Frederic Melton
Grilled cheese is a hot sandwich made by heating slices of cheese between slices of bread with a cooking fat such as butter or mayonnaise. The sandwich is usually made in a pan, griddle, or sandwich toaster until the bread browns and the cheese melts. The type of bread and cheese used can vary according to taste, but the bread must be sturdy enough to handle the heat and the cheese must be melty. Common additions to grilled cheese include vegetables, sauces, and spices.
Which Wich Grilled Cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bread | Sourdough, white bread, brioche, ciabatta, or any sturdy bread |
| Butter | Salted or unsalted |
| Cheese | Cheddar, American, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, Swiss, or any melty cheese |
| Cooking Method | Pan-fried, sandwich toaster, or sandwich press |
| Sides | Tomato-based soups, tomato soup, or pickles |
| Toppings | Mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, jalapeño, onion, spinach, broccoli, roasted tomatoes, or fruit |
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What You'll Learn
Bread options: Sourdough, white, or brioche
When it comes to bread options for a grilled cheese sandwich, you have a lot of flexibility. You can use any type of bread you like, but it's important to ensure that it's sturdy enough to handle the heat and not too thick, so the sandwich gets crispy.
Sourdough is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. Its tangy flavour adds a nice contrast to the rich, melted cheese. It also pairs well with butter or mayonnaise, which are commonly spread on the outside of the bread for additional flavour and texture. Sourdough's sturdiness makes it ideal for holding up to the heat without becoming too soggy or falling apart.
White bread is another classic option for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is a versatile choice that can be used with various cheeses and fillings. White bread is easily accessible and tends to be softer, making it a good option for those who prefer a more delicate texture.
Brioche is a less traditional but equally delicious option for grilled cheese sandwiches. It adds a rich, buttery flavour and a soft, fluffy texture to the sandwich. Brioche is denser than some other types of bread, so it can stand up to the heat without becoming soggy. It's a good choice for those who want a more indulgent grilled cheese experience.
No matter which type of bread you choose, the key to a perfect grilled cheese sandwich is to use plenty of butter or mayonnaise to achieve a crispy, golden exterior. The bread should be lightly browned and toasted to perfection, creating a delightful contrast with the melted cheese.
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Butter or mayonnaise
The classic grilled cheese sandwich is made with butter. However, some people prefer to use mayonnaise, which can yield a nice texture and a tangier flavor.
Butter
Butter is the traditional choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is easy to spread and helps to create a crispy, golden, buttery crust. It also complements the cheese, as it has most of the same ingredients. Some people add a light sprinkle of salt to their butter.
Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise is a more modern alternative to butter. It is more convenient to use than butter and can create a nice, crispy exterior. It can add a tangy flavor to the sandwich. However, some people don't like the taste of mayonnaise in their grilled cheese sandwiches.
A Combination of Both
Some people use a combination of butter and mayonnaise on the outside of their grilled cheese sandwiches. This combination may bring the best of both worlds.
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Cheese options: Cheddar, American, or mozzarella
When it comes to grilled cheese, the cheese you choose can make all the difference. While you can use any type of cheese, the most popular options are cheddar, American, or mozzarella. Each has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so here's a closer look at each option.
Cheddar cheese is a hard, natural cheese with a sharp, crumbly texture and a colour that ranges from white to pale yellow to dark orange. It has a stronger flavour than American cheese, and it doesn't melt as easily. Cheddar is traditionally made with cow's milk and matured for several months, giving it a longer shelf life than American cheese. It's a versatile cheese that can be used in a wide variety of recipes, and it's the most popular cheese in the UK and the second most popular in the US. When using cheddar for a grilled cheese sandwich, you can choose between mild, sharp, or a blend of both.
American cheese, on the other hand, is a processed cheese product made by blending at least two cheeses, commonly cheddar and Colby, with cream or milk and other ingredients. It has a smooth, creamy texture, a mild flavour, and a long shelf life. American cheese melts easily, making it a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni, and cheese dips. It's also commonly used in the US on hamburgers. While it may lack some flavour, American cheese gives you that classic, nostalgic cheese pull that many people love.
Mozzarella is a mild-flavoured cheese known for its excellent melting qualities and stretchy texture. It has a non-greasy melt and pairs well with a more flavourful cheese, like vintage cheddar or Gruyere. Mozzarella has fewer calories and less fat, including saturated fat, than cheddar, making it a better option for those watching their calorie intake or heart health. It still offers a good amount of protein and is rich in vitamins, although it has less vitamin A than cheddar.
