Bacon Guacamole Grilled Cheese

Name: Bacon Guacamole Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature; 2 slices sourdough bread; ½ cup Colby jack cheese, shredded; 2 tablespoons guacamole, room temperature; 4 slices bacon, cooked; 3-4 tortilla chips, optional

Recipe by Jordan Avery · Updated July 2025

Grilling & Griddle Pork

There's something deeply satisfying about a grilled cheese sandwich that's been upgraded with smoky bacon and creamy guacamole. Home cooks adore this dish for its perfect balance of crunch, meltiness, and bold flavors, making it an instant crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or weekend hangouts. The combination of buttery sourdough, crispy bacon, and tangy guacamole elevates a classic comfort food into something irresistibly indulgent. It's the kind of recipe that feels like a little celebration on a plate.

What Makes This Recipe Special

The guacamole isn't just a topping-it's layered inside the sandwich to infuse every bite with its creamy, zesty goodness.
Crispy bacon is added both inside and outside the sandwich (yes, on top!) for an extra layer of smoky crunch.
Using Colby jack cheese ensures a smooth melt with just the right tang, complementing the richness of the bacon.
Tortilla chips pressed into the sandwich add an unexpected texture contrast, making each bite even more exciting.

⏱ 13 mins

American

Servings 1

Ingredients

2 tablespoonssalted butter, room temperature

2 slicessourdough bread

½ cupColby jack cheese, shredded

2 tablespoonsguacamole, room temperature

4 slicesbacon, cooked

3-4 tortilla chips, optional

Nutrition

650 caloriesCalories

Per serving · Values are estimates

Instructions

Preheat a skillet over medium heat.

Butter one side of each slice of bread while the skillet heats.

Place one slice of bread butter-side down on a non-stick surface or directly in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese onto the unbuttered side of the bread, followed by the guacamole, bacon, tortilla chips (if using), and the remaining cheese. Place the remaining slice of bread on top, buttered side up.

Transfer the sandwich to the skillet and grill until golden brown on the bottom side, approximately 2-4 minutes.

Flip the sandwich using a spatula and cook until golden brown on the opposite side and the cheese is fully melted. Serve immediately.

Essential Tips

Butter like you mean it

Don't skimp on the butter-it's the key to achieving a deep golden crust. Spread it generously on the outside of the bread, almost like you're frosting a cake. This ensures maximum crunch and flavor.

Let cheese come to room temp

Cold cheese can make your sandwich greasy as it melts. Take it out 10-15 minutes before cooking so it melts evenly and creates a cohesive, gooey layer between the bread.

Cook low and slow

Medium heat is crucial here. Too high, and the bread burns before the cheese melts. Too low, and you'll end up with a soggy sandwich. Aim for a steady, gentle cook for even browning.

Press it with a spatula

As the sandwich cooks, use a spatula to gently press down on the top slice. This helps the cheese adhere to the bread and ensures a tight, compact sandwich that holds together when sliced.

Add bacon last

If using bacon as a top layer, add it in the last 30 seconds of cooking. This prevents it from getting too crispy and allows the cheese underneath to fully melt without sogginess.

Smart Swaps & Variations

Spicy Kick Mix ½ teaspoon of chipotle powder or cayenne pepper into the guacamole for a smoky, spicy twist that pairs perfectly with the bacon.

Veggie Boost Add a layer of thinly sliced jalapeños or pickled red onions for a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon.

BBQ Bacon Swap the guacamole for 2 tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce and add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the cheese for a tangy, smoky flavor profile.

Turkey Twist Replace half of the Colby jack cheese with sharp cheddar and add 2 slices of roasted turkey for a lighter, yet still indulgent, version.

What to Serve With This

A simple green salad tossed with a lime vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sandwich.
Pickled jalapeños and sliced radishes on the side for a quick, crunchy contrast.
A cold glass of Mexican Coke (with lime) to complement the smoky and creamy flavors.
Tomato soup for dipping, especially if you're craving a nostalgic, cozy meal.

Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, wrap in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes per side until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the bread soggy.

Expert Chef Tips

Use rendered bacon fat to grease your skillet instead of butter for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
Toast the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich for an even crispier exterior.
For a restaurant-style finish, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on the sandwich right after cooking to elevate the flavors.

Equipment You’ll Need

10-inch non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
Spatula (preferably metal for even pressing)
Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
Tongs (for flipping bacon and sandwiches)

Nutritional Benefits

High in protein (25g) from bacon and cheese, making it a satisfying meal.
Good source of healthy fats (22g) from avocado and bacon, which support heart health.
Contains fiber (4g) from sourdough and optional tortilla chips, aiding digestion.
Rich in calcium (30% DV) from the cheese, important for bone health.

Reviews

No written reviews yet — be the first to cook this and share how it turned out!

Leave a Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-made guacamole or do I need to make it fresh?

Pre-made guacamole works fine, but for the best texture and flavor, make it fresh. If using store-bought, drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy sandwich. Fresh guacamole has a brighter taste and creamier texture that really shines in this recipe.

What's the best way to cook the bacon so it's crispy but not burnt?

Cook bacon on a rack in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes for even cooking without the mess. Alternatively, cook in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Avoid high heat, which can burn the bacon before it's fully cooked.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

Assemble the sandwich up to an hour ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Cook it just before serving to ensure the bread stays crispy and the cheese melts perfectly. Reheating pre-assembled sandwiches often leads to soggy results.

What's the best cheese to use if I can't find Colby jack?

Substitute with Monterey Jack for a mild, melty option, or mix sharp cheddar with a little mozzarella for stretchiness. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.

How do I prevent the sandwich from falling apart when slicing?

Press the sandwich gently with a spatula during cooking to compact the layers. Let it rest for 1 minute after cooking before slicing to allow the cheese to set. Cutting with a sharp, serrated knife also helps maintain the structure.

Can I make this sandwich in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 375°F, assemble the sandwich on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden. Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.

Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?

Absolutely! Swap the bacon for crispy roasted chickpeas or tempeh bacon, and use vegan cheese or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a melty, plant-based version. Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.

What's the best way to store leftover bacon for the sandwich?

Cook a batch of bacon ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a skillet over medium heat until crispy again before assembling the sandwich.