Nothing screams “comfort food” as much as grilled cheese. The ooey-gooey cheese and buttery bread transports us back to our childhood, which is especially needed when we feel homesick. But every now and then, we need something to excite our taste buds whether it be something sweet or savory. Anyways, it’s time to spice up this childhood favorite and make it special ‘cause we deserve it after a hard week!
- Grilled Swiss and Fig Butter Sandwich
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Not all grilled cheeses have to be savory! This sweet twist on the classic is a fun way to change up your typical sandwich. Just assemble your grilled cheese as normal, spread on fig butter (preferably on both sides for a good distribution), and grill it. If you would like, you can also add cranberries for a burst of flavor.
- Grilled Cheese with Marinara
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To me, a grilled cheese dipped in marinara sauce tastes just like a Hot Pocket. If you are craving pizza but don’t want all the grease, then add some red hot pepper flakes or extra parmesan to your sandwich or marinara. Feel free to use your cheese of choice and start dipping!
- Grilled Cheese with Pesto
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You can either put the pesto on the sandwich or use it as a dipping sauce. I recommend using a milder cheese like white cheddar or mozzarella since the pesto has a nutty flavor.
- Vegan Grilled Cheese
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I know that dairy-free may sound like a bummer, it’s a great way to be environmentally friendly without sacrificing taste. My two favorite brands are Daiya and Follow Your Heart. Specifically, I prefer the shreds over the sliced cheese because the shreds melt faster and stretch more.
- Grilled Cheese with Pear or Apple Slices
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Putting fruit in a grilled cheese sandwich is such an unexpected joy! It makes the sandwich hearty, but not too sweet. Please do not use canned fruit and use fresh fruit instead because the syrup will make your grilled cheese soggy.
Additional tips:
Feel free to add bacon to grilled cheeses number two and five (especially if you are using apple slices!)
If you want a creamier center but still have some cheese stretching, I suggest you spread some cream cheese onto regular sliced cheese.
You can make option one more like a dessert by adding cream cheese or Philadelphia No Bake Cheesecake spread with the fruit spread or fig butter (Warning: this is very decadent!)
You can never go wrong with a romesco sauce.
Explore your options! Just because something is not on the list doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try it.