10 Mouth-Watering Sides for Your Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food, but they can be even more delicious when paired with the right sides. Whether you’re looking for something simple and savory or something more creative and flavorful, there are plenty of options to choose from.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best side dishes to serve with grilled cheese sandwiches. We’ll also provide tips on how to make your grilled cheese sandwiches even more delicious. So whether you’re a grilled cheese novice or a seasoned pro, read on for some great ideas!
| Ingredient | Description | Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Bread | The bread is the foundation of a grilled cheese sandwich, and it’s important to choose one that will hold up well to the heat and the melted cheese. A sturdy white bread is a classic choice, but you can also use sourdough, whole wheat, or even a flavored bread like brioche or challah. | A simple buttered white bread is a classic pairing for a grilled cheese sandwich, but you can also experiment with different spreads, such as mayonnaise, pesto, or mustard. |
| Cheese | The cheese is the star of the show in a grilled cheese sandwich, and there are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing the perfect one. Some of the most popular cheeses for grilled cheese include American, cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone. | The type of cheese you choose will significantly impact the flavor of your grilled cheese sandwich. For a classic and gooey grilled cheese, American cheese is a great option. For something with a little more flavor, cheddar or mozzarella are good choices. If you’re looking for a grilled cheese with a bit of a kick, try using pepper jack or smoked gouda. |
| Spread | A spread is an optional addition to a grilled cheese sandwich, but it can add a lot of flavor and richness. Some popular spreads for grilled cheese include butter, mayonnaise, pesto, and mustard. | A spread can help to make your grilled cheese sandwich more flavorful and moist. Butter is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with different spreads, such as mayonnaise, pesto, or mustard. |
| Vegetables | Vegetables are a great way to add some nutrition and color to your grilled cheese sandwich. Some popular vegetables for grilled cheese include tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spinach. | Vegetables can add a lot of flavor and nutrition to your grilled cheese sandwich. Tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spinach are all great options. |
| Protein | Protein is an optional addition to a grilled cheese sandwich, but it can help to make the sandwich more filling and satisfying. Some popular proteins for grilled cheese include bacon, ham, and turkey. | Protein can help to make your grilled cheese sandwich more filling and satisfying. Bacon, ham, and turkey are all great options. |
| Sauce | A sauce is an optional addition to a grilled cheese sandwich, but it can add a lot of flavor and richness. Some popular sauces for grilled cheese include ketchup, marinara sauce, and barbecue sauce. | A sauce can help to make your grilled cheese sandwich more flavorful and moist. Ketchup, marinara sauce, and barbecue sauce are all great options. |
Bread
The type of bread you use for your grilled cheese sandwich can make a big difference in the final result. A good grilled cheese sandwich should have a crispy, golden brown crust and a soft, melty interior. The bread should be sturdy enough to hold up to the melted cheese and toasting, but not so thick that it becomes soggy.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing bread for your grilled cheese sandwich:
- Type of bread: There are many different types of bread that can be used for grilled cheese sandwiches, but some are better suited for this dish than others. For a classic grilled cheese sandwich, you’ll want to use a white bread that is not too thick. Some good options include sourdough bread, French bread, and Texas toast.
- Toasting: The bread should be toasted until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can toast the bread in a toaster oven, on a griddle, or in a frying pan.
- Spreads: You can add spreads to your grilled cheese sandwich to add flavor and moisture. Some popular spreads include butter, mayonnaise, and cream cheese.
Here are some specific breads that are perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches:
- White bread: White bread is the classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is soft, fluffy, and has a neutral flavor that allows the cheese to shine.
- Sourdough bread: Sourdough bread has a tangy flavor that pairs well with melted cheese. It is also a good choice for grilled cheese sandwiches because it is sturdy and holds up well to toasting.
- French bread: French bread is a long, thin loaf of bread that is perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches. It has a chewy texture and a slightly crispy crust.
- Texas toast: Texas toast is a thick slice of bread that is perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is toasted until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.
