The Ultimate Guide To Grilled Cheese Sandwich Perfection

Grilled cheese is a timeless classic, beloved by children and adults alike. Gooey, buttery, and toasty, it is one of the ultimate comfort foods. But what goes well with grilled cheese?

The most popular pairing for grilled cheese is arguably tomato soup, with many people dipping their sandwiches into the soup for added flavour. Other popular soup pairings include pumpkin soup, chicken noodle soup, and potato soup.

If you're looking for something crispier, French fries are a great option. Sweet potato fries and potato wedges are also solid choices. For something a little different, you could try onion rings, air fryer tater tots, or tortilla chips.

For a refreshing crunch, many people enjoy a simple salad or crudités on the side. A Greek salad or a cucumber salad are popular options, as well as a spinach salad or a simple garden salad.

If you're looking for something more substantial, a pasta salad or potato salad can be a great pairing.

And let's not forget the condiments! Ketchup, tomato jam, hummus, and barbecue sauce are all tasty dips for your grilled cheese sandwich.

French Fries

Loaded Cheese Fry Grilled Cheese

For a unique twist on the classic grilled cheese, try adding French fries to the sandwich. Start by buttering one side of each slice of bread and grilling it. This step adds sturdiness to the bread so that it can hold the toppings without becoming soggy. Spread hot chilli Sriracha mayo on the grilled side of the bread. Layer crumbled bacon, cheese slices, and French fries on top of the mayo. Add another slice of bread on top, butter the outer side, and grill the sandwich until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

Double Grilled Cheese with Seasoned French Fries

This recipe combines two grilled cheese sandwiches with a side of seasoned French fries. Prepare the French fries according to the package instructions. While the fries are cooking, assemble and grill the sandwiches. Place two slices of Colby Jack cheese and one slice of Havarti cheese between two slices of white bread. Spread butter on the outside of the bread and cook on a griddle over medium-high heat for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve the grilled cheese sandwiches with the seasoned French fries for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Grilled Cheese with a Side of French Fries

Sometimes, the simplest combinations are the best. Pairing a classic grilled cheese sandwich with a side of crispy French fries can be just as satisfying as more complex recipes. Whether you prefer your fries plain or seasoned, this combination makes for a comforting and indulgent meal.

Grilled Cheese Fries

For an extra indulgent treat, try grilled cheese fries. This recipe takes the concept of a grilled cheese sandwich and transforms it into a crispy, cheesy fry. It involves layering cheese slices between two layers of crescent roll dough, sealing the edges, and then slicing the dough into strips. These strips are then deep-fried to create gooey, flaky, and irresistible grilled cheese fries. Serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice for an over-the-top snack or side dish.

Tomato Soup

There is perhaps no better companion to a grilled cheese sandwich than a bowl of tomato soup. This classic combination is a simple, comforting meal that can be whipped up in no time and is a favourite for both children and adults alike. While the soup can be made with canned tomatoes, roasting fresh, ripe tomatoes with aromatics like garlic and basil gives the soup a more complex flavour. For an extra kick, add some chilli flakes or red pepper flakes.

The soup is usually pureed until smooth, and some recipes call for the addition of cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture. To make the soup even more decadent, top it off with a swirl of cream and some fresh basil leaves. As for the grilled cheese, thick slices of sourdough bread and a generous amount of cheese are key. For a more indulgent sandwich, try adding some sliced tomatoes, or get creative with different types of cheese—spicy jalapeno or ghost pepper cheese will certainly wake up your taste buds!

Salads

When it comes to the cheese, halloumi is the star of the show. This semi-hard, salty cheese, originating from Cyprus, has a high melting point, making it ideal for grilling. Its unique texture and flavour—somewhere between mozzarella and queso fresco—make it a tasty and satisfying addition to any salad.

To prepare the halloumi for your salad, simply pat the cheese dry, rub it with olive oil, and grill each side for a couple of minutes until you achieve the desired level of crispness and golden-brown colour.

