Grilled cheese
Grilled cheese has been around for centuries in one form or another. The earliest known recipe comes from the 4th century AD, when Roman cookbook author Apicius included a recipe for fried bread with cheese in his book.
The dish remained popular in Europe for centuries, and eventually made its way to America. The first known recipe for what we now know as grilled cheese appeared in the 1927 edition of the Boston Cooking School Cook Book. The recipe called for American cheese and butter, and instructed the reader to grill the sandwich on both sides until golden brown.
Grilled cheese became increasingly popular in the United States in the 1920s and 1930s, as mass-produced American cheese became more widely available. The dish gained even more popularity during World War II, when it was a quick and easy meal that could be made with limited ingredients.
Advice
Making a delicious grilled cheese sandwich is easy! Start with good quality bread and cheese, and use a good non-stick pan or griddle. Butter each slice of bread on one side and place the slices butter side down in the pan. Place the cheese between the slices of bread. Cook the sandwich over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown. Flip the sandwich over and cook on the other side until golden brown. Enjoy your warm and delicious grilled cheese sandwich!
Questions
What is the secret to grilled cheese?
The secret to making a great grilled cheese is to use the right cheese and the right bread, and to make sure the butter is evenly spread over both sides of the sandwich. Additionally, using a pan or griddle with plenty of low heat will help to ensure the cheese melts evenly without burning the bread.
What can I put in a grilled cheese?
You can put any combination of cheese, vegetables, and proteins in a grilled cheese. Some popular options include cheddar cheese, tomato slices, spinach, bacon, ham, and mushrooms.
Is mayo or butter better for grilled cheese?
It depends on personal preference. Some people prefer the creaminess of mayo while others enjoy the salty flavor of butter.
How do you jazz up your grilled cheese?
1. Add some caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor. 2. Sprinkle in some herbs like thyme or oregano to add a bright flavor. 3. Add a layer of avocado or tomato slices for a fresh contrast to the gooey cheese. 4. Top with a few slices of bacon for a salty, smoky flavor. 5. Add some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. 6. Mix in some pesto for a unique and flavorful twist. 7. Try adding a different type of cheese for a more complex flavor. 8. Toppings like ham, pickles, and mushrooms can add a unique flavor. 9. Top with a fried egg for a breakfast sandwich. 10. Stuff your sandwich with some spinach for a healthy and flavorful kick.
What are 2 important things to remember when making a grilled cheese?
1. Use the right cheese. Choose a good melting cheese like cheddar, Swiss, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Gouda for optimal results. 2. Use the right bread. Opt for a bread that will hold up to the grilling process, such as a good quality white or wheat bread. Avoid using bread that is too soft or will become soggy quickly.
What kind of cheese is best for grilled cheese?
The best type of cheese for grilled cheese is a high-quality, meltable cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, Gruyère, Gouda, provolone, or Monterey Jack.
Jump to: Ingredient Breakdown Insights
Recipes
French Onion Grilled Cheese
- salt
- yellow
- sherry
- gruyère cheese
- butter
- bread
Kimchi Grilled Cheese
- mayonnaise
- mozzarella cheese
- kimchi
- bread
Best-Ever Grilled Cheese
- black pepper
- tomato soup
- butter
- american cheese
- mayonnaise
- white bread
Grilled Cheese With Apples and Apple Butter
- salt
- rosemary
- granny smith apple
- shallot
- apple butter
- cheddar cheese
- butter
- white bread
Roasted Pepper and Goat Cheese Sandwich
- goat cheese
- herb
- red pepper
- wheat country bread
Grilled Cheese, Diner Style
- mayonnaise
- american cheese
- bread
Grilled Cheese
- dijon mustard
- green apple
- white bread
- cheddar cheese
- bacon
- butter
Rainbow Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- neon coloring
