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Kare Pan (Japanese Curry Grilled Cheese) First Image

Japanese Curry Grilled Cheese Sandwich


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  • Author: Chef Yamamoto
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
  • Diet: Meat, Vegetarian

Description

A delicious twist on a classic grilled cheese using flavorful Japanese curry.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup Japanese curry (leftover or freshly made)
  • 4 slices bread (thick-cut sandwich bread preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
  • 1/2 cup cooked ground beef or beef sausage (optional for extra protein)
  • 1/4 cup chopped onions (optional)
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Curry Filling – If you have leftover Japanese curry from last night’s dinner—perfect! If not, make a small batch using onions, carrots, potatoes, curry roux, and your choice of protein. For this sandwich, I sometimes add cooked ground beef or beef sausage for extra richness. Simmer the curry until thickened—you want it spoonable, not runny.
  2. Butter the Bread – Butter one side of each bread slice. This will help achieve that classic grilled cheese crunch. Use a thick sandwich bread like shokupan, brioche, or sourdough for the best texture.
  3. Assemble the Sandwich – Lay one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet or on a cutting board. Add a layer of shredded cheese, then a generous scoop of curry (avoiding too much liquid), and another layer of cheese on top. Cap it with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
  4. Toast to Perfection – Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place your sandwich in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. The goal is golden-brown bread and melted cheese. Be patient—it’s worth it.
  5. Slice and Serve – Let it rest for a minute before slicing. This helps the cheese settle slightly. Then cut it in half and serve while hot, with extra curry on the side if you like.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding cooked vegetables like bell peppers or additional spices.
  • This sandwich pairs well with a side of pickles or a salad.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg