The Perfect Pair: Grilled Cheese's Tasty Companions

Grilled cheese is a classic comfort food, and there are endless ways to elevate this simple dish. While some may enjoy a plain grilled cheese, others may prefer to experiment with different types of bread, cheese, and add-ons. Regardless of your preference, there are many side dishes that can complement your grilled cheese sandwich.

Soups

Tomato Soup

The ultimate classic pairing with grilled cheese. Whether it's the traditional canned variety, a creamy bisque, a cold gazpacho, or one with creative additions like fennel and white beans, tomato soup is a reliable choice that never disappoints.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a comforting and familiar option that pairs perfectly with grilled cheese. It's a heartwarming combination that will remind you of home.

Red Lentil Soup

For something a little different, try an Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup. This soup is tomato-based, providing a familiar flavour, while also offering a variety of vegetables and spices for a comforting and healthy option.

Pumpkin Soup

A pumpkin soup is an excellent choice, especially during autumn. The sweetness of the pumpkin complements the savoury grilled cheese, creating a delightful contrast of flavours.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Take your grilled cheese experience to the next level by dipping it into a creamy broccoli cheddar soup. The cheese in the soup enhances the cheesiness of the sandwich, creating a decadent and indulgent meal.

Potato Soup

A creamy potato soup is a delicious and hearty option to pair with grilled cheese. It's a comforting and satisfying combination that will leave you feeling full and content.

Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup is another creamy and delicious option to serve with grilled cheese. It's packed with flavour and is a great way to add some vegetables to your meal.

Vegetable Soup

A light and healthy option, vegetable soup is perfect for dipping your grilled cheese sandwich. Load it with tons of veggies for a nutritious and satisfying experience.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

For a more earthy and savoury option, try a cream of mushroom soup. The meaty texture of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the melted cheese in the sandwich.

Chili

If you're looking for something with a kick, chili is a great choice. The spiciness of the chili contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the grilled cheese, creating an interesting and flavourful combination.

Beef Vegetable Soup

Beef vegetable soup, made with tender chunks of slow-simmered chuck roast, onions, celery, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, and green beans, is a hearty and comforting option that will fill you up and warm you from within.

Salads

Green Salads

A simple green salad is a great option to serve with grilled cheese. You can use a variety of fresh vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, arugula, or mixed greens as a base. Add some crunch and texture with nuts or seeds, and top with your favourite dressing. A simple vinaigrette or a tangy ranch dressing would pair well. You can also add some fruit like apples or berries for a touch of sweetness to complement the cheese in the sandwich.

Spinach Salad

For a spinach-based salad, try a combination of spinach, apples, and a balsamic vinegar poppy seed dressing. This salad has a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavours, with the apples providing a refreshing contrast to the grilled cheese.

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad is always a good option to serve on the side. You can make your own dressing or use a store-bought one, such as Girard’s Caesar dressing. If you're short on time, you can also opt for a bagged Caesar salad kit from Costco.

Mediterranean Salad

If you're looking for a veggie-packed option without leafy greens, a Mediterranean salad is a great choice. It typically includes crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes, as well as hearty chickpeas and creamy feta cheese.

Pasta Salad

Pasta salads are a filling and satisfying option to pair with grilled cheese. You can go for a traditional pasta salad or try something like a tortellini pasta salad with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing.

Potato Salad

Potato salad is another hearty and comforting side dish that goes well with grilled cheese. You can make it with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option.

Fruit Salad

A fruit salad is a refreshing and light option to serve on the side. Some of the best fruits to pair with grilled cheese include apples, grapes, pears, cherries, watermelon, and berries. You can also dip your grilled cheese in applesauce for a sweet and savoury combination.

Fruit and Veg

Grilled cheese is a classic comfort food, and there are plenty of fruit and vegetable side dishes to accompany it. Here are some ideas to enhance your grilled cheese experience:

Fruit Sides

Fruit can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of grilled cheese. The following fruits are recommended as ideal pairings:

• Apples: Sliced apples can be served on the side or even spread with apple butter on the sandwich. Apple slices are also great for dipping in cheese sauce or fondue.
• Grapes: Crisp, juicy grapes are a perfect match for grilled cheese, especially when paired with nuts and cheese.
• Pears: Like apples, pears can be sliced and served as a side or spread on the sandwich.
• Cherries, watermelon, and berries: These fruits offer a burst of freshness and can be served as a simple fruit salad.

