The humble grilled cheese sandwich – a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. But why settle for just any old grilled cheese when you can take it to the next level with some creative twists and flavor combinations? In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of cheesy goodness with 18 irresistible recipes that will elevate your grilled cheese game.
From classics like cheddar and gouda to more adventurous combinations featuring bacon, sriracha, and even buffalo chicken, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a cheese lover, a foodie, or just looking for a quick and easy meal solution, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So grab some bread, butter, and cheese (and maybe a few other ingredients too), and let’s get started on our grilled cheese adventure!
Classic Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Classic Cheddar Grilled Cheese Recipe
Savor the simplicity of a perfectly toasted grilled cheese sandwich filled with melted cheddar goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread (or your preferred bread type)
– 1-2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the bread.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Bacon and Gouda Grilled Cheese
Bacon and Gouda Grilled Cheese Recipe: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe adds a smoky, savory twist to the classic grilled cheese sandwich by incorporating crispy bacon and melted Gouda cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 4 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup of Gouda cheese, sliced
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Cook the bacon slices until crispy, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the grill.
5. Top with a slice of Gouda cheese and 2-3 pieces of cooked bacon.
6. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-6 minutes total
Tomato Basil Mozzarella Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this flavorful twist that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the creaminess of mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– 1 large tomato, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a tomato slice, some basil leaves, and a mozzarella slice.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Avocado and Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this creamy and spicy twist! This Avocado and Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese is a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 slices of Pepper Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a slice of Pepper Jack cheese, a spoonful of mashed avocado, and another slice of cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this spicy twist that combines the creaminess of melted cheese with the bold flavor of sriracha.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheddar and mozzarella cheese, then drizzle with sriracha sauce.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 minutes total
French Onion Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted Swiss cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (preferably baguette or sourdough)
– 1/4 cup of grated Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup of caramelized onions (see note)
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Note: To caramelize onions, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over low heat. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced, and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark golden brown.
Pesto and Provolone Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this creamy and flavorful combination of pesto and provolone. The tangy sauce and melted cheese create a perfect harmony that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 2 slices provolone cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto on the unbuttered side of one bread slice.
4. Place one slice of provolone cheese on top of the pesto.
5. Place the other bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and melted cheddar. This spicy twist is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to add some excitement to their lunch or dinner routine.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast tossed in buffalo wing sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, or pickles for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with shredded cheese, buffalo chicken mixture, and another slice of bread (butter-side up).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Grilled Cheese
Take your grilled cheese game to the next level with this comforting twist on a classic. Creamy macaroni and cheese fills the center of a buttery, crispy sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 slices white bread
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup macaroni and cheese filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of macaroni and cheese filling on top of the bread.
5. Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Swiss Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions and melted Swiss cheese!
Caramelized Onion and Swiss Grilled Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups grated Swiss cheese
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
2. In a large bowl, melt butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on the griddle.
5. Top with a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a spoonful of caramelized onions.
6. Place another slice of bread, butter-side up, on top.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying sandwich. The combination of melted mozzarella, crispy parmesan, and rich garlic butter will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice with the softened butter.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-6 minutes per sandwich.
Cream Cheese and Jalapeño Grilled Cheese
Take your grilled cheese game to the next level with this creamy and spicy twist. Cream Cheese and Jalapeño Grilled Cheese is a perfect combination of flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1-2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread the softened cream cheese on the unbuttered side of one bread slice.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, and the other bread slice (buttered side up).
5. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the rich flavors of BBQ pulled pork, melted cheddar, and crispy bread. This sweet and savory sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce
– 1 cup of pulled pork (cooled)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Gruyère and Mushroom Grilled Cheese
This indulgent twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich combines the creamy richness of Gruyère with the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms. The result is a decadent, savory delight that’s sure to become your new favorite comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), chopped
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with Gruyère cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and another bread slice (butter-side up).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per side
Sundried Tomato and Feta Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the combination of creamy feta, tangy sundried tomatoes, and crispy bread. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup of sundried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with feta cheese, sundried tomatoes, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Ham and Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the addition of salty ham and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, divided
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced ham
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a slice of ham, a slice of cheddar cheese, and another bread slice, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the creamy richness of Brie and the crunch of fresh apple. This sweet and savory combination is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1 wheel of Brie cheese, sliced
– 1/2 apple, sliced into thin wedges
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of Brie cheese, followed by a few apple wedges.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Cheese
Elevate the humble grilled cheese to new heights with this creamy, savory, and indulgent spin. By combining spinach, artichokes, and melted cheese between two slices of bread, you’ll create a flavor profile that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread half of the cheese, followed by the spinach, artichoke hearts, and remaining cheese.
4. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown; flip and cook an additional 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to melt into cheesy bliss with these 18 irresistible grilled cheese recipes! From classic combinations like cheddar and bacon, to bold flavors like sriracha and jalapeño, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some caramelized onions and Swiss cheese for a sweet and savory twist, or go all out with mac and cheese stuffed inside. Don’t forget about the unexpected pairings, like buffalo chicken and pulled pork – your taste buds will thank you! With this collection of creative grilled cheese recipes, you’ll never get tired of the same old sandwich.
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