Kamil Perry
Grilled cheese is a simple dish, but choosing what to cook with it can be a challenge. The classic North American combination is a grilled cheese sandwich with a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. However, there are many other options, from salads to fries and dips, or even another grilled cheese sandwich. If you're feeling creative, you can experiment with different types of bread, cheese, and fillings to create your own unique grilled cheese sandwich.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Dish | Comfort food, side dish, snack |
| Main Ingredients | Bread, cheese |
| Cheese Options | American, cheddar, gouda, gruyere, raclette, fontina, brie, blue cheese, mozzarella, muenster, pepper jack, parmesan |
| Bread Options | White, rye, sourdough, Pullman |
| Other Ingredients | Butter, mayonnaise, mustard, basil, bacon, avocado, tomato, onion, spinach, broccoli, red peppers, apple, fig jam |
| Cooking Method | Pan-fried, air-fried |
| Sides | Tomato soup, potato soup, truffle fries, potato chips, fruit, salad, pickles |
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What You'll Learn
Sides: fries, dips, salads, soups, or pickles
When it comes to sides, fries are a popular choice to accompany grilled cheese. You can make them at home, with a crispy outside and soft inside, or go for the healthier option of oven-baked or air-fried sweet potato fries. For an added kick, serve them with a spicy wasabi-pea dip. If you want to be truly indulgent, try parmesan truffle fries, which can also be baked or air-fried.
Dips are another great side option. You can go for something spicy like a tomato jam, bacon aioli, or salsa, or opt for a sweeter option like a fruit and cheese combo with sliced pears or grapes. If you're feeling creative, you can make your own dip with flavours like crispy bacon, brown sugar, fresh basil, or spicy chillies.
Salads can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of grilled cheese. A simple crisp salad or a potato salad can be a great choice, especially during the warmer months.
Soups are also a classic pairing with grilled cheese. A comforting bowl of tomato soup is a well-loved option, but you can also try potato leek soup for something a little different.
Lastly, pickles are a must-have side for many grilled cheese enthusiasts. You can go for a full sour or dill pickle on the side, or slice them up and add them directly to your sandwich for that perfect crunchy bite.
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Bread: white, sourdough, rye, or Pullman
When it comes to grilled cheese, the type of bread you use can make a big difference in taste and texture. Here are some popular options:
White Bread
White bread is a classic choice for grilled cheese, often used in diner-style recipes. It provides a neutral flavour that pairs well with a variety of cheeses and fillings. White bread is also soft and easy to bite into, making it a good option for those who prefer a more delicate texture. For an extra crunchy texture, some people choose to cook their grilled cheese in mayonnaise instead of butter, resulting in a crisp, golden exterior without any greasy residue.
Sourdough
Sourdough bread adds a tangy flavour to your grilled cheese, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more complex taste. Its chewy texture and large holes create a unique bite, especially when paired with melted cheese. Sourdough is often used in gourmet grilled cheese recipes, such as those featuring fig jam and red onion.
Rye
Rye bread brings a distinct earthy flavour to your grilled cheese. It has a denser texture compared to white bread, giving your sandwich a more substantial feel. Rye bread pairs well with sharp cheeses like cheddar and gouda, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Pullman
Pullman bread is a type of loaf with a soft, fluffy texture and a light crust. It is often used for grilled cheese sandwiches due to its ability to toast up nicely without becoming too hard. Pullman bread is featured in recipes that call for thicker slices, such as those stuffed with arugula, roasted red peppers, and gouda or muenster cheese.
No matter which type of bread you choose, the key to a perfect grilled cheese is achieving a crisp, golden exterior and a gooey, melty interior. This is typically accomplished by cooking your sandwich on low to medium-low heat with a generous amount of butter or mayonnaise in the pan.
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Butter: generous amount, or substitute with mayo
When making grilled cheese, the use of butter or mayo can significantly impact the taste and texture of the sandwich. While some prefer the traditional method of cooking the sandwich in butter, others have found that substituting butter with mayo yields a crispier, less greasy sandwich with a more neutral flavour.
Butter: Generous Amount
For grilled cheese lovers who want a classic, buttery taste, using a generous amount of butter in the pan is essential. Buttering both sides of the sandwich and cooking it over medium-low heat will ensure a golden brown, crispy exterior. The butter also helps to create a barrier between the bread and the pan, preventing the sandwich from sticking and making it easier to flip. Additionally, the steam created by covering the pan with a lid helps melt the cheese evenly.