- butter
- white cheese
- bread
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
- black pepper
- salt
- garlic
- parsley
- cheddar cheese
- butter
- white bread
Breakfast Grilled Cheese with soft Scrambled Eggs and Pesto
- basil pesto
- havarti cheese
- cheddar cheese
- chive
- butter
- egg
- sourdough bread
- red pepper flake
- honey
- salt
Mushroom and Cheese Sandwich Recipe
- mushroom
- bread loaf
- onion
- cheddar cheese
- olive oil
- butter
- salt
Grilled Cheese with Spinach and Pancetta
- vegetable oil spray
- vegetable
- salt
- butter
- white bread
- cheddar cheese
- monterey jack cheese
- spinach
- pancetta
Croque-Monsieur: Classic French Grilled Cheese
- clarified butter
- gruyère cheese
- white bread
- dijon mustard
Roasted Garlic Caprese Grilled Cheese
- basil
- mozzarella cheese
- basil pesto
- parmesan cheese
- olive oil
- fig preserve
- tomato
- butter
- sourdough bread
- garlic
- salt
- red pepper flake
Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese
- mayonnaise
- dijon mustard
- brown sugar
- granny smith apple
- onion
- bacon
- wheat bread
- cheddar cheese
- butter
Cream Cheese Sandwiches With Dates, Pecans and Rosemary
- salt
- date
- cream cheese
- olive oil
- lime
- red pepper flake
- rosemary
- pecan
- light
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
- parsley
- garlic
- cheddar cheese
- bread
- butter
- soup
- pepper
- salt
Marinated Vegetable and Cheese Sandwich with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
- arugula
- basil
- thyme
- loaf ciabatta bread
- oil tomatoes oil
- tomato pesto
- parmesan cheese
- red pepper flake
- balsamic vinegar
- pine nut
- bell pepper
- garlic
- zucchini
- olive oil
- provolone cheese
- goat cheese
- salt
- salt
- zest
Grilled Cheese with Everything Bagel Seasoning
- everything bagel seasoning
- butter
- caper
- sesame seed
- garlic
- onion
- cream cheese
- salt
- mozzarella cheese
- green onion
- poppy seed
- tomato
- wheat
- onion
Cranberry Grilled Cheese
- dijon mustard
- butter
- cheddar cheese
- cranberry
- white bread
Added-Value Grilled Cheese
- black pepper
- salt
- olive oil
- green onion
- pickled jalapeño
- mustard
- dijon mustard
- cheddar cheese
- mayonnaise
- bread
- american cheese
Everything Spice Grilled Cheese
- cheddar cheese
- parmesan cheese
- everything bagel spice
- havarti cheese
- butter
- bread
Best Grilled Cheese Ever
- butter
- onion
- provolone cheese
- dijon mustard
- mayonnaise
- white vinegar
- tomato
- poblano
- cheddar cheese
- rye bread
Steak and Cheese Sandwiches
- onion
- steak
- bell pepper
- mayonnaise
- cheddar cheese
- sub roll
- black pepper
- salt
Sweet Potato and Toasted Pecan Grilled Cheese
- chili powder
- green bean casserole french fried onion
- sweet potato
- pecan
- butter
- swiss cheese
- white bread
My Favorite Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- butter
- wheat bread
- american cheese
- carrot
- grape tomato
- green salad
Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Red Onion Jam
- onion
- loaf italian bread
- taleggio
- red wine vinegar
- gorgonzola
- brown sugar
- olive oil
- water
- butter
Breakfast Grilled Cheese With Avocado and Sriracha
- egg
- avocado
- sriracha
- bread
- butter
- gouda cheese
The Ultimate Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- tomato
- mustard
- bacon
- pickle
- butter
- cheddar cheese
- bread
Grilled Cheese With Mayo
- mayonnaise
- bread
- cheese
- salt
Bacon, Pear, Honey, and Brie Skillet Grilled Cheese
- pear
- bread
- honey
- butter
- bacon
- brie
Fried Bologna and Cheese Sandwich
- american cheese
- canola oil
- mayonnaise
- bologna
- white bread
Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup
- salt
- canola oil
- cheddar cheese
- red pepper flake
- onion
- tomato
- garlic
- vegetable broth
- celery
- butter
- deli american cheese
- wheat bread
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- ripened tomato
- smoked bacon
Inside-Out Kimchi Grilled Cheese
- cheddar cheese
- kimchi
- butter
- gochujang
- white bread
Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich With Buttermilk Ranch + Blue Cheese
- cayenne pepper
- celery salt
- garlic powder
- blue cheese
- buffalo sauce
- ranch dressing
