Kamil Perry
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a versatile dish that can be adapted to include a variety of ingredients. While some may prefer the classic combination of white bread and Kraft Singles, others may opt for different types of cheese, bread, and additional toppings to elevate their sandwich. From savoury options like bacon, pesto, and pulled pork to unconventional choices such as crunched-up pretzels, potato chips, or even melted chocolate, the possibilities are endless. Experimenting with different ingredients and techniques can take your grilled cheese sandwich from good to great.
Characteristics and Values Table for Grilled Cheese Sandwich Add-ons
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vegetables | Sliced tomato, spinach, mushroom, artichokes, sprouts, caramelized onions, jalapenos, sun-dried tomatoes, white onion, raw onion, chilli, corn |
| Meat | Bacon, pulled pork |
| Sauces | Pesto, Japanese mayo, mustard, olive relish |
| Fruits | Sliced apple, pear |
| Cheese | Mozzarella, feta, fontina, parmesan, cheddar, gruyere, vintage cheddar, provolone, American cheese, cream cheese, brie |
| Other | Kimchi, pretzels, potato chips, Cheez-Its, milk chocolate, Nutella, eggs |
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What You'll Learn
Vegetables: sliced tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, caramelised onions, and sprouts
Sliced tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, caramelised onions, and sprouts are all great additions to a grilled cheese sandwich. Here are some ideas for how to incorporate them:
Sliced Tomatoes
Tomatoes can add a juicy freshness to your grilled cheese sandwich. Try pairing them with pesto or basil, or for a more Indian-inspired take, use green chutney and chat masala. If you want to get fancy, use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones.
Spinach
Spinach is a nutritious and tasty addition to your sandwich. Pair it with pesto and cheese for an easy cheesy vegan grilled cheese, or try it with feta, grilled peppers, onions, and zucchini for a heartier sandwich. If you're feeling creative, you can even make spinach and tomato grilled cheese pitas.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms can add a savory, meaty texture to your sandwich. Try them sautéed with spinach, or go for a more indulgent option by simmering them in beer and pairing them with melty Gruyère and Brie. For a quicker option, dried mushrooms are also a great addition to a grilled cheese sandwich.
Caramelised Onions
Caramelised onions add a touch of sweetness to your sandwich. Pair them with a strong, flavorful cheese like Gruyère or Brie, or go for a classic combination with pear. For a more sophisticated sandwich, try caramelised shallots with mustard and tarragon.
Sprouts
While sprouts may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of grilled cheese, they can add a crunchy texture and a boost of nutrition. Try them on their own, or pair them with other vegetables like spinach or tomatoes. You can also experiment with different types of sprouts, such as broccoli or bean sprouts.
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Meat: bacon, pulled pork, and sliced meat
Meat is a popular addition to grilled cheese sandwiches. Deli meats, in particular, are easy to add and provide a salty, meaty flavour. Some popular meat options include bacon, pulled pork, and sliced meat.
Bacon is a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. The salt, fat, and crunch of bacon complement the rich, gooey cheese. For the best texture contrast, cook the bacon in the oven until extra crispy. In addition to the traditional bacon and cheese combination, you can also try adding a unique condiment like bacon onion jam. This condiment is made by chopping and frying bacon, then caramelizing onions in the reserved bacon fat with red onion, brown sugar, maple syrup, brewed coffee, and balsamic vinegar.
Pulled pork is another delicious meat option for grilled cheese sandwiches. While it is associated with Southern United States cuisine, pulled pork has a long and debated history dating back to early interactions between Spanish explorers and Native Americans. The cheap and readily available pork, combined with various ingredients and cooking techniques, evolved into modern-day Southern barbeque. Pulled pork's shredded consistency makes it ideal for sandwiches, often paired with other toppings like coleslaw.
Sliced meats, such as ham, are also commonly added to grilled cheese sandwiches. Ham pairs well with other ingredients like pineapple, cheese, and apple. You can even create a unique combination by adding fried egg to your ham and cheese sandwich.
Grilled cheese sandwiches are versatile and lend themselves to various meat and ingredient combinations. By experimenting with different types of meat, cheese, and additional toppings, you can create a multitude of flavour profiles to elevate your grilled cheese experience.
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Spicy: jalapeños, chilli, and paprika
If you're looking to add a kick to your grilled cheese sandwich, consider incorporating jalapeños, chilli, and paprika. These ingredients will undoubtedly elevate your sandwich, creating an explosion of flavours and a delightful sensory experience. Here are some ideas to guide you:
Jalapeños: Jalapeños are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. For a simple approach, slice fresh jalapeños and add them directly to your grilled cheese sandwich. This will impart a crisp texture and a spicy kick. Alternatively, you can roast the jalapeños in the oven to intensify their flavour and mellow their spiciness. Brush the jalapeños with oil and roast them at 425°F for approximately 15 minutes, or until slightly charred. Allow them to cool, chop them, and incorporate them into a cream cheese mixture for a creamy, spicy filling. If you prefer a tangier taste, consider using pickled jalapeños instead of fresh ones.
