The Best Cheeses For A Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Grilled cheese is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of cheeses, each bringing something different to the table. While some prefer the classic American cheese, others opt for a blend of two cheeses to create a richer taste. The key to a great grilled cheese sandwich lies in the choice of cheese, with the best options being those that melt well and offer a gooey, stretchy texture.

Some popular choices include mild or medium cheddar, known for its sharp, nutty flavour and melting abilities, and mozzarella, which provides the desired stretch without a greasy feel. Fontina, a mild Italian cow's milk cheese, is also a favourite for its excellent melting qualities, creating the perfect cheese pull. For those who enjoy a little spice, pepper jack is a tasty option, while Swiss cheese is ideal for a tuna melt.

When it comes to creating a more complex flavour profile, Gruyère, a hard Swiss cheese with a nutty, warm, sweet taste, is an excellent choice. It melts beautifully due to its high water-to-oil ratio and adds a distinct flavour to the sandwich. Another option is gouda, a nutty, caramel-like cheese that pairs well with ham or roasted red peppers.

For a truly indulgent experience, double cream Brie is a rich and mild-flavoured option that melts effortlessly. It goes well with cured meats and sweet accompaniments like fig jam. If you're feeling adventurous, blue cheese can be a unique addition, but it's best combined with a milder cheese to balance its strong flavour.

Mozzarella and Pepper Jack

Mozzarella is a soft, mild cheese with a delicate, slightly stretchy texture. It is an excellent melter and pairs well with other ingredients. For a caprese-style grilled cheese, try mozzarella with pesto and juicy tomatoes. You could also add some sliced apple or fig jam for a gourmet twist.

If you're after a little more spice and a whole lot of gooeyness, Pepper Jack is your cheese. This cheese has a sweet and spicy kick and is a great melter. Try it with roasted sweet mini peppers and pastrami for a delicious, satisfying sandwich.

The Best Bread for Grilled Cheese

Whether you choose Mozzarella, Pepper Jack, or both, the key to a great grilled cheese is to start with sturdy bread. Sourdough or Ciabatta are excellent choices as they can withstand the weight of the cheese and any additional ingredients without becoming soggy.

Grilled Cheese Cooking Tips

For a golden, crispy exterior, spread the outside of your bread with mayonnaise before grilling. You can also try softened butter. To help the cheese melt faster, cover the pan with a lid to trap the steam. Keep the heat low and slow—no higher than medium-low. This will ensure the bread doesn't burn before the cheese has melted.

Get Creative with Your Grilled Cheese

While Mozzarella and Pepper Jack are fantastic choices, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as Havarti, Monterey Jack, or Swiss. For a sharper flavour, try a blend of young and aged cheddar. You can also add extras like sliced apple, caramelised onions, roasted tomatoes, or even a slather of fig jam.

So, get out your grill pan, choose your cheese, and start experimenting!

Cheddar

When making a grilled cheese sandwich with cheddar, it's important to use the right type of bread and cooking technique. Sourdough or white bread are popular choices, and cooking the sandwich at a low heat ensures that the cheese melts evenly. Shredding the cheese or using thin slices also helps to achieve a consistent melt.

Some specific brands of cheddar that are recommended for grilled cheese sandwiches include The Stag by Deer Creek Cheese, Prairie Breeze by Milton Creamery, and Lucky Linda Clothbound Cheddar by Redhead Creamery.

Monterey Jack

When making a grilled cheese sandwich with Monterey Jack, it is recommended to combine it with other cheeses, such as cheddar or American cheese, to enhance the taste and texture. You can also add fillings like buffalo chicken, pulled pork, or chopped kimchi for a more complex and flavourful sandwich. For a spicy kick, include some pickled jalapeños.

To achieve the perfect grilled cheese sandwich, it is essential to use shredded cheese or thin slices of cheese to ensure even melting. Sourdough bread is an excellent choice for a crunchier exterior, while white bread creates a classic, light, and fluffy texture. Using mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of butter will result in a tangier, crispier exterior. Cooking the sandwich at a low heat helps ensure that the cheese melts evenly without burning the bread.

For an extra special treat, serve your grilled cheese sandwich with a bowl of tomato soup for dipping or with a side of ketchup.

Gruyère

You can also add other ingredients to complement the cheese. Gruyère pairs well with shaved ham—it is, after all, included in the French classic, croque madame. Fresh chopped herbs and caramelized onions also go well with the nutty flavour of Gruyère. For a sweet and savoury pairing, you could add some fig jam or chopped blackberries.

If you can't get your hands on Gruyère, another Swiss cheese like Emmental or Raclette makes a good substitute.

Sourdough bread

When making a grilled cheese sandwich with sourdough bread, it's important to slice the bread to a thickness of around half an inch. This will ensure that the cheese melts before the bread burns.

For the best flavour and texture, it's also recommended to grate your own cheese, rather than buying pre-shredded cheese, as this often contains additives that hinder melting. A combination of cheeses is often used in grilled cheese sandwiches, with popular choices including:

• Cheddar
• Monterey Jack
• Mozzarella
• Gruyère
• Gouda
• American cheese
• Brie
• Swiss cheese
• Havarti
• Fontina
• Muenster
• Colby Jack
• Goat cheese

Frequently asked questions