Cheese
The cheese is the star of the grilled cheese sandwich, so it’s important to choose a good quality cheese that will melt well and have a delicious flavor.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing cheese for your grilled cheese sandwich:
- Type of cheese: There are many different types of cheese that can be used for grilled cheese sandwiches, but some are better suited for this dish than others. For a classic grilled cheese sandwich, you’ll want to use a mild, melty cheese such as cheddar, American, or mozzarella.
- Melting point: The melting point of the cheese is important because it will affect how the cheese melts in the sandwich. A cheese with a low melting point will melt quickly and evenly, while a cheese with a high melting point will take longer to melt and may not melt completely.
- Flavor: The flavor of the cheese is also important because it will contribute to the overall flavor of the sandwich. Choose a cheese that you enjoy the flavor of and that will complement the other ingredients in the sandwich.
Here are some specific cheeses that are perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches:
- Cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is a mild, melty cheese that has a slightly sharp flavor.
- American cheese: American cheese is another popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is a mild, processed cheese that melts easily and has a creamy texture.
- Mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese is a good choice for grilled cheese sandwiches because it is a mild, melty cheese that has a slightly stringy texture.
- Gouda cheese: Gouda cheese is a Dutch cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a rich, nutty flavor and melts well.
- Gruyre cheese: Gruyre cheese is a Swiss cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a sharp, nutty flavor and melts well.
Melting the Cheese
The key to a good grilled cheese sandwich is melted cheese. The cheese should be melted evenly and should not be too gooey or too dry.
Here are a few tips for melting the cheese in your grilled cheese sandwich:
- Use a low heat: When melting the cheese, it is important to use a low heat so that the cheese does not burn.
- Cover the sandwich: Covering the sandwich will help to keep the cheese warm and will prevent it from drying out.
- Don’t overcook the sandwich: The sandwich should be cooked until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted, but it should not be overcooked. Overcooked grilled cheese sandwiches can become dry and tough.
Adding Other Ingredients to the Cheese
You can add other ingredients to the cheese in your grilled cheese sandwich to create a more flavorful and interesting dish.
Here are a few ideas for grilled cheese
Toppings
Grilled cheese is a simple sandwich, but it can be easily customized with a variety of toppings. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Vegetables:
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Onions
- Peppers
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Meats:
- Bacon
- Ham
- Turkey
- Roast beef
- Chicken
- Sauces:
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayo
- Barbecue sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Thousand Island dressing
You can also add other ingredients to your grilled cheese, such as cheese, nuts, or fruit. The possibilities are endless!
Here are some tips for choosing toppings for your grilled cheese:
- Consider the flavors of the cheese and bread. Some cheeses, such as cheddar and mozzarella, are mild and go well with a variety of toppings. Other cheeses, such as blue cheese and goat cheese, have stronger flavors and may pair better with specific toppings.
- Think about the texture of the toppings. Some toppings, such as tomatoes and lettuce, add a crunchy texture to the sandwich. Other toppings, such as bacon and ham, add a chewy texture.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are no rules when it comes to grilled cheese. Feel free to mix and match different toppings until you find a combination that you love.
Serving
Grilled cheese is a quick and easy meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Here are a few tips for serving grilled cheese:
- Serve it hot. Grilled cheese is best when it’s hot and fresh out of the pan.
- Cut it into triangles. Cutting the sandwich into triangles makes it easier to eat.
- Serve it with a side dish. Grilled cheese is a great way to use up leftover vegetables or meat. Some popular side dishes for grilled cheese include:
- Soup
- Salad
- Chips
- Fruit
Grilled cheese is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With so many different toppings and serving options, there’s a grilled cheese for everyone. So next time you’re craving a warm and delicious sandwich, don’t forget about grilled cheese!
What Goes Good With A Grilled Cheese?
- Q: What are some classic grilled cheese toppings?
A: Classic grilled cheese toppings include ham, tomato, and avocado. Other popular options include bacon, cheese, and onion; or peanut butter and jelly.
