Beyond the Basics: 5 Gourmet Upgrades That’ll Make You Forget Plain Old Cheddar
Grilled cheese is comfort food perfection—crispy, buttery, oozing with melted goodness.
But what if you could turn that humble sandwich into something restaurant-worthy—without extra fuss or fancy tools?
With just one or two smart twists, your grilled cheese can go from “kid’s lunch” to “dinner party star.”
Here are 5 chef-approved upgrades that keep it easy but elevate every bite.
🌟 The Foundation: Start with the Right Basics
Before you get creative, nail the essentials:
Bread: Sourdough, brioche, or rustic country loaf (avoid flimsy white bread)
Cheese: Use at least two cheeses—one melty (mozzarella, provolone), one flavorful (sharp cheddar, Gruyère, fontina)
Fat: Butter both sides of the bread (or use mayo for extra crispness!)
Heat: Cook low and slow—golden brown, not burnt!
Now… let’s get fancy.
🧄 1. Garlic-Herb Butter Upgrade
How: Mix 2 tbsp softened butter with 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary, and a pinch of flaky salt. Spread on the outside of the bread before grilling.
Why: Infuses every bite with savory depth—no extra steps!
Pair with: Tomato soup or a simple arugula salad.
🍅 2. Caprese Grilled Cheese:
