The Best Cheeses For A Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Grilled cheese is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of cheeses and breads. The key to a great grilled cheese sandwich is using the right combination of cheeses that melt well and have a good flavour. While classic grilled cheese is made with American cheese, you can experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, fontina, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, and brie. Using two types of cheese is recommended, with one providing a good cheese pull and the other adding flavour. Sourdough bread works well for grilled cheese, but you can also use regular white bread. To enhance the flavour and ensure even cooking, try spreading mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of butter.

Mozzarella and Gruyere

Choosing the Right Bread

While you can use any sliced bread for your grilled cheese, it's important to ensure that the slices are not too thick, thin, soft, or holey, as this can affect the melting of the cheese and the overall structure of the sandwich. Sourdough bread is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, as it has a slight tang that pairs well with cheese, and it is sturdy enough to hold up to the melting cheese without becoming too crispy or squishy.

Preparing the Cheese

For the best melt, it is recommended to grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded or sliced cheese. Pre-shredded cheese is often coated with anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese will result in a smoother, more even melt.

Cooking the Sandwich

When cooking your grilled cheese sandwich, it is best to use a pan on the stove instead of a sandwich press or toastie maker. This will allow you to achieve a superior golden, buttery crust. Heat your pan to medium-low heat and cook the sandwich slowly to ensure a perfect crust and a melty interior. Spread butter on both sides of each slice of bread and cook the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

Adding Extra Ingredients

You can enhance your grilled cheese sandwich by adding extra ingredients. Fresh herbs like basil can add flavour and freshness to the sandwich. You can also try adding sliced tomatoes, caramelised onions, or a spread of whole grain mustard to elevate your sandwich.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled cheese sandwiches are often served with a side of soup, such as tomato soup or roasted tomato soup, for a comforting and flavourful meal. They can also be served with a salad or roasted vegetables on the side.

Sharp cheddar

Choosing the Right Cheddar

When selecting a sharp cheddar for your grilled cheese, opt for a block of cheese rather than pre-shredded cheddar. Block cheddar will melt more readily and give you a smoother melt. Look for a crumbly, sharp clothbound cheddar to get that flavour punch without compromising on the stretchiness of the melt.

Grating and Mixing

If you want the best of both worlds in terms of flavour and texture, try grating and mixing two types of cheddar together. Combine a mild block cheddar, which will melt more easily, with a sharp clothbound cheddar, which has a stronger flavour. This will give you a grilled cheese with the perfect balance of taste and meltiness.

Bread and Toppings

Cooking Tips

To ensure your grilled cheese with sharp cheddar turns out perfectly, follow these cooking tips:

• Spread mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of butter to get a crisp, golden exterior.
• Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese, as it will melt more smoothly and evenly.
• Keep the heat low and slow to prevent the bread from burning before the cheese melts.
• Cover the pan while cooking to trap steam and help melt the cheese evenly.

Monterey Jack

For a simple grilled cheese sandwich, you will need two slices of bread, preferably a nice, normal sourdough, and butter for spreading. You can also add condiments such as mustard or pesto to the inside of the sandwich. First, spread butter on both sides of each slice of bread. Then, place the bread in a pre-heated heavy-based skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat. Let the bread lightly toast for about a minute to create a light crust. Next, flip one slice of bread and add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Place the other slice of bread on top, with the hot toasted side in contact with the cheese. Cook the sandwich for about three minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted.

For a more elaborate Monterey Jack grilled cheese sandwich, you can add toppings such as sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, deli turkey, and bacon. To make this sandwich, start by buttering one side of each slice of bread. On four slices of bread, layer shredded Monterey Jack cheese, sliced jalapeños, deli turkey, cooked bacon, and sliced avocado. Top each sandwich with the remaining slices of bread, placing the buttered side up. Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and place two sandwiches in the pan. Use a round cake pan to gently press the sandwiches while they cook. After about four to five minutes, or when the first side is golden brown, remove the cake pan, flip the sandwiches, and press lightly with the cake pan again. Cook the other side for about two to three minutes, or until golden brown. Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board and slice them diagonally. Serve immediately.

Fontina

For a simple Fontina grilled cheese sandwich, start by shredding the cheese and tossing it with fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, chives, and scallions. You can also add thinly sliced scallions for a bit of onion bite. Then, simply mound the cheese mixture between two slices of sourdough bread and cook in a hot skillet with melted butter until golden brown.

For a slightly more complex sandwich, you can add cream cheese, chives, and green onions to the Fontina cheese. You can also spread mayonnaise and Parmesan on the outside of the bread before grilling for a golden-brown crust.

If you're feeling extra adventurous, try adding fresh tomatoes and basil to your Fontina grilled cheese. This combination creates a creamy and complementary flavor that is sure to impress.

No matter which ingredients you choose to pair with Fontina, the key to a perfect grilled cheese sandwich is to cook it slowly over medium to low heat. This ensures that the bread doesn't burn before the cheese has a chance to melt.

Brie

When making a brie grilled cheese sandwich, it is recommended to use thicker slices of bread, such as sourdough, to balance out the cheese's texture and flavour. Butter the bread before placing it in a skillet or non-stick pan is also essential.

For a savoury sandwich, prosciutto, cooked bacon, or Serrano ham pair well with the brie. Apple slices or pears can also be added for a touch of sweetness. Caramelised onions are another delicious addition, providing a sweet and gooey contrast to the brie.

For an extra flavour boost, try adding a flavoured butter, such as garlic and herb butter, or a few pinches of fresh thyme.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of bread (sourdough or other thick-sliced bread)
• 1-2 tablespoons of butter (salted or unsalted)
• 4-6 ounces of brie cheese, thinly sliced
• Optional: thinly sliced apple or pear, prosciutto or cooked bacon, caramelised onions, fresh thyme

Directions:

• Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
• Place one slice of bread, buttered-side down, in a skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat.
• Layer the brie cheese on the bread, followed by any desired additional ingredients.
• Place the second slice of bread on top, with the buttered side facing up.
• Cook the sandwich for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until it is golden brown. Then, carefully flip it over using a spatula.
• Place a lid on the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions