Pin It The idea came to me during a rainy Sunday when I had leftover smoked salmon from a brunch party and no desire to cook anything elaborate. I stood in front of the open fridge staring at the salmon next to a half-empty block of cream cheese when it hit me that these two belonged between buttered bread. The first sandwich I made that afternoon disappeared so fast I had to make another immediately.
My friend Sarah walked into the kitchen right as I was flipping the first sandwich and literally stopped mid sentence to ask what smelled so incredible. We ate them standing at the counter with steaming mugs of tomato soup and she demanded the recipe before even finishing her last bite. Now every time she visits she asks if were having the salmon grilled cheeses.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes so it spreads smoothly without tearing the bread
- Shredded mozzarella or Swiss: Mozzarella gives you those gorgeous cheese pulls while Swiss adds a nutty sharpness that cuts through the richness
- Smoked salmon: Thin slices melt better and distribute the smoky flavor more evenly than thick chunks
- Hearty sandwich bread: Sourdough holds up to the fillings without getting soggy and develops the most beautiful golden crust
- Fresh dill: The bright grassy flavor cuts through the creaminess and makes everything taste lighter
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter coats every inch of the bread for even browning and maximum crispness
Instructions
- Make the flavored cream cheese:
- Mash the softened cream cheese with chopped dill until completely combined then stir in any capers or red onion you are using
- Prep the bread:
- Butter one side of each bread slice generously making sure to cover all the way to the edges
- Build the sandwiches:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture on the unbuttered side of two slices layer salmon on top and sprinkle with shredded cheese and pepper
- Close them up:
- Place the remaining bread slices on top with the buttered side facing out and press down gently
- Get them golden:
- Cook in a hot skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes per side until the bread is deeply golden and the cheese is bubbling
- Let them rest:
- Give the sandwiches a full minute on a cutting board so the cheese sets slightly before slicing
Pin It This sandwich has become my go to when I want something that feels special but requires almost zero effort. Last week I made them for dinner when my brother came over unexpectedly and he actually asked if I could make them again the next night.
Choosing the Right Bread
After testing this with every bread in my kitchen I learned that sturdy dense breads work best because they do not get soggy from the cream cheese. Sourdough is my top pick but rye adds a wonderful earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with smoked salmon.
Balancing the Flavors
The combination of cool creamy cheese against warm crusty bread creates this incredible temperature contrast that makes each bite interesting. I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon to the cream cheese mixture which brightens everything and mimics the classic lox and bagel experience.
Make It Your Own
Start with the basic version then experiment based on what you love or have on hand.
- Swap fresh dill for chives tarragon or even basil if that is what you have in the fridge
- Try gruyère or fontina instead of mozzarella for a more grown up flavor profile
- Add a handful of arugula after grilling for a peppery fresh bite and extra color
Pin It Hope this sandwich becomes one of those recipes you turn to again and again.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best with smoked salmon?
Soft cheeses like cream cheese paired with shredded mozzarella or Swiss provide creamy texture and mild flavor that complement smoked salmon.
- → Can I substitute the bread used in this sandwich?
Hearty breads such as sourdough, rye, or whole grain enhance the texture and absorb the butter and fillings well.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the sandwich?
Adding fresh herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon in the cheese spread and optional red onion or capers boosts freshness and complexity.
- → What is the best way to grill this sandwich?
Use a nonstick skillet over medium heat, pressing gently and cooking 3–4 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese fully melted.
- → Can I prepare the filling in advance?
The cream cheese and herb mixture can be made ahead and stored refrigerated to save time before assembling and grilling.