Mayme'S Cheese Dreams
Mayme's Cheese Dreams are a delightful open-faced sandwich featuring toasted bread layered with cheese, fresh tomatoes, and optional onions, then topped with crispy bacon. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, this dish offers a satisfying combination of creamy, savory, and smoky flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toast lightly the 8 slices of bread.
- Pre-cook bacon lightly.
- Place cheese, sliced tomatoes, and chopped onion (if using) on the toasted bread slices.
- Broil the assembled slices for approximately 2 minutes until cheese starts to melt.
- Place cooked bacon on top of each slice and broil until cheese is fully melted.
- Serve with your favorite salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using whole grain or sourdough bread instead of white for added flavor and texture. If you're out of American cheese, cheddar or Monterey Jack can work well too. To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or Italian herbs to the tomatoes. This dish also pairs nicely with a refreshing Cauliflower Lettuce Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Cheese Dreams warm, topped with a side of your favorite salad for a balanced meal. They also make a delightful appetizer at gatherings. Pair them with a light soup, such as Garbanzo Bean Soup, for a comforting lunch or dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cheese Dreams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mayme'S Cheese Dreams contains roughly 358 calories, with 12g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 811mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Cheese Dreams ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sandwiches and refrigerate them before broiling. When ready to serve, simply broil them as instructed. This makes them a great option for meal prepping or entertaining guests.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
You can use turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile without the meat.
How do I make these Cheese Dreams spicier?
To add some heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top of the tomatoes before broiling. You could also use pepper jack cheese instead of American for a spicy kick that complements the flavors wonderfully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).