Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food loved by people of all ages across the world. While the simplicity of bread and cheese is part of what makes grilled cheese so appealing, the type of cheese you choose can make all the difference in terms of flavour and texture. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which cheese is best for your grilled cheese sandwich. From creamy and mild to sharp and tangy, there are countless types of cheese that can be used to create the perfect grilled cheese. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best cheeses for grilled cheese sandwiches and explore the unique characteristics that make them stand out. Whether you prefer classic grilled cheese or like to experiment with different flavours, this guide will help you create the ultimate cheesy sandwich.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is one of the most popular choices for making a grilled cheese sandwich, and for good reason. It has a rich, creamy flavour that pairs well with many types of bread and other ingredients. The savoury and slightly sharp taste complement the buttery, crispy bread in a grilled cheese sandwich. The flavour of cheddar cheese can range from mild to sharp, allowing you to choose the level of intensity that you prefer in your sandwich. Cheddar cheese is a versatile cheese that melts smoothly and evenly. It has a high-fat content, which means that it melts quickly and easily without becoming greasy or separating. This is important when making a grilled cheese sandwich, as you might want the cheese to melt and coat the bread evenly.
Gouda Cheese
Gouda cheese is an excellent choice for making a grilled cheese sandwich due to its distinct flavour and melting properties. This semi-hard cheese originated in the Netherlands and has become a popular cheese all around the world. The cheese is named after the Dutch city of Gouda, where it was traditionally produced and traded.
One of the main reasons gouda cheese is great for grilled cheese sandwiches is that it has a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet taste that is distinct from other cheeses. It pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including ham, bacon, tomatoes, and caramelised onions. In addition to its flavour, gouda cheese also has a semi-hard texture that melts smoothly. This makes it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches, as the cheese melts evenly and maintains its consistency.
Pepper Jack
Pepper jack cheese is an exceptional choice for making grilled cheese sandwiches because of its distinctive taste and texture. This cheese, a blend of Monterey Jack cheese and spicy peppers like jalapeños, is originally from the United States and has become a popular cheese for many people around the world. The cheese's combination of Monterey Jack cheese and spicy peppers creates a unique and slightly spicy taste that provides an exciting kick to a grilled cheese sandwich. This flavour also complements other sandwich ingredients like meats, vegetables, and fruits.
Moreover, pepper jack cheese has an exceptional texture that makes it an excellent option for grilled cheese. Its semi-soft consistency melts easily, creating a gooey and creamy texture that brings a delightful richness to the sandwich. Its melting properties ensure that the sandwich is not only tasty but also has an appealing texture that is both satisfying and comforting.
Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese has a unique taste, characterised by its nutty, sweet, and slightly sharp flavour that comes from the ageing process. Swiss cheese is an excellent choice for grilled cheese sandwiches for several reasons.
One of the main advantages of Swiss cheese is its reliability. When heated, Swiss cheese melts smoothly and evenly, creating a gooey and creamy texture that is perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches. The cheese also adds a subtle sweetness and nutty flavour that enhances the taste of the sandwich, making it more satisfying and enjoyable to eat. Moreover, Swiss cheese is a great option for people who are health-conscious. This cheese is low in calories and fat, making it an ideal choice for those who want to maintain a healthy diet while still enjoying a tasty grilled cheese sandwich. Swiss cheese is also an excellent source of protein and calcium, essential nutrients that support healthy bones, muscles, and overall health.
Provolone Cheese
Provolone cheese is a delectable option for those who want to add a bit of sharpness to their grilled cheese sandwich. This cheese has a sharp and tangy taste that adds a unique depth of flavour to the sandwich. Provolone cheese's flavour is especially pronounced when melted, which is why it is such a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches.
Provolone cheese is also an excellent choice for those who like their cheese to be stretchy and gooey. This cheese melts beautifully, creating a luscious and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the crispiness of the bread. The cheese also holds its shape well when melted, ensuring that it does not become too runny or messy. This cheese pairs well with a variety of ingredients, such as ham, turkey, tomatoes, and basil, adding a new dimension of flavour to your sandwich. It is also great on its own, as the sharp and tangy flavour of provolone cheese can stand on its own and is perfect for those who enjoy a more robust taste.