Now, let's talk about what else you can include in your grilled cheese salad. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Vegetables: Cucumbers, red onions, cherry or grape tomatoes, and avocado are all excellent choices, adding freshness, crunch, and a boost of nutrients.
• Fruits: Sliced strawberries or peaches can add a touch of sweetness and a unique flavour dimension to your salad.
• Dressings: A creamy basil dressing or a tangy tomato vinaigrette can complement the grilled halloumi perfectly. You can also experiment with balsamic vinaigrette or a blue cheese vinaigrette for a more indulgent option.
• Crunchy Toppings: Toasted panko breadcrumbs, pepitas (pumpkin seeds), or nuts can add a satisfying crunch to your salad.

When assembling your salad, start with your chosen base, drizzle on your dressing, and give it a good mix. Then, add your desired vegetables, fruits, and crunchy toppings. Finally, place your grilled halloumi on top, ensuring it's still warm so you can enjoy that perfect, oozy texture.

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and find the combination that suits your taste!

Pickles

Firstly, it is important to consider the type of pickle. Standard dill pickles or sweet pickles are the most common varieties used, but other types such as bread and butter pickles or pickled jalapenos can also be used. Using pickle chips or sandwich pickles is recommended, as they are flat and will make the sandwich less bulky. However, if using pickle spears, they can be chopped into smaller pieces to fit more easily in the sandwich.

Secondly, the placement of the pickles is a matter of preference. Some people prefer to grill the pickles inside the sandwich, adding them between layers of cheese to help hold the sandwich together. Others prefer to place the pickles on top of the grilled cheese, either draped over the sandwich or wedged inside after cooking to maintain their crunch.

Additionally, pickles can be paired with other ingredients to enhance their flavour in a grilled cheese sandwich. Herbs such as chives, basil, or dill can complement the tangy flavour of the pickles. Spicy elements like sriracha, hot sauce, or jalapenos can also be added to create a zesty flavour profile.

Finally, when adding pickles to a grilled cheese sandwich, it is important to consider the potential for sogginess. Wet pickles can make the sandwich soggy, so it is recommended to blot them with a paper towel before adding them to the sandwich. Chopping the pickles into smaller pieces can also help prevent sogginess and allow the cheese to melt around them more easily.

Fruit

Cherries and Cheese

Tart cherries, such as Amarella and Morello, are an excellent choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. Their tangy and sweet flavours complement the creaminess of cheeses like gouda, sharp cheddar, pecorino, and manchego. The deep red colour of Morello cherries also adds a beautiful contrast to the light cheese and bread.

Apples and Cheddar

Apples and cheddar cheese is a classic combination, especially for those who enjoy a crunch in their grilled cheese. Try using thinly sliced Granny Smith apples for a tarter flavour or Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter note. If you're not a fan of intense cheddar, opt for Brie, which has a softer, nuttier flavour that pairs well with apples.

Figs and Cheese

Fresh figs can be a wonderful, albeit less common, addition to a grilled cheese sandwich. Their seedy texture and sweet flavour, reminiscent of currants, strawberries, and dates, pair beautifully with mild cheeses like ricotta or burrata. For a tangier option, try chevre, and don't forget to add a sprinkle of Parmesan Reggiano for an extra kick of salt and umami.

Peaches and Mozzarella

Grilled peaches are a perfect match for a grilled cheese sandwich. Try using mozzarella for a milky and fresh flavour, or smoked gouda for a smoky, nutty twist. Cream cheese can also help soften the intensity of other cheeses while adding a creamy texture.

Blueberries and Brie

Blueberries, especially wild Maine blueberries, add a wonderful texture and flavour to a grilled cheese sandwich. Their small size helps them stay in place, and their mellow, less tart flavour pairs well with cheeses like cheddar, Brie, or gruyere. Use a tangy sourdough or a mellow-flavoured white bread to let the berries and cheese shine.

Apricots and Havarti

Apricots are another stone fruit that works surprisingly well in a grilled cheese sandwich. Their meaty texture and honey-like sweetness pair beautifully with havarti, a mild cheese with undertones of hazelnut. For a nuttier, sweeter option, try gruyere, or ricotta for a lighter, more refreshing flavour.

If you're not ready to commit to whole fruit in your grilled cheese, you can always start with fruit spreads or preserves. Apricot fruit spread or preserves are a popular choice, adding a touch of sweetness to the sandwich. You can also experiment with different combinations, such as raspberry preserves with muenster cheese or strawberry spread with cheddar.

So, the next time you're craving a grilled cheese sandwich, don't be afraid to get creative and add some fruit to the mix!

Frequently asked questions