- white vinegar
- chicken finger
- frank red hot sauce
- cheddar cheese
- butter
- chive
- worcestershire sauce
- butter
- french bread
Vegan Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- olive oil
- vegan cheese
- sourdough bread
Fancy Grilled Cheese with a Fried Egg
- salt
- truffle honey
- butter
- egg
- raclette
- cranberry walnut
Bacon, Egg and Maple Grilled Cheese
- brioche bread
- maple syrup
- egg
- bacon
- butter
- cheddar cheese
Salami and Pickle Grilled Cheese
- gruyère cheese
- salami
- butter
- dill pickle
- sourdough bread
Grilled Cheese with Apple and Bacon
- salt
- chicken stock
- cherry tomato
- basil
- olive oil
- bay leaf
- onion
- tomato
- heavy cream
- butter
- garlic
Apple Butter, Pepper Jack and Croissant Grilled Cheese
- croissant
- pepper jack cheese
- apple butter
Opened Faced Tomato and Goat Cheese Sandwich with Hot Bacon Vinaigrette
- red pepper flake
- salt
- red wine vinegar
- basil
- dill
- lemon juice
- olive oil
- tomato
- bacon
- sourdough bread
- goat cheese
- salt
Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese
- garlic powder
- butter
- jalapeño
- bacon
- pepper jack cheese
- white bread
Grilled Cheese with Chipotle Mayo and Bacon
- salt
- potato chip
- sweet pickle
- honey
- chipotle
- mayonnaise
- bacon
- white bread
- american cheese
Buttery Brioche Grilled Cheese
- salt
- prosecco
- parsley
- dijon mustard
- garlic
- brioche bread
- gruyère cheese
- cheddar cheese
- robiola cheese
- butter
Grilled Cheddar Cheese Sandwich
- salt
- cheddar cheese
- smoked paprika
- mayonnaise
- cream cheese
- butter
- sourdough bread
Apple and Fontina Grilled Cheese
- salt
- sweet tart apple
- butter
- tarragon dijon mustard
- spinach
- cocktail pumpernickel bread
- fontina cheese
French Toast Grilled Cheese
- ham
- raspberry jam
- dijon mustard
- black pepper
- sugar
- milk
- onion powder
- salt
- butter
- honey mustard
- egg
- brioche bread
- swiss cheese
Brie, Fig Jam, and Poundcake Grilled Cheese With Rosemary Butter
- butter
- fig spread
- rosemary
- cake
- brie
Fried Chicken and Waffle Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- honey
- hot sauce
- waffle
- butter
- american cheese
Best Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- onebun
- fontina cheese
- chicken
- parmesan cheese
- butter
Kennebunkport Lobster Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- maine lobster
- chili paste
- wisconsin mascarpone cheese
- arugula
- tomato
- green onion
- white bread
- wisconsin provolone cheese
- butter
Grilled Cheese With Bacon and Thousand Island Dressing
- cotswold cheese
- butter
- thousand island dressing
- sourdough bread
- maple glazed bacon
Stuffing Waffle Grilled Cheese With Thanksgiving Leftovers
- cranberry jelly
- stuffing
- muenster
- potato
Cheddar & Chutney Grilled Cheese
- white bread
- butter
- mango chutney
- sharp white cheddar
French Toast Grilled Cheese With Mascarpone, Nutella, and Strawberries
- cinnamon
- vanilla extract
- butter
- strawberry
- egg
- whipped cream
- challah bread
- chocolate hazelnut spread
- mascarpone cheese
- milk
Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- apple
- butter
- sourdough bread
- cheddar cheese
Beet and Chickpea Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- chickpea
- spinach
- beet
- za atar
- cumin
- garlic powder
- bread crumb
- parsley
- tahini
- olive oil
- feta
- bread
- black pepper
- salt
Grilled Cheese with Peak Tomatoes
- salt
- sharp white cheddar
- shallot
- mayonnaise
- tomato
- sourdough bread
BLT Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- butter
- lacy swiss
- egg bread
- tomato
- cheddar cheese
- bacon
Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions
- sugar
- italian bread
- canola oil
- sherry vinegar
- onion
- butter
- gruyère cheese
Breakfast Grilled Cheese
- cinnamon
- butter
- jam
- whipped cream cheese
- cottage cheese
- confectioners sugar
- waffle
Breakfast Grilled Cheese
- cinnamon
- butter
- jam
- whipped cream cheese
- cottage cheese
- confectioners sugar
- waffle
Meatball Smash Grilled Cheese
- garlic
- pasta sauce
- pesto
- parmesan cheese
- spaghetti
- bread
- butter
- mozzarella cheese
- meatball
Big Popper Hot Buffalo Chicken and Bacon Grilled Cheese.
