How To Get An Instagram-Worthy Cheese Pull
Things are about to get really cheesy!
Photograph by Ralph Smith
There’s something magical about warm, gooey cheese being stretched to seemingly impossible lengths — which is why you’ll find more than 60,000 #cheesepull posts on Instagram. Food Network Magazine set out to learn just how to make — and share — the perfect grilled cheese sandwich. Here's how to get an outstanding shot.
Picture-Perfect Grilled Cheese Recipe: Heat 1 tablespoon salted butter in a cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Place 2 slices American cheese between 2 slices country white bread. Press the sandwich slightly, then add to the pan and cook until golden, 3 to 5 minutes per side, adding more butter when you flip, if needed.
Choose Your Cheese Wisely: American cheese is a great melter, which is why it makes the best grilled cheese, but for an extra-stretchy look, try mozzarella slices. Avoid cheeses that don’t melt, like feta, halloumi, Cotija and goat cheese.
Go Easy On Other Ingredients: If you want your shot to be all about the cheese pull, play it straight; sauce and other extras will stick to the cheese strands and steal the show.
Turn Down the Heat: Cheese melts best over low to medium heat. If the heat is too high, the fat can start separating out of the cheese, resulting in a greasy look.
Time Your Pull Just Right: Let your sandwich sit for a few seconds after cooking before you slice and pull — if the cheese is too hot, it will be hard to control. But don’t wait too long! Once the cheese cools, it can break.
Beware the Reheat: Unfortunately, cheese that sets will never look freshly melted again even if you reheat it. If you missed the shot, eat the sandwich and try again!
Photograph by Ralph Smith
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