Andy Montoya
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a wonderful comfort food, evoking nostalgia and warm memories. The perfect grilled cheese sandwich should have a crispy, salty, buttery exterior and a molten, gooey cheese pull. While there are many types of cheese that can be used in grilled cheese sandwiches, some are better than others for achieving that signature cheese pull. The best cheese for a grilled cheese sandwich is a combination of two types of cheese: mozzarella for stretch and another for flavour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Muenster, Swiss, Cheddar, Mozzarella, Provolone, Gouda, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, Colby, Pepper Jack, American Cheese |
| Texture | Gooey, stretchy, non-greasy, greasy |
| Taste | Mild, moderately sharp, spicy, nutty, sweet |
| Bread type | White, sourdough |
| Cooking method | Low heat, stove, pan, sandwich press, toaster |
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What You'll Learn
Mozzarella is a good choice with fresh tomato and basil
Mozzarella is a fantastic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, especially when paired with fresh tomato and basil. This combination is a delicious, fresh take on the classic grilled cheese.
Mozzarella is a mild-flavoured, stretchy cheese that provides an excellent cheese pull. It melts beautifully without becoming greasy, making it a perfect option for grilled cheese sandwiches. When paired with fresh, juicy heirloom tomatoes and fragrant basil, the mozzarella creates a delicious, fresh sandwich. The basil adds a wonderful aroma and an extra layer of flavour to the sandwich.
Mozzarella is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of sandwiches. It is a good choice for those who want a simple, yet tasty sandwich. Its mild flavour means it can be paired with many other ingredients without being overwhelming. For those who enjoy a more complex sandwich, mozzarella can be combined with other cheeses to add extra flavour.
For a classic grilled cheese, mozzarella can be paired with a vintage cheddar or gruyere. This combination provides a wonderful cheese pull and a more intense flavour. For those who enjoy spicy food, mozzarella can be combined with pepper jack cheese. This adds a mild kick to the sandwich, creating an exciting flavour profile.
Mozzarella, tomato, and basil grilled cheese sandwiches are a wonderful option for those who want a fresh, tasty meal. The mozzarella provides a delightful stretch, while the tomato and basil add a refreshing flavour. This sandwich is a delicious take on the traditional grilled cheese and is sure to be a favourite for many.
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Cheddar is a classic, especially with white bread
There are many types of cheese that can be used for sandwiches, and the best type depends on personal preference. However, cheddar is a classic choice, especially when paired with white bread.
Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be found in mild or moderately sharp variations, making it perfect for melting. When used in grilled cheese sandwiches, it creates a gooey, classic flavour that many people enjoy. It is also a good option for those who want a crispy sandwich as it pairs well with buttered white bread.
White bread, particularly sliced white bread, is a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is light and fluffy, ensuring a quick melting time for the cheese. White bread also provides a nice contrast to the sharp flavour of cheddar.
To make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich with cheddar and white bread, it is important to get the right ratio of cheese to bread. The bread should not be too thick, as this may prevent the cheese from melting evenly, nor should it be too thin or too soft, as it may get squished by the cheese.
In addition to cheddar and white bread, other popular combinations for grilled cheese sandwiches include mozzarella and vintage cheddar, or mozzarella and gruyere. Some people also like to add sliced tomato and basil leaves to their sandwiches, or create a "power combination" by using a mild-flavoured stretchy cheese with a flavorful melting cheese, such as mozzarella and pepper jack.
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Muenster is great for grilled cheese
There are many types of cheese that work well in sandwiches, depending on your preference. Some popular options include cheddar, provolone, Swiss, pepper jack, mozzarella, and gouda. However, one type of cheese that is particularly well-suited for grilled cheese sandwiches is Muenster.
Muenster cheese is a semi-soft cheese known for its exceptional meltability, subtle flavour profile, and versatility. Its high moisture content and semi-soft texture allow it to transform into a gooey, creamy delight when exposed to heat, making it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches. To achieve the perfect melt, it is recommended to grate or slice Muenster thinly and cook it over gentle, even heat.