Tips for Using Butter
- Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet to heat the butter and cook the sandwich.
- Adjust the heat as needed to ensure the bread doesn't brown too quickly.
- Layer the cheese on top of the mustard before placing the other slice of bread on top, with the buttered side facing out.
- Cover the pan with a lid to trap the heat and create a steamy environment that melts the cheese perfectly.
Substitute with Mayo
Some grilled cheese enthusiasts prefer to substitute butter with mayo, spreading it on the outside of the bread before placing the sandwich in the pan. This method results in a crispier sandwich with a more neutral flavour, as the mayo helps the bread brown without adding any greasy residue. This technique is perfect for those who don't like the smell or taste of butter but still want a golden, crispy grilled cheese sandwich.
Tips for Using Mayo
- Slather both slices of bread with mayo before placing them in the pan.
- Use a nonstick pan or skillet to ensure the sandwich doesn't stick.
- Cook the sandwich over medium heat until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- For an extra crispy texture, use a lid to trap the heat and create an even crispier exterior.
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Cheese: cheddar, Gruyère, Raclette, or American
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a delicious and indulgent treat, and the type of cheese you choose can elevate this simple dish. Here are some ideas for what to cook with grilled cheese, focusing on four popular varieties of cheese: cheddar, Gruyère, Raclette, and American.
Cheddar
Cheddar is a versatile and popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. Its sharp, nutty flavour and excellent melting qualities make it a favourite for many. For a classic combination, pair sharp cheddar with mozzarella and sliced tomatoes. You can also experiment with other ingredients such as garlic powder, parsley, and basil, and a touch of mayonnaise or Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
Gruyère
Gruyère, a type of Swiss Alpine cheese, is known for its strong, salty umami flavour. When paired with good sourdough bread, the slight tang of the sourdough complements the Gruyère beautifully. For an extra indulgent twist, try a combination of Gruyère and mozzarella, or even brie, with thinly sliced apples or a spread of fig jam.
Raclette
Raclette is another variety of Swiss Alpine cheese that is perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches. It melts beautifully and can be served in a variety of ways. The traditional way to enjoy Raclette is to melt the cheese and serve it over boiled potatoes, with cornichons and pickled onions on the side. However, you can also pour the melted cheese over grilled vegetables, or even directly onto potato slices. Leftover Raclette can be used for toasted sandwiches with ham.
American
American cheese is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, especially when combined with other cheeses like mozzarella. For a simple and classic grilled cheese, American cheese can be paired with buttered bread and toasted until crispy and golden. You can also add herbs, spices, or caramelised onions for extra flavour.
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Fillings: veggies, fruits, meats, or sauces
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a great comfort food and can be made even better with some tasty fillings. Here are some ideas for veggies, fruits, meats, and sauces to elevate your grilled cheese:
Veggies
Veggies can add a nice crunch and some extra flavour to your grilled cheese. Try adding some sautéed spinach, caramelised onions, or roasted red peppers. If you're feeling adventurous, throw in some chopped steamed broccoli or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick. For a healthier option, stuff your sandwich with arugula and grilled red peppers.
Fruits
Fruits can add a touch of sweetness to your grilled cheese. Try thinly sliced apples or pears, which pair classically well with cheese. For a more gourmet touch, use fig jam or slather on some fruit preserves, such as spicy tomato jam.
Meats
Meats can provide a protein boost to your grilled cheese. Bacon is a popular choice, adding a savoury crunch. You can also try ham, turkey, or pepperoni slices for a heartier sandwich.
Sauces
Sauces can enhance the flavour of your grilled cheese and make it even more indulgent. Try a cheese sauce, bacon aioli, or spicy chilli sauce. If you're a fan of condiments, go for ketchup or mustard. For a more unique option, spread some garlic Parmesan butter on the outside of the bread before grilling.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular side dishes to serve with grilled cheese include fries, soups (especially tomato soup), salads, and dips.
Some popular ingredients to add to a grilled cheese sandwich include vegetables (such as tomatoes, onions, spinach, or peppers), fruits (such as apples or pears), meats (such as bacon or ham), and different types of cheese (such as cheddar, gouda, gruyere, or raclette).
To achieve a crispy, golden exterior and a gooey, melty, cheesy middle, it is recommended to cook grilled cheese sandwiches on low heat with plenty of butter and a lid on top to trap the heat.
