Randy Chandler
A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic comfort food, evoking nostalgia and satisfying cravings with its crispy, buttery bread and oozing, melted cheese. While there are many ways to make a grilled cheese sandwich, the key to achieving that perfect, gooey consistency is getting the right balance of cheese to bread. But how much cheese is too much cheese?
Characteristics and Values Table for a Grilled Cheese Sandwich
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bread | Sourdough, white, ciabatta, brioche, whole wheat, bakery bread, or any type of sturdy loaf |
| Cheese | Cheddar, Gruyere, Raclette, Mozzarella, Havarti, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Brie, Fontina, Gouda, American, or any good melter |
| Add-ons | Butter, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic, dry mustard, coconut oil, eggs, bacon, apples, pickles, spinach, caramelized onions, broccoli, roasted peppers, fruit, sauces, meats |
| Cooking Style | Cooked slowly (2-4 minutes per side) on low to medium-low heat with a lid on the skillet |
| Serving Suggestions | Tomato-based soups and stews |
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What You'll Learn
Bread type: Sourdough, white, or brioche
Sourdough, white, and brioche are all popular bread choices for grilled cheese. However, the type of bread you choose can depend on your personal preferences and the specific ingredients used in your grilled cheese sandwich. Here are some considerations for each type of bread:
Sourdough
Sourdough bread is a versatile and popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. Its tangy flavour and sturdy texture make it a great complement to melted cheese. Sourdough bread has a crispier crust and a more open crumb structure (bigger holes) than other breads, which can create a satisfying crunch. However, the irregular holes may cause cheese to drip, so it is recommended to look for country-style sourdoughs with a tighter crumb. Sourdough bread also pairs well with cheese and tomato soup, making it a favourite among those who like to dip their sandwiches.
White
White bread, especially thinly sliced soft white bread, is a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is accessible, simple, and easy to work with. White bread has a tight crumb structure, which keeps the cheese from oozing out as it melts. It also has the perfect thickness for an ideal cheese-to-bread ratio. However, some people may prefer a heartier or more flavourful bread option.
Brioche
Brioche is a soft, rich, and buttery bread that creates an extra-decadent grilled cheese sandwich. It pairs well with mild, melty cheeses such as young Gouda or thin slices of Brie and raspberry jam. Brioche bread is also a good choice for those who prefer a lighter and airier texture. However, some people may find it too heavy or rich for their taste. Brioche is also excellent when used in a panini press or air fryer, creating a "smashed" grilled cheese sandwich.
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Cheese type: Cheddar, Gruyère, or American
The type of cheese used in a grilled cheese sandwich is a matter of personal preference, and there are many options to choose from. Three popular varieties are Cheddar, Gruyère, and American cheese.
Cheddar is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, with some preferring sharp cheddar specifically. Shredded cheddar is also an option, and it can be paired with mozzarella, oregano, and warm ham slices. Cheddar can also be combined with other cheeses such as Gruyère and Muenster.
Gruyère is a type of Swiss cheese that has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It is known for its excellent melting properties, making it a great choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is often paired with caramelized onions and cooked in rosemary butter to enhance the flavor.
American cheese is a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, especially for those who prefer the traditional version. It is often used with white bread and toasted until melted and golden brown.
When making a grilled cheese sandwich, it is important to use the right amount of cheese. While it is tempting to overload the sandwich with cheese, this can lead to uneven melting and spillage. A generous 1/4 to 1/3 cup of grated cheese is generally recommended for the perfect balance of cheese and bread.
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Cheese amount: 1/3 to 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Grilled cheese is a classic sandwich that evokes childhood nostalgia and is loved by many. While the type of bread, cheese, and add-ons can vary, the key to a great grilled cheese is getting the right balance of cheese to bread. Too much cheese will throw off the balance, resulting in uneven melting and greasy puddles in your skillet.
When it comes to shredded cheese, the recommended amount for a grilled cheese sandwich is 1/3 to 1/2 cup per sandwich. This amount ensures the perfect cheese-to-bread ratio, creating a sandwich that is oozy and indulgent without becoming messy. Using a standard loaf of sandwich bread with small holes, such as sourdough, helps prevent the cheese from oozing out and provides the ideal thickness for even melting.