Vegetable Sides

Vegetables can add a healthy crunch and balance to your grilled cheese meal. Here are some options:

• Salads: A simple green salad or arugula salad can be a light and refreshing accompaniment. For something heartier, try a spinach salad with apples, a Caesar salad, or a Mediterranean salad with vegetables, chickpeas, and feta cheese.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots and asparagus, and air fryer or oven-roasted broccoli can be delicious and healthy sides.
• Pickles: Dill pickles are a classic choice, but feel free to get creative with sweet pickles or pickled onions, beets, or carrots for added flavour and crunch.
• Tomatoes: Sliced tomatoes are a fresh and tasty option, as they complement the cheese well. You can also serve them on the side with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Chips and Fries

Homemade French Fries

French fries are a perfect side dish for grilled cheese sandwiches. They are crispy, perfectly seasoned, and can be easily made at home. Dip them in ketchup or your favourite sauce for an even better experience.

Sweet Potato Fries

For a slightly sweeter option, try making sweet potato fries. They are a great alternative to regular potatoes and pair well with the grilled cheese. You can bake or air fry them for a healthier option.

Parmesan Truffle Fries

If you want to take your fries to the next level, try making parmesan truffle fries. This indulgent side dish combines the earthy flavour of truffles with the sharpness of parmesan cheese. You can bake them in the oven or cook them in an air fryer.

Potato Chips

Potato chips are a classic snack that also go well with grilled cheese. You can buy your favourite brand or make them at home. If you're feeling adventurous, try making your own ketchup to dip them in—it's lower in sugar and sodium than store-bought ketchup.

Air Fryer Tater Tots

Tater tots are another easy and delicious side dish option. They can be made in an air fryer in just a few minutes and pair perfectly with grilled cheese.

Baked Sweet Plantains

For something a little different, try baking sweet plantains. They are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and the perfect combination of salty and sweet. They make a fun alternative to traditional chips or fries.

When it comes to grilled cheese, chips and fries are a classic choice for a reason. They provide a crunchy and savoury contrast to the melted cheese and toasted bread. Whether you go for a classic option or get creative with your seasonings and dips, chips and fries are always a satisfying choice.

Dips and Sauces

Pizza Sauce

This dip is a tasty nod to the classic combination of grilled cheese and tomato soup. It pairs especially well with grilled cheese sandwiches that include ham or Italian sausage.

Hummus

Hummus is a great option for those who want a healthier dip. Try dill pickle hummus for a unique twist that complements the flavours of a grilled cheese sandwich. You can use it as a dip for the sandwich or for some vegetable sticks on the side.

Santa Fe Ranch

This zesty Greek yoghurt-based dip adds a taco-inspired twist to your grilled cheese.

Barbecue Sauce

A homemade BBQ sauce is a great way to add a southwest flare to your sandwich. It is a naturally sweetened sauce that will give your grilled cheese a flavourful kick.

Tomato Jam

Tomato jam is a super flavourful alternative to ketchup, which is a common condiment for grilled cheese. You can use it as a dip or spread it on your sandwich.

Applesauce

Applesauce is a tasty spread for grilled cheese sandwiches, especially if you add apple butter. It also works well as a dip, and apple and cheese is a classic combination.

Basil Aioli

This tangy, delicious sauce is perfect for dipping your grilled cheese sandwich or vegetables. It is a classic lunchtime side dish and a great way to get kids to eat their veggies.

Jalapeno Ranch Dip

This dip is an easy recipe using simple ingredients like sour cream, mayo, spices, and jalapenos. It's bright, spicy, and refreshing—perfect for dipping your grilled cheese or veggies.

Cheese Sauce

Take your grilled cheese to the next level by dipping it into a rich and creamy cheese sauce. Serve it with blanched broccoli florets for a decadent meal.

Marinara Sauce

This simple ingredient sauce is the perfect side dish for dipping your grilled cheese sandwich and adding amazing flavour.

Ketchup

Ketchup is a classic condiment for grilled cheese, but why not try making your own? Homemade ketchup is lower in sugar and sodium, and you can get the sweetness from garden tomatoes and peppers instead.

Spicy Tomato Jam

If you like a little spice with your grilled cheese, try this spicy tomato jam. It will add a kick to your sandwich and can be used as a spread or a dip.

Salsa

Salsa, whether fresh or jarred, adds a southwest flavour to your grilled cheese. It's a great way to add some spice and freshness to your meal.

Frequently asked questions