Grilled cheese: the ultimate comfort food. But at times, it can feel a bit juvenile or simple.
What if there were easy, delicious ways to make your grilled cheese more decadent? Here are seven ideas for ingredients and methods to use that do precisely that.
Improve Your Cheese Game
Sure, classic, plastic-wrapped American cheese slices are the traditional choice. We’d never judge anyone for it. But, have you ever tried grilled cheese with Gruyère, Brie, or Fontina? These gourmet cheeses melt beautifully, adding a rich, complex flavor to your sandwich. They might be more expensive, but they’re absolutely worth it!
Mix Savory With Sweet
Adding a hint of sweetness is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to elevate your grilled cheese. The sweetness of demerara sugar and hot honey contrasts with savory cheeses.
It creates a balanced, sophisticated flavor. And the heat from hot honey adds even more of a unique flavor profile. Some fruits, like pears, have a light, floral sweetness. It tastes great with certain cheeses in grilled cheese, like brie.
Dapple With Fresh Herbs
Herbs can add an aromatic freshness to your grilled cheese that is hard to beat. Consider adding fresh basil leaves between the cheese slices. Or, sprinkle in some chopped rosemary or thyme. You can even use an herb-laden cheese, like herbed goat cheese, as the gooey center.
Try Including Protein
Adding a savory protein can not only enhance the flavor of your grilled cheese but also make it more satisfying. Think about layering thin slices of prosciutto, crispy bacon, or even a handful of shredded chicken into your sandwich. The saltiness and texture of the meat can provide a delightful contrast to the smooth, melty cheese.
Use Better Bread
The bread you choose is just as important as the cheese when crafting the perfect grilled cheese. Why stick to plain white bread when you could be using a crusty ciabatta, tangy sourdough, or even a hearty multigrain loaf?
Artisanal breads bring unique flavors and textures and add a level of sophistication to your sandwich. Oh, and don’t forget to treat your bread right, ensuring it has enough fat (butter or mayo) to get it crisped to perfection.
Smear a Flavorful Sauce
A flavorful sauce can be the perfect finishing touch for your elegant grilled cheese. How about a drizzle of balsamic reduction, a swipe of spicy mustard, or a spoonful of tangy barbecue sauce?
These sauces can complement the flavors of your cheese and bread, adding depth and complexity to each bite. Don’t shy away from spreads, either; apricot jam or an herb aioli can bring an otherwise bland grilled cheese to life.
Get Even Crunchier
Texture is vital to any great dish, and your grilled cheese is no exception. Adding a crunchy element can enhance the eating experience. Consider incorporating crispy fried shallots or even a handful of crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans.
These additions provide a satisfying crunch. It contrasts perfectly with the smooth, melted cheese.
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