Bagel Grilled Cheese Recipe For Baby and Toddler

Recipe suitable from six months old
 

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    Close up image of a bagel with oozing grilled cheese and served cut in half on a toddler plate
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    Grilled Cheese Bagel

    A bagel grilled cheese is an excellent recipe for baby-led weaning from 6 months old because it offers a firm yet manageable texture that encourages self-feeding and fine motor skills development.

    Delicious bagels provide a sturdy base that babies can easily hold with their small hands, while the melted cheese adds a nutritious, soft component that melts in the mouth, reducing choking hazards.

    This simple combination introduces babies to new flavours and textures, supporting sensory exploration and making mealtimes enjoyable without overwhelming their developing palates.

    Its balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fat also contributes to the energy and nutrients needed for healthy growth.

    The kind of bagel you use is up to you.

    Good Cheese For Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

    When preparing a grilled cheese sandwich for baby-led weaning, it’s important to choose cheeses that are mild, pasteurised, and easy to digest.

    Cheeses such as mild cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack are excellent options as they melt well and have a gentle flavour that is appealing to little ones.

    Cottage cheese and cream cheese can also be used as spreads inside the sandwich for added creaminess.

    Avoid cheeses with strong flavours or high salt content, and ensure the cheese is cut into manageable pieces to reduce choking hazards.

    Always use pasteurised cheese to keep your baby safe and support their transition to solid foods.

    Ingredient information

    Bagel - I have used a white bagel for this recipe, you could use a different type of bagel too such as a wholemeal bagel, either is a good choice. A great alternative to a slice of bread and the usual grilled cheese sandwich.

    Cheese - I have used a mature cheddar cheese with a creamy texture, but what would be great is if you mix both cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese if you like a cheesier grilled cheese recipe.

    Butter - I have used an unsalted butter to fry the grilled cheese in a frying pan, you could use olive oil or avocado oil instead.

    A whole cooked bagel with grilled cheese

    Serving suggestion

    The bagel sandwiches will be great served with cucumber batons and a tomato slice.

    The bagel could be served on its own as a complete meal too with tomato soup.

    Other recipes you may like: Regular grilled cheese sandwich, French toast or Toast toppings.

    Close up image of a bagel with oozing grilled cheese and served cut in half on a toddler plate

    Storage instructions

    The cheese sandwich recipe can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, if stored in an airtight container.

    If you wanted to freeze the the cheese melts, you will need to get yourself a freezer bag or an airtight container.

    Make sure that which ever you choose are labelled with the item and the date.

    I use masking tape to label the airtight container. The bagel will store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

    To defrost the bagel, leave in the fridge overnight to defrost and make sure it is fully defrosted, before serving.

    Once the bagel has been defrosted you will not be able to reheat.


    Equipment used to help with this recipe

    Frying pan - I love the non-stick surface of this particular frying pan and it’s suitable for all types of hob.

    Airtight container - I much prefer the click-shut lids on these containers compared to others. They are also dishwasher and freezer safe and BPA free, so very suitable for food use.

    Recipe | Bagel Grilled Cheese Recipe For Baby and Toddler

    A cooked bagel with grilled cheese cut in half to show the melted cheese oozing from the bagel

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    Bagel Grilled Cheese Recipe For Baby and Toddler

    Bagel Grilled Cheese Recipe For Baby and Toddler

    Yield: 2
    Author: Lindsay
    Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 8 MinTotal time: 18 Min

    This is such a simple recipe for baby and toddler for a quick and easy lunch idea! Only three ingredients needed!

    Ingredients

    Instructions

    1. Start by cutting your bagel in half.
    2. Place your slices of cheese on one side of half of the bagel making sure the whole slice is covered.
    3. Place the other sliced bagel half on top of the cheese.
    4. Spoon the butter into the frying pan and turn the heat onto a medium-high heat and melt the butter in the pan.
    5. Turn down the heat to a low heat and place the bagel into the pan with the melted butter. You can add a little extra butter outside of the bread too.
    6. Cook the bagel for 4 minutes each side until all of the cheese has melted and each side is golden brown.
    7. Leave to cool before serving to your baby.

    Notes

    If you wanted to make this recipe dairy free all you will need to do is use a dairy free or vegan cheddar cheese.

    You will also need to use a dairy free butter or you can use an oil such as olive oil or coconut oil.

    Hope you and your whole family enjoy!

    cheese bagel, grilled cheese sandwich, cheese recipe, BLW, baby-led weaning, baby led weaning, finger food
    Lunch
    British

    A close up image of a cooked bagel with grilled cheese served cut in half on a toddler plate

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    Lindsay

    This article was written by Lindsay, the creator and owner of The Petit Spoon, who is on a mission to provide quick and easy to follow, affordable baby-led weaning recipes. With a background in child nutrition and hospitality, Lindsay understands the importance of nourishing little ones with wholesome foods that support their growth and development.

    https://www.thepetitspoon.com/
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