1-First Step: Mix the cream cheese spread Start by placing the 1/2 cup cream cheese, 1/2 cup shredded Double Gloucester or sharp cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, and 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt into a small bowl. Stir until the mixture looks smooth and spreadable. If the cream cheese is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing.

2-Second Step: Stir together the garlic spread In a second bowl, combine 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt. Mix until the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the mayo. Taste it if you want, but keep in mind that the sandwich will already have plenty of flavor from the cheeses.

3-Third Step: Build the sandwiches Lay out the 8 slices artisan bread on a clean counter or cutting board. Spread the garlic mayo mixture on one side of each slice. On the opposite side, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across four of the slices, since those will be the bottoms of the sandwiches. Add 2 medium cheddar cheese slices and 2 provolone slices to each of the four bottom slices. Then close each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, making sure the garlic side faces outward on both sides. Gently press each sandwich together so it stays neat while cooking.

4-Fourth Step: Heat the pan Set a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Let it warm up for 2 to 3 minutes before adding the sandwiches. Medium-low heat matters here because it gives the cheese time to melt before the bread burns. If the heat is too high, the outside may turn dark before the inside gets gooey.

5-Fifth Step: Cook until golden and melty Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on the first side. Press lightly with a spatula if needed. Flip carefully and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on the second side. The bread should turn deep golden brown and crisp, while the cheeses inside become soft and stretchy.

6-Sixth Step: Check for the perfect melt After flipping, you can cover the skillet for 1 to 2 minutes if the cheese still needs help melting. Watch closely and lift the lid once or twice to check the bread color. The sandwich is ready when the bread feels crisp and the cheese oozes slightly at the edges.

7-Final Step: Slice and serve Remove the sandwiches from the pan and let them rest for 1 minute before cutting. This short pause helps the cheese settle a bit so the filling does not spill out right away. Slice each sandwich in half and serve while warm.