In conclusion, when choosing between cheddar, American, or mozzarella for your grilled cheese, consider your personal preferences for taste, texture, and health benefits. Cheddar offers a sharper flavour and more protein, American gives you that classic cheese pull, and mozzarella provides a stretchy, non-greasy melt with fewer calories and fat. You can also get creative and combine two types of cheese, such as mozzarella with vintage cheddar, to get the best of both worlds.
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Add-ins: Tomatoes, onions, or spinach
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a delicious and easy meal to make, and they can be made even better with the addition of a few simple ingredients. Tomatoes, onions, and spinach are all great options to include in a grilled cheese sandwich, adding extra flavour and nutrition to this classic dish.
Tomatoes
Grilled cheese with tomatoes is a tasty variation on the classic. To make this sandwich, start by slicing 3 large beefsteak tomatoes in half and removing the stem ends. Brush the tomatoes with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt, Italian seasoning, granulated garlic, and smoked paprika. Mix together grated Parmesan and cheddar cheese, or another favourite cheese, and sprinkle over the cut side of the tomatoes. Place the tomatoes on a covered grill for 10-15 minutes, or bake in the oven at 425 degrees for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted. Top with fresh basil for an extra flavour boost.
Onions
French onion grilled cheese is a delicious and savoury variation on the classic sandwich. To make this sandwich, start by caramelizing onions in a skillet with butter. This will take about 30 minutes, or you can use a slow cooker for added convenience. For the sandwich, layer grated Gruyère cheese and warm caramelized onions, stirring them together before assembling to ensure an even melt. Add a splash of sherry or vinegar to balance the flavours. Cook the sandwich in a skillet with butter until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Spinach
For a healthy twist on the classic grilled cheese, try adding spinach. To make this sandwich, heat a large skillet over medium heat and divide olive oil over the outside of each slice of bread. Spread pesto sauce on the inside of four slices of bread and Tabasco on the other four slices. Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the spinach, followed by the other slice of bread. Cook the sandwich in the skillet until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
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Sides: Tomato soup
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a delicious comfort food, especially when paired with a side of tomato soup. This classic combination is a perfect match, with the warm and crispy sandwich providing a satisfying contrast to the creamy and tangy soup. Here are some tips to elevate your grilled cheese and tomato soup experience:
Tomato Soup Recommendations:
- When choosing a tomato soup to pair with your grilled cheese, opt for a recipe that is rich and creamy. A smooth and velvety texture will balance out the crunch of the grilled cheese sandwich.
- Consider adding some spices or herbs to your tomato soup to enhance its flavour. A touch of basil, oregano, or thyme can add depth and complexity to the soup, complementing the grilled cheese perfectly.
- If you're feeling creative, blend in some roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to your tomato soup for an extra burst of flavour. This will not only add sweetness but also give the soup a more robust texture.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of tomatoes in your soup. Try using ripe, juicy heirloom tomatoes or even cherry tomatoes for a slightly sweeter taste.
- For a more indulgent option, add a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top of your tomato soup. This will enhance the creaminess and take your soup to the next level.
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Pairing:
- When pairing your grilled cheese with tomato soup, consider dipping the sandwich into the soup. This classic combination is beloved for a reason—the warm, crispy sandwich pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Experiment with different types of grilled cheese sandwiches to find your perfect match. A traditional grilled cheese with cheddar or American cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to explore variations with different cheeses, breads, and added ingredients.
- To elevate your dipping experience, cut your grilled cheese sandwich into strips or smaller triangles. This not only makes dipping easier but also creates more surface area for the soup to cling to, enhancing the flavours.
- Don't be afraid to mix and match flavours. Try a grilled cheese with added tomatoes, spinach, or onions, which can complement the tomato soup and create a harmonious blend of flavours.
- For a more indulgent experience, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs or spices on top of your grilled cheese before dipping. This adds a new dimension of flavour to the sandwich and enhances the overall taste sensation.
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Frequently asked questions
A grilled cheese sandwich is a hot sandwich made by heating slices of cheese between slices of bread. The bread is usually buttered or spread with mayonnaise to add flavour and texture.
Any bread works for a grilled cheese sandwich, but it is important to ensure that the slices are not too thick. Sourdough, white bread, and brioche are popular choices.
A grilled cheese sandwich is only as good as the cheese used. Cheeses that melt well, such as American, cheddar, pepper jack, Havarti, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack are good choices.
To make a grilled cheese sandwich, butter one side of a slice of bread and place it butter-side down in a hot skillet. Add cheese, then place another slice of bread on top, buttered-side up. Cook until the bottom slice is lightly browned, then flip and continue cooking until the cheese is melted.
Yes, you can add other ingredients such as peppers, tomatoes, onions, spinach, broccoli, or fruit like apples. You can also experiment with different sauces and spreads like mustard, pesto, or fig jam.
