Patrick Oconnell
Grilled cheese on toast is a beloved snack in the UK, and there are many ways to make it. The traditional method involves toasting one side of the bread, flipping it over, adding cheese, and grilling it until it's melted. Some people prefer to toast both sides of the bread first, while others like to add toppings such as mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or sliced raw onion. Using grated cheese instead of sliced cheese is also an option, as it creates a lighter texture. Ultimately, the best method for making grilled cheese on toast comes down to personal preference and the desired level of convenience.
How to Grill Cheese on Toast
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bread | Sourdough, French, Homemade, Thickly Sliced, or any sliced bread |
| Butter | Salted, Unsalted with a sprinkle of salt |
| Cheese | Cheddar, Mozzarella, Gruyere, Parmesan, Creme Fraiche, Pre-sliced, Grated, Shredded |
| Other Ingredients | Worcestershire Sauce, Mustard, Malt Vinegar, Raw Onion, Mayonnaise, Black Pepper, Tomatoes, Chutney, Egg |
| Method | Grill, Toaster, Oven, Microwave, Pan, Skillet, Griddle, Stove, Sandwich Press, Toaster |
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What You'll Learn
Grated vs sliced cheese
When making grilled cheese on toast, you can use either grated or sliced cheese. However, there are some differences in the final product depending on which you choose. Some people prefer to use sliced cheese, while others insist on grating the cheese before adding it to their grilled cheese.
Using grated cheese creates layers and pockets of air, making the sandwich lighter and less stodgy. It also melts more easily and evenly, creating a gooey, oozy texture. However, pre-shredded cheese from stores is often coated with anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting properly. Therefore, it is recommended to grate your own cheese if you prefer grated cheese on your grilled sandwich.
On the other hand, sliced cheese has a more substantial feel and can provide a good cheese pull, especially when using mozzarella. It also has a milder flavour, which can be enhanced by adding a flavoured cheese, such as vintage cheddar or Gruyere, to your sandwich.
Ultimately, the choice between grated and sliced cheese depends on your personal preference and the specific characteristics you want your grilled cheese sandwich to have.
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To toast the bread first or not
There are differing opinions on whether to toast the bread first when making grilled cheese on toast. Some people prefer to toast the bread first on both sides, as this helps the toast stay crispy and prevents it from becoming soggy. This can be done in a toaster or under the grill. Toasting the bread first also helps to create a sturdier base for the melted cheese, giving the sandwich a firmer texture and bite.
Others prefer to place the cheese on untoasted bread and then grill it, as toasting the bread first can cause it to burn. This method allows the cheese to melt before the edges of the bread start to burn, resulting in a crispier sandwich. If using a toaster, it is recommended to toast the bread lightly on one side first, then flip it over, add the cheese, and grill until melted.
Some people also like to add butter, mayonnaise, or marmite to the bread before toasting, as this adds flavour and richness to the sandwich. Additionally, using grated cheese instead of sliced cheese can create layers and pockets of air, making the sandwich lighter and less stodgy.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to toast the bread first or not comes down to personal preference and the desired texture and flavour of the grilled cheese on toast.
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Using a toaster or grill
If you're using a toaster or grill, the first step is to toast your bread. You can toast the bread in a toaster and then transfer it to a grill, or toast it directly under the grill. Some people prefer to toast only one side of the bread first, then add the cheese to the untoasted side and grill it. This is to prevent the bread from burning while the cheese melts. Others prefer to toast both sides of the bread first, either in a toaster or under the grill, before adding the cheese and returning it to the grill. This creates a sturdier base for the cheese and gives the toast a firmer texture.
If you're using a toaster, some recommend using the bagel setting if your toaster has one, as it allows you to toast two slices of bread in one slot. This can be useful if you're making multiple grilled cheese toasts. When using a grill, it's important to preheat it to ensure even cooking.
Once your bread is toasted, it's time to add the cheese. You can use sliced or grated cheese, but grated cheese is generally preferred as it melts more easily and creates a lighter, less stodgy texture. If using sliced cheese, you may need to grill it longer to ensure melting. You can also mix different types of cheese for a more complex flavour.
