Grilled cheese is probably everybody’s comfort food. Why would it not be? It’s quick, easy, and delicious. It is a recipe that has been made a hundred times over since years, and still no one is bored of it. However, people do like to tweak things a little and adjust the traditional recipe according to their taste and styles. People like to experiment by adding new things to make it more interesting and delicious. But not all experiments pass, and nor do all experiments become favourite as some people like to stick with the classic grilled cheese recipe.
Let’s dive into the modern twists added to the traditional recipes and discover who won the battle- the classic grilled cheese or the modern twists?
Round One: Classic Grilled Cheese
Let’s start with the hero, the timeless classic – the traditional grilled cheese sandwich. Nobody is unaware of it; bread toasted until it’s a lovely golden colour, and inside, there’s this melted cheese that stretches when you take a bite. It is warm and everyone’s go-to. Whether you use cheddar, American, Mozzarella or Swiss cheese between two buttered white bread slices, this sandwich makes you feel good after a long day. It’s the perfect comfort food made of crunchy, buttery, cheesy flavours.
This grilled cheese is special because it’s basic yet fantastic. It takes absolutely no effort and less than 10 minutes to prepare. People love making this recipe because it’s the sandwich you want on a tough day or when you’re feeling low. There’s no fancy stuff; it’s simple joy between two slices of bread.
Round Two: The Modern Twists
This is where the grilled cheese game levels up. The simple grilled cheese is not so-simple anymore. People have started adding their own twists according to their tastes. The best part is that there is no rule book, you can do whatever you want. The possibilities here to change the recipe are endless. You can either add a slice of crispy bacon, a layer of caramelised onions, some pickled vegetables or perhaps some thinly sliced apples to your grilled cheese. Some people also experiment with using unexpected cheeses like brie or goat cheese, elevating the flavour profile to new heights. Others swap out traditional bread for sourdough or multigrain for healthier options, adding depth and texture to the overall experience.
Let’s take a look at some of these modern recipes:
- Spicy Jalapeño Grilled Cheese
If you’re looking to add some spice in your grilled cheese sandwich, then this is the recipe for you. Spread one side of each sourdough bread piece with butter and set it, greased side down, on a pan set over medium heat. Arrange slices of Pepper Jack cheese and add fresh or pickled jalapeños on the toast. For added flavour, feel free to add pickled veggies such as red onions or banana peppers. Place another piece of bread on top, buttered side up, and cook until the cheese is melted, and the bread is browned on the outside. This grilled cheese gives a deliciously spicy twist to your typical grilled cheese by combining the creamy melt of pepper jack with the spicy touch of jalapeños and tangy pickled veggies. Slice it diagonally and enjoy!
- Gourmet Grilled Cheese with Gruyère Cheese and Mushrooms:
When you want some sharpness in your food, this is the recipe you should make. Gruyere cheese is known for its mild taste therefore, it would be perfect to pair it up with mushrooms. Combine minced garlic and sauté mixed mushrooms until golden. Spread butter on the sourdough slices, then top one with a layer of shredded gruyère cheese and sautéed mushrooms. Place another slice on top, then cook until the bread is golden brown, and the cheese has melted. For a tasty twist, you can optionally sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the sliced fresh sandwich.
- Grilled Cheese With Apples, Bacon, and Cheddar:
Simple and effortless. Spread buttered whole-grain bread with shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Top with fried bacon and thinly sliced apples. Place another piece of bread on top, then grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden and crispy. Pour some honey over it if you’d like, then slice and serve this crispy and sweet treat.
- Caprese Grilled Cheese:
Slices of buttered Italian bread are stacked with fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil leaves to make a caprese grilled cheese. If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze. Cook under the grill until the bread is crispy and brown and the cheese melts. Present this delightful Italian-inspired dish in diagonal slices to enjoy to the fullest.
Final Thoughts: Which One Wins?
Both the traditional and modern twists on grilled cheese have their own special appeals. While traditional grilled cheese is simple and delicious, modern twists add extra flavour and level up the game. Whichever you choose, grilled cheese will always remain a comfort food.
