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down slightly with a spatula to ensure an even toast. Cook until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and gooey. - Serve:
Once the sandwiches are toasted to perfection, remove them from the skillet and let them cool for a minute before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the savory goodness!
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 2 large sandwiches, perfect for 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time is around 10-12 minutes. The total time is approximately 20 minutes.
Equipment Needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Variations and Customizations
These Savory Swiss Mushroom Melts are highly customizable, so feel free to experiment with your ingredients.
Add Meat
For a more substantial meal, consider adding sliced turkey, roast beef, or chicken breast along with the mushrooms and cheese. These additions will make the melt more filling while complementing the mushroom and cheese combination.
Use Different Cheeses
While Swiss cheese is perfect for these melts, you can try other cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or Cheddar. A blend of cheeses can also create a more complex, gooey filling.
Add Veggies
For extra nutrition and flavor, you can add spinach, arugula, caramelized onions, or bell peppers to the filling. These veggies bring additional texture and freshness to the melts.
Make it Spicy
If you like a bit of heat, add some jalapeño slices, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mushroom mixture. The spiciness will balance beautifully with the creamy cheese.
Gluten-Free Version
To make this sandwich gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread and ensure your cheese and butter are also gluten-free. There are plenty of great gluten-free bread options available these days.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 sandwich) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use Fresh Mushrooms
For the best texture and flavor, always use fresh mushrooms. Pre-sliced mushrooms can lose moisture quickly and may not brown as nicely when sautéed.
Experiment with Bread Types
While sourdough and ciabatta are great choices, you can use any hearty bread that will hold up to the filling. A crusty baguette or whole grain bread would work beautifully, too.
Keep the Heat Low for Even Toasting
Make sure to toast the sandwiches over medium heat to avoid burning the bread. The key is to cook the sandwiches slowly so the cheese melts fully without the bread becoming too dark.
Make Ahead
You can prepare the sautéed mushrooms and cheese mixture in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, and then assemble and toast the sandwiches when you’re ready to eat.
FAQs
Can I make this sandwich without mushrooms?
Yes, you can replace the mushrooms with other vegetables like grilled zucchini, eggplant, or spinach for a different flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the Swiss cheese and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives, and use vegan butter for a completely dairy-free option.
Can I freeze these sandwiches?
It’s best to freeze the filling (mushrooms and cheese) separately, as the bread may not freeze well. You can freeze the filling for up to a month, and then assemble and toast when ready to serve.
What’s a good side to serve with these melts?
These sandwiches pair well with a side of crispy fries, green salad, or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the skillet over low heat to maintain the crispy texture.
Can I use a panini press?
Yes! If you have a panini press, it’s an excellent way to toast the sandwiches evenly and create that perfect golden crust.
Conclusion
These Savory Swiss Mushroom Melts are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines earthy mushrooms, creamy Swiss cheese, and perfectly toasted bread. Whether you’re making them for lunch, dinner, or a comforting snack, this sandwich will always hit the spot. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy a melty, cheesy treat that’s sure to please!
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!