What goes with grilled cheese? This classic comfort food, known for its crispy exterior and gooey, melted interior, pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and drinks. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or a cozy snack, knowing the perfect accompaniments can elevate your meal.
In this article, we’ll explore easy side dishes, drink pairings, and more. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive guide to creating well-rounded meals that complement your grilled cheese, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.
What Goes with Grilled Cheese?
Grilled cheese sandwiches are versatile; they can be served with soups, salads, or sweets. Here are some popular and delicious items that pair wonderfully with grilled cheese:
1. Soups
Soup is a classic companion to grilled cheese, providing warmth and contrasting textures. Here are some popular options:
Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is the quintessential pairing, offering a tangy, creamy contrast to the richness of grilled cheese. The acidity of the tomatoes complements the cheese and buttery bread beautifully.
Butternut Squash Soup
This soup brings a touch of sweetness that balances the savory grilled cheese perfectly. The creamy texture works well together, particularly if you add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon for warmth.
Chicken Noodle Soup
The comforting flavors of chicken noodle soup provide excellent harmony with the crunchy bread and melty cheese. The addition of herbs in the soup can elevate the pairing experience.
2. Salads
Salads can provide a refreshing, crisp contrast to the richness of grilled cheese:
Caesar Salad
The creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and crispy romaine lettuce make for a delightful balance with grilled cheese. The savory notes of the dressing enhance the flavors of the cheese.
Caprese Salad
With its fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, Caprese salad echoes the cheese theme while adding brightness and acidity. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can tie the meal together nicely.
Spinach Salad
A simple spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a light, refreshing side that cuts through the heaviness of the sandwich. Adding nuts or seeds provides a lovely crunch.
3. Dips and Spreads
Dips and spreads can enhance the grilled cheese experience, inviting additional flavors:
Salsa
The zest of fresh salsa brings a refreshing contrast to the rich grilled cheese. Guacamole is also a fantastic dip, providing creaminess and flavor.
Chutney
Chutney adds a sweet and tangy element, perfect for those looking to add a bit of a twist to their meal. Mango or apple chutney can provide a delicious contrast to the savory cheese.
Honey
Drizzling honey over a grilled cheese sandwich can elevate the dish, creating a sweet-savory profile. It works particularly well with sharper cheeses, like aged cheddar.
4. Sides
If you’re looking for something more substantial, consider these classic sides:
French Fries
Nothing beats the combination of crispy fries with a cheesy sandwich. Try seasoning the fries with herbs or spices to add additional flavor.
Potato Chips
This crunchy side is excellent for adding texture to the meal. Look for homemade or gourmet varieties to pair with your gourmet grilled cheese.
Pickles
The tartness of pickles cuts through the richness of grilled cheese, making each bite more flavorful. Dill pickles, in particular, work wonderfully with cheesy sandwiches.
5. Fruits
For a sweeter note or refreshing contrast, fruits can make for an excellent side:
Apple Slices
Crisp apple slices with a sprinkle of cinnamon can bring out the flavors of cheese while offering a sweet crunch. Try serving them with a dip made from yogurt and honey.
Grapes
Serving grapes with grilled cheese provides a fresh, sweet burst to each bite while balancing the salty flavors of the sandwich.
Strawberries
Strawberries can be a delightful addition, especially when combined with balsamic reduction. The acidity and sweetness contrast nicely with the cheesy richness.
6. Beverages
Choosing the right drink is just as important as selecting the right sides. Here are some beverages that go well with grilled cheese:
Milk
This classic beverage pairs nicely with the creamy cheese, creating a comforting combination that’s hard to beat. Whole milk or chocolate milk works particularly well.
Tomato Juice
The acidity of tomato juice complements the flavors of grilled cheese, while the savory notes enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Refreshing Sparkling Water
For a light option, sparkling water with lemon offers a refreshing palate cleanser, allowing the flavors of the grilled cheese to shine through.
7. Considerations for Dietary Restrictions
When planning a meal with grilled cheese, considering dietary preferences is essential:
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread and ensure any soups or dips are free from gluten-containing ingredients.
Vegetarian and Vegan Pairings
Vegetarians can enjoy grilled cheese without modification, while vegans can opt for plant-based cheese and butter alternatives. Pairing with vegetable-based soups and salads enhances the meal.
8. Creating a Themed Grilled Cheese Meal
Consider creating a themed meal where all components harmonize:
American Classic
- Grilled cheese made with American cheese
- Tomato soup
- Pickles on the side
- Milk or iced tea
Italian Inspiration
- Grilled cheese with mozzarella and pesto
- Caprese salad
- Sparkling water with lemon
Comfort Food Feast
- Grilled cheese with cheddar and bacon
- Butternut squash soup
- French fries
- Chocolate milk
9. Leftover Grilled Cheese
What do you do with leftover grilled cheese? Here are some ideas:
Reheating
To reheat, place the sandwich in a toaster oven or skillet on medium heat until warmed through. This maintains the crispy texture.
Creative Transformations
Chop leftover grilled cheese into bite-sized pieces and use them in a salad or as an appetizer. You can also blend them into a creamy dip.
10. Conclusion
Grilled cheese is a versatile and beloved dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks. From classic tomato soup to refreshing salads or zesty dips, the options are plenty. Experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your perfect pairing.
For more cooking inspiration, check out our recipe for Starbucks Grilled Cheese Recipe or learn about what goes good with mac and cheese at What Goes Good With Mac and Cheese.