A rich and indulgent variation of the classic grilled cheese, this Pulled Beef Grilled Cheese Sandwich is loaded with tender, flavorful shredded beef and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella. The crispy, buttery bread encases a savory, melty interior that makes this sandwich a standout meal for lunch, dinner, or any comforting occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms an ordinary grilled cheese into a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you use leftover roast beef or slow-cooked pulled beef, the combination with gooey melted cheese creates an irresistible bite every time. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and can be made using pantry staples. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 slices of sourdough or thick sandwich bread
2 cups pulled beef (pre-cooked or leftover roast beef)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 tablespoons butter, softened
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, layer pulled beef, cheddar, and mozzarella. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side facing out.
5. Grill each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
6. Remove from heat and let the sandwiches rest for 1 minute before slicing and serving hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 sandwiches.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add caramelized onions: A layer of sweet, sautéed onions enhances the beef’s flavor.
• Spicy option: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Different cheeses: Try provolone, gouda, or Swiss for alternative flavor combinations.
• BBQ twist: Mix the pulled beef with barbecue sauce before assembling the sandwich.
• Garlic butter: Blend minced garlic into the butter for extra depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crisped again, about 3–5 minutes per side. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

What kind of beef works best for pulled beef sandwiches?

Slow-cooked chuck roast, brisket, or leftover pot roast are all great options for pulled beef.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and assemble the sandwiches, then refrigerate until ready to grill.

Is it possible to freeze these sandwiches?

Yes, wrap them tightly in foil and freeze. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.

What type of bread is best for this recipe?

Sourdough or any thick-cut, sturdy bread works best to hold the filling and crisp nicely.

How can I make this sandwich less greasy?

Use a nonstick skillet with minimal butter or grill with a sandwich press for even crisping without excess fat.

Can I use store-bought pulled beef?

Yes, store-bought or deli-style pulled beef can be used for convenience.

What are good sides to serve with this sandwich?

Pair with tomato soup, coleslaw, potato chips, or a crisp green salad.

Can I add vegetables to the sandwich?

Absolutely—grilled peppers, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms make great additions.

What cheese melts best for grilled cheese?

Mozzarella and cheddar are classic, but American, fontina, and gouda also melt beautifully.

How do I keep the bread from burning while the cheese melts?

Cook over medium-low heat to allow time for the cheese to melt while the bread crisps without burning.

Conclusion

The Pulled Beef Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a deliciously satisfying upgrade to a beloved classic. With its savory filling, melty cheese, and perfectly crisped bread, it delivers a comforting, gourmet experience in every bite. Whether you’re using leftovers or making it fresh, this sandwich is bound to become a favorite.

Pulled Beef Grilled Cheese Sandwich

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

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Description

A decadent grilled cheese sandwich loaded with tender pulled beef and a melty mix of cheddar and mozzarella, grilled to golden perfection on buttery sourdough bread.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 slices of sourdough or thick sandwich bread
• 2 cups pulled beef (pre-cooked or leftover roast beef)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, layer with pulled beef, cheddar, and mozzarella. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out.
5. Grill sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve hot.

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Notes

• Use leftover roast beef for an easy shortcut.
• Press sandwiches slightly with a spatula while grilling for better crust.
• Serve with pickles or a side salad for a complete meal.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 740mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg