Imagine elevating the humble grilled cheese sandwich to new heights. Gone are the days of plain American cheese between two slices of white bread. Today, gourmet grilled cheese recipes offer a world of possibilities. As a child, I was content with the classic combination. But as I grew older, I began experimenting with different ingredients and techniques. Avocado? Grilled onions? Bacon? Three kinds of fancy cheese? Count me in! The concept of a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich is nothing new.
In fact, it’s often marketed as a hearty soup side or a satisfying snack on its own. And for good reason – the possibilities are endless. Gourmet grilled cheese ideas can combine multiple types of cheese with an array of complementary ingredients. Meats and veggies can also be balanced in harmony. Some recipes even incorporate fruit, such as pear, apples, or pineapples. The bread options are just as vast, ranging from sourdough to rye, pumpernickel to Pullman, multigrain, and more.
And then there’s the sweet grilled cheese options – yes, you read that right! Creativity knows no bounds when it comes to gourmet grilled cheese recipes. Consider serving a grilled cheese recipe alongside other dishes, allowing the flavors to complement each other. From Italian-inspired Caprese Grilled Cheese to sweet Blueberry Brie Grilled Cheese, and from breakfast champion Fried Egg Grilled Cheese to bruschetta, there’s something for everyone. And then there’s goat-cheese heaven – a must-try!
Enjoy this list of 19 gourmet grilled cheese recipes as you develop your own personal style and collection to draw from, anytime of the year.
Gourmet Grilled Cheese With Mascarpone, Strawberries, And Balsamic Glaze
Transforming the humble grilled cheese into an indulgent delight, this recipe combines crispy white bread with the sweetness of strawberries, creaminess of mascarpone cheese, and tanginess of pepper. The game-changer? A drizzle of homemade balsamic glaze that elevates the entire sandwich to new heights. Gone are the days of ordinary grilled cheese – today marks a new era in comfort food.
Caprese Grilled Cheese Sandwich
When it comes to gourmet grilled cheese, it’s common for inspiration to draw from popular entrees. In this instance, we’re flipping the script on a classic caprese salad by transforming it into a sandwich. The combination of sourdough bread, vibrant pesto, melted mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil results in a dish that expertly captures the essence of Italian cuisine.
Bacon, Pear & Fig Grilled Cheese
Indulge in a world of rich flavors with this unique gourmet grilled cheese creation. A harmonious blend of sweet and savory elements, featuring crispy bacon strips, tender pears sliced to perfection, and chewy dried figs, all nestled between slices of tangy sourdough bread and melted white cheddar cheese.
Ultimate Gourmet Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the addition of rosemary butter, infusing this fancy sandwich with an unmistakable flavor profile. The rich combination of Gruyere, white cheddar, and Muenster cheeses is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of caramelized onions, subtly enhanced by a hint of brown sugar. To take it to new heights of gastronomic excellence, consider adding the salty, crispy texture of prosciutto slices or the smoky indulgence of crispy bacon.
Roasted Red Pepper, Mushroom & Provolone Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Indulge in the rich flavors of this gourmet grilled cheese sandwich, featuring provolone cheese perfectly paired with toasted red peppers and sautéed mushrooms. The combination is nothing short of heavenly! To add an extra layer of creaminess, the recipe employs a unique technique: applying a thin layer of mayonnaise to the outside of the bread before cooking. This subtle touch elevates the overall taste experience.
As for the art of making a great grilled cheese, it’s all about patience and attention to detail. By cooking at a low temperature, you allow the cheese to melt evenly and the bread to toast gently, resulting in a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that will leave you craving another bite.
Vegan Feta Grilled Cheese With Spinac
When adopting a plant-based lifestyle, a delicious and satisfying vegan grilled cheese option to consider is a flavorful feta and spinach combination. This recipe idea is surprisingly easy to make, as you can use store-bought or homemade vegan feta, paired with either fresh or frozen spinach leaves. To add an extra layer of depth, don’t forget to sprinkle some ground black pepper for added warmth and zest.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delightful vegan take on the classic grilled cheese sandwich in no time.
Bacon Guacamole Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Get ready for a game-changing grilled cheese experience that will delight your taste buds! This indulgent recipe combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon, melted jack and cheddar cheese, and creamy guacamole on toasted sourdough bread. But here’s the twist: it also features an unexpected surprise – crunchy tortilla chips hidden inside. To take it to the next level, consider adding some diced tomatoes for a pop of freshness. This unique combination will have you hooked from the first bite!
Gourmet Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions
The world of gourmet grilled cheese has reached new heights with this extraordinary creation! The combination of rich flavors and textures is truly impressive. Just take a look at the impressive list of ingredients: a blend of creamy goat cheese, nutty Gruyere, sweet caramelized onions, tangy pickled beets, and peppery arugula all nestled within a buttery sourdough bread. The sheer quality of each component elevates this humble sandwich to an unparalleled level.
Apple & Gouda Grilled Cheese
One of my favorite gourmet grilled cheese creations combines the velvety, smoky goodness of gouda cheese with the snappy freshness of Granny Smith apples. The harmonious union of textures – crunchy apple and creamy cheese – is elevated by a delightful clash of flavors, where the savory richness of the gouda pairs perfectly with the tangy bite of the apples. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Imagine elevating a classic grilled cheese sandwich to new heights by incorporating garlic bread into the mix. This game-changing combination of flavors and textures is surprisingly straightforward to achieve. To get started, prepare a compound butter infused with the pungency of garlic, the nutty richness of Pecorino Romano, and the freshness of parsley. Spread this aromatic spread evenly onto the bread.
As for the cheese, while American slices are called for in the recipe, feel free to substitute in your favorite variety, as it’s likely to pair beautifully with the buttery, garlicky goodness.
BBQ Chicken & Pineapple Grilled Cheese
Say goodbye to the ordinary and hello to an extraordinary culinary experience. This gourmet grilled cheese sandwich is the epitome of unique and will surely satisfy your cravings. The harmonious blend of BBQ chicken, pineapple, and extra sharp cheddar cheese creates a flavor profile that’s undeniably Hawaiian-inspired and utterly irresistible.
Bacon, Lettuce & Tomato Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Take the timeless classic of a grilled cheese sandwich, add some savory elements, and you get the indulgent BLTGC (that’s grilled cheese with bacon, lettuce, and tomato). The game-changer here is the simple yet genius technique of melting butter and brushing it onto the bread before grilling. This subtle tweak elevates the entire sandwich, making the flavors pop in a way that will leave you craving more.
With crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and gooey cheese, this BLTGC combination has never tasted so divine.
Bruschetta Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
At the heart of this upscale grilled cheese creation lies a foundation of bruschetta bread, setting the tone for a flavorfully rich experience. The filling, in turn, boasts a harmonious blend of familiar yet tantalizing elements: juicy tomatoes, sweet and pungent red onion, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil that ties everything together.
Meanwhile, the cheese component is comprised of a delightful duo – creamy mozzarella and nutty parmesan – carefully crafted to evoke the authentic essence of Italy.
Blueberry Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Indulge in a delightful fusion of lunch and dessert with this delectable recipe for elevated grilled cheese creations! The inspiration behind it? None other than the alluring letter ‘B’, which brings together buttery goodness, bread, Brie, and a sweet surprise – blueberries. Fresh or from blueberry pie filling/jam, these luscious fruits add a pop of color and flavor to this gourmet grilled cheese experience.
Gruyere Grilled Cheese With Ham & Fig Jam
Gourmet grilled cheese creations tantalize the senses with their rich textures and bold flavors, leaving one craving the perfect combination. The harmonious union of ingredients is what makes these indulgent sandwiches truly unforgettable.
Grilled Goat Cheese Sandwich With Pesto & Arugula
A harmonious union of flavors and textures is achieved when pesto, arugula, sliced tomatoes, creamy avocado, melted mozzarella, and tangy goat cheese come together in perfect culinary harmony. The crowning glory is the crispy, golden-brown crust that forms on the bread as parmesan cheese is pressed into the buttered outside, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Brie Apple And Cranberry Grilled Cheese
Indulge in a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich that’s anything but ordinary, as it combines rich Brie, tender apple slices, and tangy whole berry cranberry sauce. To elevate this delightful combination to new heights, the secret lies in brushing the bread with wine before grilling. The result is a harmonious blend of gooey cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy apple slices that will transport your taste buds to heaven.
Fried Egg Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Incorporating an egg into a grilled cheese recipe opens up new possibilities for serving times – why not have it for breakfast or lunch? The addition of the egg brings a touch of sophistication to the dish, allowing you to cook it to your desired level of doneness. When it comes to selecting the perfect cheese, the options are endless, but colby jack and pepper jack are top-notch recommendations.
What’s more, this adaptable sandwich is simplicity itself – all it takes is some quality ingredients and a bit of creativity.
Ultimate Disney Grilled Cheese Copycat Recipe
In the midst of Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios, a culinary surprise awaits. Amidst the abundance of theme park treats, this gourmet grilled cheese sandwich shines as a hidden gem. Its allure is undeniable, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a magical dining experience. The sandwich boasts an impressive array of ingredients, including a mayo-garlic spread, cream cheese spread, cheddar, and provolone cheese slices.
This indulgent combination will surely elevate your theme park visit to new heights. Feeling adventurous? Forgo the traditional tomato soup pairing in favor of Grilled Tomatoes for a delightful twist.
The bottom line
Crafting gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches can be a truly delightful experience, with endless possibilities for combination and experimentation. Whether you’re a fan of classic pairings or looking to push the boundaries of flavor and texture, the world of gourmet grilled cheese is waiting to be explored.