Measuring shredded cheese by volume, 1 cup typically yields 4 ounces of semi-hard cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella. Therefore, 1/3 to 1/2 cup of shredded cheese would be approximately 1.3 to 2 ounces. However, it's important to note that the exact weight may vary depending on the type of cheese and the level of moisture it contains.
When preparing a grilled cheese sandwich, it's essential to cook it slowly over low to medium-low heat for 2-4 minutes per side. Covering the skillet with a lid helps trap the heat and gives the cheese a head start on melting evenly. Spreading butter or a combination of butter and mayonnaise on the bread creates a golden, crispy crust.
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Butter or mayo: For spread or frying
The classic grilled cheese sandwich is a shining star in the wide world of sandwiches. While the traditional recipe calls for butter, there has been a recent surge in popularity for swapping it out for mayonnaise.
Mayonnaise has a similar fat content to butter but is spreadable straight out of the fridge. Butter, on the other hand, is a solid fat and can be extremely firm, requiring some time to soften before it can be spread smoothly. Mayonnaise also has a higher smoke point than butter, which means it is less likely to burn and can withstand higher temperatures. This makes it a more foolproof option for achieving a golden brown crust without burning.
The main drawback of using mayonnaise is that it lacks the creamy, nostalgic flavour of butter. Butter provides a rich, indulgent taste that many associate with the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Combining equal parts mayonnaise and softened butter can be a good option for those who want the best of both worlds. This method provides the flavour of butter with the practical benefits of mayonnaise, resulting in a crisp, golden sandwich without the risk of burning.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use butter or mayonnaise comes down to personal preference. Some celebrities and chefs swear by mayonnaise as the secret to their grilled cheese sandwiches, while others prefer the traditional flavour of butter. Both options will produce a delicious, golden, crispy crust, so feel free to experiment and see which one you prefer!
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Sides: Tomato soup or pickles
Grilled cheese sandwiches are often served with tomato soup, a combination that became popular during World War II when it was served to military personnel. This classic pairing is a simple, comforting meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. The soup is typically made with ripe, seasonal tomatoes, or canned whole tomatoes, and is seasoned with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, sugar, and basil leaves. Other herbs like thyme and oregano can also be added for extra flavour. To make the soup even more hearty, it can be served with a swirl of cream.
Tomato soup is not the only soup that goes well with grilled cheese sandwiches. Chicken noodle soup, potato soup, and borscht are all tasty, comforting options. These soups are especially good when served with a grilled cheese sandwich, as the melted cheese and toasted bread complement the broth.
Pickles are another popular side dish for grilled cheese sandwiches. Dill pickles are a common choice, but sweet pickles or other pickled vegetables, such as onions, beets, or carrots, can also add a crunchy texture and tangy flavour to the sandwich. Fried pickles are a delicious variation that can be made by air-frying dill pickles, which gives them a crispy texture and enhances their flavour. Pickles can also be added directly to the grilled cheese sandwich for an unexpected twist.
In addition to these classic options, there are several other side dishes that can complement grilled cheese sandwiches. French fries or potato wedges, for example, are crispy and perfectly seasoned, making them a versatile side dish. Baked sweet plantains offer a similar crispy-creamy texture contrast and a unique combination of salty and sweet flavours. For a healthier option, a simple green salad can be served alongside the sandwich.
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Frequently asked questions
A good rule of thumb is 1/3 to 1/2 cup of shredded cheese per sandwich or a 1-ounce slice if using a standard loaf of sandwich bread.
Sliced sandwich bread is the best bread for grilled cheese as it has a tight crumb (small holes) which keeps the cheese from oozing out. You can use sourdough, brioche, or even ciabatta.
Cook low and slow. A grilled cheese should be cooked slowly, 2-4 minutes per side over low to medium-low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat and help the cheese melt.
You can spread butter, mayonnaise, or a combination of both on the bread. Mayonnaise helps the bread brown and creates a crisp, golden exterior.
Any cheese that melts well can be used, such as mozzarella, havarti, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or cheddar.
