Looking for a way to make the most of your leftover carnitas? This Leftover Carnitas Grilled Cheese Melt is the perfect solution! With its gooey melted cheese, buttery toasted bread, and the savory goodness of carnitas, it’s a sandwich you’ll want to make over and over again. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that turns leftovers into a culinary masterpiece.
Table of Contents
The Best Leftover Carnitas Grilled Cheese Melt Recipe
Notes on Ingredients
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- Leftover Carnitas: The star of the show! Reheat these tender pork pieces before layering them onto the sandwich.
- Mexican Cheese: Opt for cheeses like pepper jack, Monterey jack, or Manchego for a perfect melt. Feel free to mix them up for extra flavor.
- Avocado: Adds a creamy texture that complements the melted cheese.
- Bread and Butter: Your choice of bread, dipped in melted butter for that golden crust.
How to Make Leftover Carnitas Grilled Cheese Melt
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Dip one side of each bread slice in melted butter.
- Lay two slices, butter-side down, in the skillet.
- Start layering with a slice of cheese, then add your reheated leftover carnitas, avocado slices, and another slice of cheese.
- Top with the remaining bread slice, butter-side up.
- Grill until golden brown on both sides, flipping as necessary.
How to Serve Leftover Carnitas Grilled Cheese Melt
For the ultimate experience, serve this sandwich hot off the skillet. Pair it with a light salad, salsa, or a side of fries. A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cilantro can add extra zing if desired.
How to Store Leftover Carnitas Grilled Cheese Melt
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), wrap the sandwich tightly in foil and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for a crispier texture—microwaving may make the bread soggy.
FAQs About Leftover Carnitas Grilled Cheese Melt
Can I use any type of cheese for this sandwich?
Absolutely! While Mexican cheeses work best for flavor and meltability, feel free to use any cheese you have on hand.
What can I substitute for avocado?
You can use other creamy additions like guacamole, sour cream, or even a fried egg for added richness.
Can I make this sandwich with fresh carnitas?
Yes! If you don’t have leftovers, freshly made carnitas will work just as well.
The Best Leftover Carnitas Grilled Cheese Melt Recipe
Ingredients
- leftover Crockpot Carnitas
- 4 slices of bread
- 3-4 tablespoons butter melted
- sliced Mexican cheese pepper jack, monterey jack, Manchego, whatever you’d like!
- 1 avocado sliced
Instructions
- Dip one side of each slice of bread in melted butter.
- To make two sandwiches at once, place 2 slices, butter-side down in a preheated large skillet.
- Top with cheese slice(s), carnitas, avocado slices, cheese slice(s), then a slice of bread with butter side up.
- Flip both to brown on other side.