After adding the cheese, return the toast to the grill. Keep an eye on it to ensure the cheese melts evenly and doesn't burn. If you're adding any additional toppings, like Worcestershire sauce, mustard, or onions, do so before the cheese is fully melted so they can heat through. Once the cheese is melted to your liking, remove the toast from the grill and enjoy!
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Adding sauces, spices, or other ingredients
There are many ways to elevate grilled cheese on toast by adding sauces, spices, or other ingredients. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Sauces
A dash of sauce can add a tangy or spicy kick to your grilled cheese. Try mixing in some hot sauce, such as sriracha, sambal, or harissa. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different types of mustard, like English Colman's mustard, or add a generous amount of Worcestershire sauce, which is a popular choice for grilled cheese in the UK. You can also try drizzling on some fruit-based sauces like jam, jelly, or fruit butter to add a sweet and tangy contrast to the savoury sandwich.
Spices and Herbs
Fresh or dried herbs can add a serious punch of flavour to your grilled cheese. Try using basil, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, parsley, or a combination of your favourite herbs. These can be added directly to the sandwich or blended into compound butters, infused oils, or sauces like pesto.
Vegetables
Loading up on veggies is a great way to add texture, flavour, and nutrition to your grilled cheese. Try incorporating leftover veggies like sautéed kale with garlic, roasted mushrooms, winter squash, or caramelised onions. For a more summery feel, add some thinly sliced apple or pear, or other fleshy fruits like figs, peaches, or berries. If you're feeling indulgent, fried mozzarella squash blossom dumplings are a delicious option.
Cheese Combinations
Using multiple types of cheese in your grilled cheese can take it to the next level. Try combining mozzarella for stretch with another cheese for flavour, such as Gruyere or vintage cheddar. You can also experiment with different textures by grating or slicing the cheese; grating creates layers and tiny pockets of air, resulting in a lighter, less stodgy sandwich.
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Bread type and thickness
When making grilled cheese on toast, the bread type and thickness are important factors to consider. Firstly, the bread should be sliced thickly, ideally between 3/4 to 1 inch thick. This thickness provides a good balance, ensuring the sandwich is sturdy and not too flimsy or soggy, while still allowing the cheese to melt properly.
You can use a variety of bread types for grilled cheese, including sandwich bread, brioche, rye bread, Texas toast, or sourdough. Sourdough, in particular, is a popular choice for grilled cheese as it offers a tangy flavour and a sturdy texture. However, it is recommended to avoid the super-thick crust varieties to prevent the bread from becoming too tough.
Additionally, when selecting bread for grilled cheese, it is important to ensure it is not too thin, soft, or holey. Thin, delicate breads can quickly fall apart under the heat and weight of the cheese. Soft breads may become squished by the cheese, and holey breads can lead to cheese escaping through the holes and burning on the pan.
For a more indulgent option, you can also try using brioche bread, which adds a rich, buttery flavour to the sandwich. Alternatively, an airy bread like ciabatta can be used if you prefer your cheese to ooze through the holes and achieve a crispy, burnt texture.
Ultimately, the bread type and thickness can be adjusted to suit your personal preferences and the desired texture and flavour of your grilled cheese on toast.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use any sliced bread (sandwich, loaf, French bread, etc.), but you want to ensure the slices are not too thick, thin, or soft. Sourdough bread is a good option.
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but you can also use mozzarella, Gruyere, Parmesan, or a combination of cheeses. Grated cheese tends to melt better than sliced cheese.
Some people prefer to toast the bread first, either in a toaster or under the grill, to ensure that the bread is crispy. Others prefer to add the cheese directly to untoasted bread and then grill it.
You can add condiments such as mustard, mayonnaise, or Worcestershire sauce. You can also add vegetables like onions, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
You can use a pan on the stove, a sandwich press or toastie maker, a grill, or an oven. Each method will give you slightly different results in terms of texture and taste.
