Frederic Melton
Grilled cheese is a comfort food for many, and while the type of bread used is important, the choice of cheese is what makes or breaks this classic dish. The best grilled cheese sandwiches are made with a combination of cheeses that melt well and provide flavour. The most common cheeses used in grilled cheese sandwiches are American, cheddar, and mozzarella. American cheese is mild, melts well, and has a gooey texture, making it a popular choice for grilled cheese. Cheddar, on the other hand, adds a sharper flavour, and mozzarella provides the signature stretch or cheese pull. Other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, and Muenster are also popular choices, and some people like to experiment with combinations like cheddar and cream cheese or colby jack.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common and accessible cheeses | Cheddar, American, and Swiss |
| Cheese with superior melting ability | American, Mozzarella, and Gruyère |
| Bread | Sourdough, White, and Sprouted whole-grain |
| Bread texture | Not too thick, thin, soft, or holey |
| Other ingredients | Mayonnaise, Butter, and Bacon bits |
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What You'll Learn
Mozzarella for stretch
While there are many types of cheese that can be used for grilled cheese sandwiches, mozzarella is a popular choice for its stretch. In fact, some people recommend using two types of cheese for the best grilled cheese sandwich—mozzarella for stretch and another for flavour.
Mozzarella is a popular cheese made from cow's or buffalo's milk. The production of cow's milk mozzarella is the most common type and is sold worldwide. The cheese gets its stretch from the addition of organic acid to milk during manufacturing, which increases the hydration of casein and, in turn, the moisture of the cheese. This direct acidification also means the cheese can be used immediately after production, unlike mozzarella made using starter cultures.
Mozzarella is traditionally stretched in hot water, with the curd reaching a pH of 5.2 to 5.4. The curd is then stretched into mozzarella, with the proteins gently stretched to avoid breaking and altering the texture. This process is usually done with a wooden spoon, with the curd changing from lumpy to smooth and glossy.
Mozzarella is a great option for grilled cheese sandwiches because of its stretch and melting qualities, as well as its mild flavour. It can be paired with a more flavourful cheese, such as vintage cheddar or Gruyère, to create a delicious grilled cheese sandwich with the perfect cheese pull.
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Cheddar for flavour
Cheddar is a popular choice of cheese for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is a common and accessible cheese that can be found in most supermarkets. Cheddar has a strong flavour and a creamy texture, making it a good choice for those who want a tasty and indulgent grilled cheese sandwich.
When making a grilled cheese sandwich, it is important to consider the type of bread and cheese used, as well as the cooking technique. For cheddar grilled cheese, a combination of mozzarella and vintage cheddar is recommended for the best flavour and melt. Mozzarella has excellent melting qualities and a mild flavour, while vintage cheddar adds a strong, sharp flavour.
To enhance the flavour of the cheddar in a grilled cheese sandwich, it is recommended to use shredded or freshly grated cheese, as it melts faster and ensures a quick melting time. Using a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella and vintage cheddar, creates a signature gooey cheese pull that is desirable in a grilled cheese sandwich.
Additionally, the choice of bread is also important. Sourdough bread is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches as it has a solid structure that can stand up to the weight of the cheese and provides a crunchy texture. It is recommended to use bread that is not too thick, as this may prevent the cheese from melting evenly, and not too thin or soft, as it may get squished by the cheese.
Some people also recommend adding extra fat to the pan when cooking a grilled cheese sandwich, such as butter or mayonnaise, to ensure a golden brown crust and to prevent the sandwich from drying out. This technique also enhances the flavour of the cheddar by creating a crispy, buttery exterior that complements the molten cheese inside.
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American cheese
The classic combination of American cheese and white sandwich bread is a favourite for many. The simplicity of this pairing is part of its appeal, and it is often considered the quintessential grilled cheese in America. The mild flavour of American cheese also makes it a good base for adding other ingredients, such as bacon, turkey, or cranberry. It pairs well with tomato soup for dipping, or with ketchup as a condiment.
While some may consider American cheese inauthentic or unhealthy, it is a convenient and tasty option for grilled cheese sandwiches. Its melting abilities and affordability make it a popular choice, especially for those seeking a nostalgic, comforting dish. For a simple and satisfying grilled cheese, American cheese is a top choice.
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Bread type
While the type of cheese is important, the bread you use for a grilled cheese sandwich is also a key component. The bread should be able to withstand the weight of the cheese and any other ingredients without getting too squished. It should also be able to hold up to cooking and provide a crunchy texture.
Some chefs prefer sprouted whole-grain bread with seeds, which has a solid structure that can stand up to cooking and provides a crunchy texture. Other chefs prefer sourdough bread, which has a nice crispy texture and a mild flavour that won't overpower the cheese. Sourdough also has a good balance of crispiness and chewiness, making it a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches.
If you're looking for a more rustic option, a rustic levain loaf can stand up to the weight of the cheese and provide a nice contrast in texture. For those who prefer a softer bread, French bread or white bread can be a good option, especially when paired with a stronger-flavoured cheese.
When choosing the bread for your grilled cheese sandwich, it's important to consider the thickness of the slices. If the slices are too thick, the cheese may not melt properly. On the other hand, if the slices are too thin or too soft, they may get squished by the cheese or fall apart. It's also important to avoid bread that is too holey, as the cheese can escape through the holes.
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Butter and mayonnaise
When it comes to grilled cheese, butter and mayonnaise are two popular spreads that can elevate your sandwich to the next level. While the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, there are some key differences to consider.
Butter is the traditional choice for grilled cheese, known for its creamy, decadent texture and lightly sweet milk solids that transform into a nutty, toasty flavor when cooked. It pairs well with cheese and penetrates the bread, creating a rich, golden brown crust. However, some may find butter's richness overpowering, especially if you want to highlight the flavors of your cheese and bread.
Mayonnaise, on the other hand, has gained popularity as a secret ingredient for grilled cheese enthusiasts. It has a similar fat content to butter but is spreadable straight from the fridge, making it more convenient. Mayonnaise also has a higher smoke point than butter, reducing the risk of burning your sandwich. Its light, tangy flavor can enhance the taste of your cheese and bread without overwhelming them. However, some may find the tanginess of mayonnaise less appealing in combination with the bread and cheese.
When deciding between butter and mayonnaise for your grilled cheese, consider your personal taste preferences and the specific ingredients of your sandwich. If you prefer a classic, buttery flavor and don't mind softening the butter beforehand, butter may be the better option. If you're looking for a lighter, tangier alternative that can withstand higher temperatures, mayonnaise could be the way to go. Ultimately, both options can help you achieve a crispy, golden brown crust on your grilled cheese.
Additionally, you can experiment with different variations and combinations of butter and mayonnaise. For instance, you can try mixing shredded Gruyere or Parmesan into your mayonnaise or blending pesto into the mayonnaise for added flavor. You can also opt for a combination of both butter and mayonnaise, as suggested by some food enthusiasts, to bring the best of both worlds together.
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Frequently asked questions
The most common cheeses for grilled cheese are American cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella.
Sourdough bread is the most popular choice for grilled cheese. However, some people also prefer white bread, rye bread, or whole wheat bread.
The best way to cook a grilled cheese sandwich is to use a pan on a stove. Using a sandwich press or toastie maker can cause the bread to get squished and limit the amount of cheese that can be used.
Some tips for making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich include using shredded cheese or thin slices of cheese, cooking at low heat, and spreading mayonnaise on the outside of each slice of bread.
Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses for grilled cheese sandwiches, such as Gruyère, Swiss, Muenster, or Havarti.