- buffalo sauce
- self rising flour
- chicken breast tender
- garlic
- cilantro
- egg
- blue cheese
- cheddar cheese
- green onion
- bread
- cream cheese
- jalapeño
- bacon
- butter
- canola oil
- ranch
Grilled Cheese With Dates and Prosciutto
- date
- basil
- butter
- bread
- monterey jack cheese
- prosciutto
Italian Grilled Cheese
- marinara pasta sauce
- basil
- bread
- cheddar cheese
- mozzarella cheese
- butter
Air Fryer Grilled Cheese
- butter
- mayonnaise
- cheddar cheese
- sourdough bread
Scrambled Egg + Tomato Grilled Cheese
- chive
- egg
- texas toast
- butter
- alpha tolman cheese
- tomato
- garlic habanero hot sauce
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- sourdough bread
- monterey jack cheese
- ripened tomato
- butter
- ham
- smoked bacon
Ham and Cheese Sandwiches with Bacon, Pineapple Caramelized Onions + Jerk BBQ Sauce.
- bbq sauce
- pineapple
- soy sauce
- poppy seed
- worcestershire
- jalapeño
- onion
- curry powder
- roll
- ham
- swiss cheese
- pineapple juice
- cinnamon
- dijon mustard
- onion
- fried bacon
- butter
Cheddar & Chutney Grilled Cheese From Ina Garten
- mango chutney
- white bread
- butter
- sharp white cheddar
Strawberry Bruschetta Grilled Cheese
- olive oil
- balsamic vinegar
- lemon zest
- butter
- basil
- strawberry
- brie cheese
- sourdough baguette
- salt
Avocado and Chorizo Breakfast Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- butter
- avocado
- chorizo
- egg
- muenster cheese
- white bread
- cheddar cheese
- cheddar cheese
- hot sauce
Grilled Pimiento Cheese Sandwiches with Apple–Cherry Chutney
- salt
- sambal oelek
- granny smith apple
- pimiento cheese spread
- ancho chili powder
- sour cherry
- mayonnaise
- onion
- olive oil
- tomato
- wheat
Air Fryer Grilled Cheese
- cheddar cheese
- white bread
- cheese
- butter
Gourmet Grilled Cheese
- coriander
- cumin
- honey
- salt
- pepita
- olive oil
- lemon juice
- garlic
- green anaheim pepper
- havarti cheese
- cilantro
- sourdough bread
- spinach
- oil
- black pepper
Zucchini Grilled Cheese
- black pepper
- onion powder
- salt
- parmesan cheese
- almond flour
- mozzarella cheese
- egg
- zucchini
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Bacon
- butter
- monterey jack cheese
- bacon
- cheddar cheese
- white bread
Ingredient Breakdown
Insights
Correlated with Higher Ratings
- white bread
- sourdough bread
- olive oil
- onion
- parmesan cheese
- bread
Staple Ingredients
- butter 63%
- salt 27%
- cheddar cheese 23%
Common Ingredients
- white bread 17%
- bread 16%
- olive oil 15%
- onion 12%
- sourdough bread 12%
- garlic 11%
- tomato 11%
- bacon 11%
- mayonnaise 11%
Usual Ingredients
- dijon mustard 8%
- black pepper 7%
- parmesan cheese 7%
- avocado 6%
- egg 6%
- gruyère cheese 6%
- american cheese 6%
- basil 6%
- mozzarella cheese 5%
- red pepper flake 5%
- spinach 5%
- cream cheese 4%
- garlic powder 4%
- havarti cheese 4%
- honey 4% See More
- jalapeño 4%
- thyme 4%
- 3%
- brie 3%
- canola oil 3%
- goat cheese 3%
- green onion 3%
- monterey jack cheese 3%
- parsley 3%
- pepper jack cheese 3%
- provolone cheese 3%
- swiss cheese 3%
- wheat bread 3%