The adaptability of Muenster cheese shines through in its ability to pair well with various ingredients. It harmonizes beautifully with both cured and cooked meats, such as ham, turkey, salami, bacon, roasted chicken, and grilled steak. The subtle sweetness of Muenster is also enhanced when paired with fruits like apples, pears, and grapes. On the savoury side, it complements caramelized onions, sauteed mushrooms, and roasted peppers.
Muenster cheese is a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches due to its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, buttery flavour. Its perfect fat content allows it to heat up without becoming oily, resulting in the desired cheese pull that makes grilled cheese so satisfying. When paired with bread, Muenster melts perfectly onto a variety of options, from hearty rye to crusty sourdough.
In addition to its culinary qualities, Muenster cheese is also a staple in kitchens worldwide due to its affordability. It is often available at deli counters, where it can be purchased at a reasonable price, and employees may offer samples to help you discover new cheeses. Whether enjoyed in a simple grilled cheese sandwich or paired with more sophisticated ingredients, Muenster cheese is a versatile and delicious option for sandwich lovers everywhere.
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Gouda is best with ham, apple or roasted pepper
When it comes to sandwiches, gouda is a versatile cheese that pairs well with various ingredients. One classic combination is gouda and ham. The salty, savoury flavours of the ham complement the creaminess of the gouda, creating a satisfying and hearty sandwich. To elevate this pairing, consider using slow-roasted ham and melting the gouda for an extra indulgent bite.
For a refreshing twist, gouda also goes well with crisp, tart apples. The sweetness of the apple balances the richness of the cheese, resulting in a flavourful sandwich. Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice for their crispness and tartness. Grilling this sandwich enhances the flavours and textures, making it a popular option.
Another option is to pair gouda with roasted red peppers. This combination works well in a soup, where the smoky flavour of the gouda enhances the sweetness of the peppers. The soup can be made ahead of time and frozen for a quick, comforting meal. When making the sandwich, the roasted red peppers and gouda can be combined with other ingredients such as onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for added flavour and texture.
Gouda is a popular choice for sandwiches due to its creamy texture and versatility. It melts easily, making it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches or melts. When pairing gouda with other ingredients, consider the balance of flavours and textures to create a well-rounded and delicious sandwich.
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Provolone goes with most things
Provolone is a semi-hard Italian cheese with a soft, elastic, and stringy texture. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, and pairs well with most ingredients. Its excellent melting quality and robust flavour make it a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It can be used in combination with other cheeses, such as mozzarella and cheddar, to enhance the taste and texture of the sandwich. Provolone is also commonly used in Italian subs, salami sandwiches, and meatball sandwiches.
Provolone's mild flavour and melting ability make it a versatile cheese that can be used in various recipes. It is a popular choice for burgers, lasagna, and pizza, where it can be used as a topping or mixed with other cheeses. The cheese's sharpness and spiciness, especially in the Provolone Piccante variety, pair well with smoky flavours, making it an ideal companion for grilled sandwiches with ham or other smoked meats.
Provolone is also a great option for those who enjoy a sweet and savoury combination in their sandwiches. It pairs well with jams, such as raspberry, blackberry, and orange marmalade. For a simple yet satisfying option, grilled toast topped with provolone and jam can be a delightful breakfast choice.
In addition to sandwiches, provolone can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be added to meat and cheese boards, enhancing the flavour of dishes such as chicken provolone or eggplant and tomato sandwiches. Provolone is also a key ingredient in classic Italian dishes like meatballs and pasta.
Provolone's versatility and mild flavour make it a great choice for those looking to experiment with different cheeses in their sandwiches and other dishes. Its melting quality and ability to pair with both sweet and savoury ingredients make it a versatile option for creating unique and delicious flavour combinations.
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Frequently asked questions
While there are many options, the best cheeses for grilled cheese sandwiches are those that melt well and have a gooey texture. These include cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, Gruyère, and Muenster. For a spicier option, try pepper jack cheese.
Sourdough is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, but any sliced bread should work. Just make sure the slices aren't too thick, thin, soft, or holey.
Cooking grilled cheese at a low heat ensures the cheese melts at the same rate as the exterior browns. Spreading mayonnaise and butter on the outside of each slice of bread will give it a golden, crispy crust.
