Pro Chef Test.. Adam Ragusea Smashed Grilled Cheese on Brioche
Pro Chef Test.. Adam Ragusea Smashed Grilled Cheese on Brioche is a easy American recipe that serves 1. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Chef James Makinson on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 6 min | Total: 16 min
Cost: $7.08 total, $7.08 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 piece Brio's Hamburger Bun (pre‑cut, use both halves as sandwich)
- 1 slice White Cheddar Cheese (sharp white cheddar, sliced)
- 1 slice Havarti Cheese (mild, buttery, sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (softened for spreading)
Instructions
Gather and Prepare Ingredients
Lay out the pre‑cut Brio's bun halves, white cheddar slice, Havarti slice, and softened butter on a clean cutting board.
Time: PT2M
Butter the Bun
Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the outer side of each bun half.
Time: PT1M
Preheat Skillet
Place the skillet over medium heat and let it warm for about 2 minutes.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: 350°F
Smashed Bun
Lay the buttered sides down in the hot skillet. Using the spatula, gently press each half to flatten slightly, creating a "smashed" texture.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: 350°F
Add Cheese
Place the white cheddar slice on one bun half, then the Havarti slice on top of it.
Time: PT30S
Cover and Melt
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the bun underside is golden brown.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: 350°F
Flip and Finish
Carefully flip the sandwich with the spatula and cook the other side for 1–2 minutes, until crisp.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: 350°F
Rest and Serve
Remove the sandwich, let it rest on a plate for 30 seconds, then slice in half if desired and serve immediately.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 15 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 20 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Brio's Hamburger Bun: store‑bought hamburger bun, brioche bun, soft dinner roll
- Instead of White Cheddar Cheese: regular cheddar, colby jack
- Instead of Havarti Cheese: Swiss cheese, provolone
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: margarine, olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Butter Knife (optional)
- Plate (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Butter the outer sides of the bun evenly.
- Press the bun gently to achieve a "smashed" thin layer.
- Cover the skillet to melt the cheese fully without over‑browning the bun.
- Flip carefully to crisp the second side without breaking the sandwich.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a mix of sharp cheddar and mild Havarti for a balanced flavor and melt.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle a pinch of grated Parmesan on the buttered side before cooking.
- If you can’t find Havarti, substitute with Swiss or provolone.
Troubleshooting
Bun stays soggy and doesn’t crisp.
Increase skillet heat slightly and press the bun a bit more firmly. Make sure the butter layer is thin.
Cheese doesn’t melt before the bun burns.
Cover the skillet with a lid to trap steam, or lower the heat to medium‑low and allow a longer melt time.
Sandwich falls apart when flipping.
Use a wide, sturdy spatula and flip gently. Keep the bun slightly compressed after the first side cooks.
Storage
Refrigerator: Wrap tightly in foil or airtight container; best eaten within 24 hours. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture of the bun degrades when frozen.
Room temperature: Can sit out for up to 2 hours; after that, refrigerate.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Pre‑butter the bun halves and store them in a zip‑top bag in the fridge; bring to room temperature before cooking.
- Slice the cheeses ahead of time and keep them covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of grilled cheese sandwiches in American cuisine?
Grilled cheese has been a staple comfort food in the United States since the early 20th century, originally popularized during the Great Depression as an inexpensive, satisfying meal. Over time it evolved into a nostalgic snack found in school cafeterias, diners, and home kitchens.
How did Adam’s famous Brios bun smashed grilled cheese become popular within the American snack scene?
Adam’s version gained fame on social media for its unique use of a pre‑sliced Brio’s hamburger bun, which creates a buttery, pastry‑like crust. The combination of a smashed bun and premium cheeses turned a simple grilled cheese into a viral, Instagram‑ready snack.
What are traditional regional variations of grilled cheese in the United States?
In the Midwest, grilled cheese often includes cheddar and is served with tomato soup. The West Coast favors artisanal breads and cheeses like gouda or brie. Southern versions may add bacon or jalapeños, while New England sometimes incorporates apple slices for a sweet‑savory twist.
What occasions or celebrations is a grilled cheese sandwich like this typically associated with in American culture?
Grilled cheese is commonly enjoyed as a quick lunch, a comforting late‑night snack, or a nostalgic treat at backyard barbecues and college dorm gatherings. It’s also a popular menu item at food festivals celebrating comfort foods.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional American grilled cheese, and how does this recipe’s use of Brio’s bun and Havarti differ?
Traditional grilled cheese uses plain white bread, butter, and cheddar. This recipe upgrades the bread to a buttery Brio’s hamburger bun and adds Havarti for a creamier melt, giving it a richer, pastry‑like texture while still honoring the classic cheese‑and‑butter foundation.
What other American side dishes pair well with a Brios bun smashed grilled cheese?
Serve it with a simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette, a bowl of creamy tomato soup, or crispy sweet potato fries for a balanced snack or light meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Brios bun smashed grilled cheese?
Common errors include using too much butter (which makes the bun greasy), not pressing the bun enough (resulting in a thick, soggy interior), and cooking over too high heat (causing the bun to burn before the cheese melts).
Why does this recipe use butter on the bun instead of oil for cooking?
Butter provides a richer flavor and helps the bun develop a golden, slightly caramelized crust that oil alone cannot achieve. The milk solids in butter also contribute to a pleasant nutty aroma.
Can I make the Brios bun smashed grilled cheese ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can assemble the sandwich, wrap it tightly in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness; avoid microwaving as it makes the bun soggy.
What does the YouTube channel Chef James Makinson specialize in?
The YouTube channel Chef James Makinson focuses on approachable, comfort‑food recipes, quick kitchen hacks, and step‑by‑step tutorials that help home cooks create restaurant‑style dishes with minimal equipment.
How does the YouTube channel Chef James Makinson’s approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Chef James Makinson emphasizes using readily available supermarket ingredients while adding a twist—like the Brio’s bun—to elevate classic dishes. His videos often include detailed timing, temperature cues, and practical tips that cater to busy home cooks.
Last updated: August 24, 2026
