13 New Ways to Make Grilled Cheese Amazing

Grilled cheese will always be a comfort food favorite, but there’s no reason to stick with the same old cheddar-and-white-bread combo. With a little creativity, you can turn this classic into something fresh, bold, or even sweet. Whether you want something gourmet, spicy, or veggie-packed, these twists add variety without losing the melty goodness you love. Each one is simple enough for a quick lunch but flavorful enough to feel special. Here are 13 delicious ways to take grilled cheese to the next level.

Caprese Grilled Cheese

Layer fresh mozzarella, ripe tomato slices, and fragrant basil leaves between crusty bread for a bright, Italian-inspired sandwich. Brush the outside with olive oil instead of butter for a subtle Mediterranean flavor. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze inside before grilling for sweetness and depth. The mozzarella melts into a creamy layer that blends with the juicy tomato, while the basil adds fresh aroma in every bite. Best made in summer with peak-season tomatoes, but satisfying any time of year, this version is fresh, flavorful, and just as easy as the classic.

BBQ Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Leftover pulled pork makes a hearty grilled cheese filling when paired with sharp cheddar or smoked gouda on sturdy bread. Grill until the bread is crisp and the cheese gooey, letting the barbecue sauce mingle with the creamy cheese for smoky‑sweet richness. For extra kick, slip in pickled jalapeños or add coleslaw for crunch. More than a snack, this hearty version often doubles as a full meal, making it perfect for weekend lunches or casual dinners.

Spinach and Feta Grilled Cheese

Sauté fresh spinach with a pinch of garlic until just wilted, then pair it with crumbled feta on whole-grain bread. Add a little mozzarella for meltability, helping the filling hold together. The feta brings a salty tang, the spinach adds earthiness, and the garlic gives a subtle depth of flavor. This version feels lighter but still indulgent, and it’s a great way to sneak in extra greens. Serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup or a crisp cucumber salad for a balanced, satisfying meal that works for lunch or dinner.

Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese

Spread softened cream cheese on the inside of the bread, add thinly sliced fresh or roasted jalapeños, and top with shredded cheddar or pepper jack. Roasting the peppers first adds a smoky sweetness while softening their heat. Grill until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is crisp. The cream cheese creates a smooth, tangy base that contrasts with the peppers’ spice, while the cheddar adds bold flavor. This version is a must-try for spice lovers and works especially well as a game day snack or late-night comfort bite.

Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese

Combine thin slices of crisp apple with creamy brie on sturdy bread such as sourdough. The apple’s natural sweetness balances the brie’s buttery richness, creating a sophisticated flavor combination. Lightly brush the bread with butter before grilling until golden. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle in a little honey or add a sprinkle of fresh thyme. This sandwich pairs beautifully with butternut squash soup or a side salad, making it an elegant yet easy option for lunch, brunch, or a light dinner.

Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese

Mix shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce until coated, then layer it with mozzarella or provolone on bread. For added creaminess, spread a thin layer of ranch or blue cheese dressing inside before grilling. The tangy, spicy sauce balances perfectly with the mild, gooey cheese, creating a bold but not overwhelming flavor. Grill until the bread is crisp and the cheese melts through. This version is perfect for game day or anytime you want your grilled cheese to pack a little heat without sacrificing that comforting, melty bite.

Pesto and Tomato Grilled Cheese

Spread basil pesto on both slices of bread, then add slices of fresh tomato and mozzarella or provolone. Grill until the bread is golden and the cheese is fully melted. The pesto’s herb-packed, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with the juicy tomato, while the cheese ties it all together. Use a crusty bread like ciabatta to handle the tomato’s moisture without getting soggy. This bright, flavorful twist tastes like something you’d order at a café, but it comes together in minutes at home.

Mushroom and Swiss Grilled Cheese

Sauté mushrooms slowly in butter with garlic and thyme until deep golden and their moisture evaporates, concentrating the flavor. Layer them with nutty Swiss cheese on rye or sourdough before grilling. The earthy mushrooms and mellow cheese complement each other perfectly, while sturdy bread prevents sogginess. Hearty enough to stand alone, this variation also pairs beautifully with tomato or vegetable soups for a comfort‑packed meal.

Mediterranean Grilled Cheese

Layer roasted red peppers, sliced olives, baby spinach, and crumbled feta on whole-grain bread. Add provolone or mozzarella to help the filling melt together. Grill until the bread is crisp and the cheese starts to ooze into the vegetables. The mix of salty feta, sweet peppers, and briny olives gives every bite a burst of flavor. Serve with hummus or a cucumber salad on the side for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal. This is a lighter grilled cheese that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Cook bacon until crisp, then layer it with sharp cheddar on bread. Grill until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden. The smoky, salty crunch of the bacon balances perfectly with the creamy sharpness of the cheddar. For an unexpected twist, add a thin spread of apple butter or a slice of tomato to cut through the richness. This version is classic comfort food at its best—hearty, flavorful, and always a crowd favorite.

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Grilled Cheese

Slow-cook sliced onions in butter over low heat until golden and jammy, then layer them with Gruyère cheese between slices of bread. Grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is crisp. The onions’ sweetness complements the nutty, slightly salty Gruyère, making each bite taste like French onion soup in sandwich form. For extra indulgence, serve with a small cup of warm broth for dipping. This variation feels refined but still delivers that melty, toasty comfort you expect from grilled cheese.

Kimchi and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Layer tangy, spicy kimchi: well‑drained so the bread won’t soften, with sharp cheddar on sturdy slices. Grill until the cheese melts and the kimchi warms through but retains crunch. The fermented cabbage adds bold flavor and texture that contrast with creamy cheese. For an extra‑crispy crust, spread a thin layer of mayo on the bread exterior before grilling. This adventurous twist blends comfort food with Korean flavors for a bold, satisfying bite.

Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese Grilled Cheese

Blend cream cheese with fresh dill and lemon, then spread on bread before adding smoked salmon and a mild cheese such as Havarti or Swiss. Grill gently; just enough to melt the cheese while keeping the salmon delicate. The result is creamy, savory, and subtly tangy, with a bright herbal finish. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner, especially alongside cucumber salad or roasted asparagus, this version feels indulgent yet refined.