- Q: What are some non-traditional grilled cheese toppings?
A: There are endless possibilities for grilled cheese toppings! Some non-traditional options include:
- Grilled cheese with fruit: Try adding sliced apples, pears, or bananas to your grilled cheese.
- Grilled cheese with vegetables: Grilled cheese is a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Try adding roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or broccoli.
- Grilled cheese with meats: Grilled cheese is a great way to add protein to your meal. Try adding bacon, ham, or turkey to your grilled cheese.
- Grilled cheese with spreads: Spreads can add flavor and moisture to your grilled cheese. Try adding pesto, hummus, or guacamole to your grilled cheese.
- Grilled cheese with sauces: Sauces can add flavor and richness to your grilled cheese. Try adding marinara sauce, barbecue sauce, or cheese sauce to your grilled cheese.
- Q: What are some tips for making a grilled cheese sandwich?
A: Here are a few tips for making a grilled cheese sandwich:
- Use good quality bread. A fresh, crusty loaf of bread is essential for a delicious grilled cheese sandwich.
- Use plenty of butter. The key to a good grilled cheese sandwich is to use plenty of butter. This will help the bread to brown evenly and create a crispy crust.
- Cook over medium heat. Grilled cheese sandwiches are best cooked over medium heat. This will help to prevent the bread from burning.
- Flip often. To ensure that both sides of the bread are cooked evenly, flip the sandwich often.
- Serve immediately. Grilled cheese sandwiches are best served hot and fresh out of the pan.
- Q: What are some variations on the classic grilled cheese sandwich?
A: There are endless variations on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Here are a few ideas:
- French grilled cheese: This grilled cheese sandwich is made with Gruyre cheese and ham, and is topped with a bchamel sauce.
- Melt: This grilled cheese sandwich is made with American cheese, ham, and tomato, and is topped with a creamy melted cheese sauce.
- Grilled cheese with bacon: This grilled cheese sandwich is made with bacon, cheddar cheese, and tomato.
- Grilled cheese with avocado: This grilled cheese sandwich is made with avocado, cheddar cheese, and tomato.
- Grilled cheese with grilled vegetables: This grilled cheese sandwich is made with grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, carrots, or onions.
- Q: What are some side dishes that go well with grilled cheese?
A: Some side dishes that go well with grilled cheese include:
- Tomato soup
- French fries
- Salad
- Applesauce
- Chips
- Fruit
- Q: What are some drinks that go well with grilled cheese?
A: Some drinks that go well with grilled cheese include:
- Hot chocolate
- Milk
- Soda
- Beer
- Wine
- Q: What are some other questions about grilled cheese that you have?
A: Please feel free to ask any other questions you have about grilled cheese. I’m happy to help!
Grilled cheese is a classic comfort food that is loved by people of all ages. It is a simple dish to make, but it can be easily elevated with the addition of a few flavorful ingredients. In this blog post, we discussed some of the best things to serve with grilled cheese, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. We also provided some tips for making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy meal or a special treat, grilled cheese is sure to please. So next time you are in the mood for a grilled cheese sandwich, be sure to experiment with some of the different toppings and sides that we suggested. You might be surprised at how delicious grilled cheese can be!
Author Profile
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With over 30 years experience, Lucks Caterers is a second generation family owned and operated business. We are committed to maintaining our family tradition of outstanding quality, excellence and reliability.
Our European trained head chef develops beautiful and delicious foods to catch the eye and satisfy the palate. Lucks provides you with imaginative and affordable menu selections.
In 2024, we embarked on a new chapter in our journey as we expanded our horizons to share our wealth of knowledge and expertise with a broader audience. With a keen focus on event management and culinary arts, we launched an informative blog aimed at empowering individuals with the insights and inspiration they need to plan unforgettable events and elevate their culinary skills.
Thank you for considering Lucks Caterers as your partner in culinary excellence. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you and create unforgettable memories together.