Chilli: Chilli is an excellent way to add heat to your sandwich. For a subtle approach, incorporate chilli powder or crushed red pepper flakes into your cream cheese mixture. This will provide a diffused heat throughout the sandwich. If you're feeling adventurous, try using sliced or diced fresh chillies. You can also roast or sauté the chillies before adding them to your sandwich for a deeper, slightly sweeter flavour.
Paprika: Paprika is a versatile spice that can add depth of flavour and colour to your grilled cheese sandwich. It pairs well with other spices and can be added to your cream cheese mixture or directly sprinkled over the cheese. Smoked paprika will add a subtle smoky flavour, while sweet paprika will contribute a milder, sweeter taste. For those who prefer a spicier option, hot paprika will provide an extra kick.
When using jalapeños, chilli, and paprika in your grilled cheese sandwich, consider the overall balance of flavours. You can adjust the quantities of these ingredients to suit your preference for spice and flavour intensity. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese and bread to find your perfect combination.
Remember, when working with spicy ingredients, it's important to consider your tolerance for spice and the preferences of those who will be enjoying the sandwich. You can always adjust the quantities or omit certain ingredients to create a milder version.
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Sweet: apples, pears, and chocolate
Apples
The Granny Smith apple is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, as its tart sweetness nicely complements Swiss cheese. To make an apple grilled cheese sandwich, fry bacon in a large non-stick pan, then remove it and add butter. Next, add apple slices and stir to coat, frying for around 5 minutes until they begin to brown and soften. Pour in maple syrup and thyme (optional), then lower the heat and stir to coat the apple. Fry until the apple is soft and caramelized. Finally, add the cheese and grill until it melts.
Alternatively, brush oil onto one side of each bread slice. Place one slice, oil-side down, into a preheated skillet. Arrange apple slices over the bread, then top with Swiss cheese and the remaining bread slice, oiled-side up. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Red apples such as Pink Lady, Jazz, Honey Crisp, or Gala are also a good choice, as they caramelize more easily and absorb the flavour of maple syrup better than green apples.
Pears
Pears and cheese are a perfect combination, offering a balance of sweet and savoury. To make a pear grilled cheese sandwich, butter two slices of bread on one side and place them buttered-side down onto a skillet. Top the bread with pear slices and cheese, then add another layer of cheese and top with the other slice of bread, buttered-side up. Grill the sandwich until the bread is toasted and golden brown, then flip and continue frying until both sides are toasted.
Chocolate
To make a chocolate grilled cheese sandwich, take two 1/2”-thick slices of bread (sourdough is preferred) and sandwich them around 1 to 2 ounces of finely chopped or grated chocolate. If you like, add a spread of Nutella or jam. Spread softened butter on the outside of the sandwich and lay it in a small, heavy skillet set over medium-low heat. Cook, occasionally pressing gently with a spatula, until the sandwich is golden and crispy on one side, about 2 to 3 minutes. Flip the sandwich and cook the other side until golden and crispy and the chocolate has melted, about 2 to 3 minutes more.
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Cheeses: mozzarella, feta, fontina, parmesan, and gruyère
Mozzarella is a great choice for grilled cheese sandwiches due to its stretchy texture and delicate, mild flavour. It pairs well with feta, which has a stronger taste and doesn't melt as well on its own. You can also combine mozzarella with a sharper, more flavourful cheese like vintage cheddar or Gruyère. Gruyère is a type of Alpine-style Swiss cheese that is salty and nutty, with a bit of funk. It's a great melter and creates a gooey, nostalgic grilled cheese sandwich.
Fontina, a young, soft, and smooth Italian cheese, is another option that melts well in a grilled cheese sandwich. It has a sweet and creamy melt and is a good choice if you're looking for a simple, classic sandwich. If you're feeling adventurous, you can pair fontina with Parmesan, as the latter has a strong flavour but doesn't melt well on its own.
For a more sophisticated grilled cheese, try a combination of mozzarella, Gruyère, and vintage cheddar. This trio offers a perfect balance of stretch, flavour, and melt. You can also experiment with different types of bread, like sourdough or ciabatta, and don't forget to butter the bread for a golden, buttery crust.
To elevate your grilled cheese even further, consider adding some toppings and sauces. Sautéed spinach, caramelised onions, roasted red peppers, or thinly sliced apples can add a gourmet touch. You can also try spreads like fig jam, mustard, or pesto. If you're a meat-eater, adding some ham or turkey can provide a protein boost.
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Frequently asked questions
Some vegetarian options to add to a grilled cheese sandwich include seasoned mushroom slices, spinach, artichokes, sautéed mushrooms, diced jalapeños, fried egg, sprouts, caramelized onions, tomatoes, pesto, and kimchi.
Some non-vegetarian options to add to a grilled cheese sandwich include bacon, pulled pork, and crispy, salty pork.
Some unique options to add to a grilled cheese sandwich include thinly sliced apple or pear, pretzels, potato chips, crunched-up Cheez-Its, melted milk chocolate, Nutella, and Japanese mayo.
Some general tips to make a great grilled cheese sandwich include using two types of cheese (one for stretch and another for flavour), using freshly grated cheese instead of sliced or pre-shredded cheese, using sourdough bread instead of ordinary sandwich bread, and using more butter than you think you need.
