50+ Epic Grilled Cheese Recipes That Are Anything But Boring

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Looking for the best grilled cheese sandwiches? This ultimate guide has 50+ creative recipes, from Three-Cheese to Peach Bacon Brie! Discover easy grilled cheese recipes that turn this classic into an epic meal. Ready to upgrade your grilled cheese? Save this list now!

With a few creative ingredients and fun ideas, we can take the classic grilled cheese sandwich to next-level indulgence! And I have just the recipes to get the ball rolling…

Discover how to make a good grilled cheese with our easy recipe that combines perfectly toasted bread and melty cheese. This is the ultimate comfort food - simple, delicious, and always satisfying. Perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their grilled cheese game!
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1. Three-Cheese Grilled Cheese

The more cheese, the better—am I right? 

This recipe brings together three of my favorites: Pepper Jack, aged Gouda, and shredded Colby Jack, all sandwiched between two slices of French bread and grilled to perfection.

The result? A cheesy, melty masterpiece with the ultimate cheese pull!

For the full recipe, click here.

2. Brie Grilled Cheese

Creamy, melted Brie nestled in golden, crispy bread – this Brie Grilled Cheese offers a rich, buttery twist on a classic favorite!
Credit: @tarateaspoon

If you’ve never made a grilled cheese using brie before, you’re seriously missing out! You know why? Brie’s mild flavor makes it a perfect match for just about any ingredient.

In this case, we’re pairing it with caramelized onions. Think about it — the creamy, buttery, and slightly nutty notes of the cheese blend with the sweet, savory, and complex taste of the onions. 

It’s a match made in grilled cheese heaven!

Get the full recipe, and click here.

3. Pimento Grilled Cheese

Thanks to its tangy flavor, light and airy texture, and vibrant orange color, a lot of folks can’t get enough of pimento cheese — including me! 

So, I did what any foodie would do: I added it to my grilled cheese sandwich, and let me tell you, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. 

This recipe packs on just the right amount of heat to give the dish a little kick without being too overpowering. 

If you want the full recipe, click here.

4. Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese

Get ready for a flavor-packed combo with our Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese! Savory, saucy Sloppy Joe filling meets melted cheese and crispy bread, creating a hearty, satisfying twist on two classic favorites.
Credit: @cookdrankeat

If you love a good ol’ sloppy joe, and you’re a huge fan of grilled cheese, this is definitely one recipe you want to make at home! It’s super simple to prepare and it comes together in just 15 minutes.

For the full recipe, click here.

5. Peach Bacon Brie Grilled Cheese

This Peach Bacon Brie Grilled Cheese is the ultimate sweet-and-savory delight! Juicy peaches, crispy bacon, and creamy Brie come together between golden toasted bread for a uniquely delicious twist on a classic.
Credit: @commune_va

When it comes to brie, you know it will taste good no matter what you pair it with. So, I’ve been mixing and matching it with a bunch of different ingredients, and I might have just hit the jackpot!

In this recipe, we’re combining it with peach preserves, crispy bacon slices, and a dash of honey to make a sandwich that’s the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, sweet, and savory.

Want to get the full recipe? Click here!

6. Dessert Grilled Cheese

Get ready for a grilled cheese like you’ve never had it before! We’re turning it into a dessert, and here’s how:

Swap out your usual bread for slices of pound cake, and forget about the usual savory fillings. Instead, we’re layering in fresh raspberries and chocolate for a sweet twist. 

The one thing that stays the same? You guessed it — cheese! 

Get the full recipe, and click here.

7. Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Tomato

This Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Tomato is a savory classic taken up a notch! Crispy bacon, juicy tomato, and melty cheese come together between perfectly toasted bread for a satisfying, flavorful bite every time.
Credit: @thisbabeeats

You don’t have to go crazy when making grilled cheese. Sometimes, something as simple as adding bacon strips and tomato slices is enough to turn an already delicious dish so much better!

So give this recipe a try, and click here!

8. Philly Grilled Cheese Sandwich

This Philly Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a mouthwatering fusion of two classics! Juicy steak, melted cheese, and sautéed peppers and onions are layered between crispy, toasted bread, bringing the iconic Philly flavor to each delicious bite.
Credit: @busy_cooks

The Philly cheesesteak is already a sandwich, but if you want to turn it into grilled cheese, all you have to do is switch out the hoagie rolls for sliced bread! It’s that simple.

Want to make this at home? Click here.

9. Grilled Cheese Soup

The combo of tomato and cheese is an age-old formula that’s worked with pizzas, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and soups! This recipe is proof of that. 

If you’re sitting there, wondering, “What’s a grilled cheese soup?” It’s basically tomato soup topped with cheese and croutons, then baked until melty. 

It’s got all the components of grilled cheese but in soup form! What’s not to love?

Try this recipe and click here.

10. Lunchbox Grilled Cheese

Have you ever packed grilled cheese for lunch only to eat it when it’s already cold and soggy? I have! Don’t get me wrong, it was still good and I finished every bite of it. But I knew it could be better. 

So, in this recipe, you’ll learn how to make grilled cheese that’s still melted, buttery, and salty even after you leave it for a few hours in your lunchbox!

To get the full details, click here.

11. Loaded Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Sometimes, I’m all about that classic cheese-and-bread combo, while other times, I crave something a bit sweeter. But on those days when I can’t make up my mind, I go for the works!

This recipe is packed with four types of cheese — Smoked Gouda, Dill Havarti, Fontina, and American — along with creamy avocado, juicy Roma tomato, and a hint of dill. 

It’s so hearty and satisfying that it’ll keep you full for hours!

Want the full recipe? Click here.

12. Lobster Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Making a bougie grilled cheese sandwich doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as stacking some lobster meat on melty cheese and topping it off with your homemade lemon mayo mixture.

To get the full recipe, click here.

13. Freezer Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Don’t have enough time to make a hearty dish in the kitchen? No problem. This freezer grilled cheese recipe is your best friend when it comes to meal prepping for the week!

So, pre-assemble your sandwiches during the weekend, pack them in individual Ziplock bags, and stash them in the freezer. When you’re ready, you can pop them in the oven for a quick and easy meal!

For the step-by-step guide, click here.

14. Best Air Fryer Grilled Cheese

Using an air fryer to make grilled cheese is a complete game-changer. The circulating hot air toasts the bread to crisp golden-brown perfection, and it also melts the cheese like a dream!

This recipe only takes 10 minutes to make, and you’ll need just 5 ingredients: bread of your choice, some mayo, butter, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese.

Stack them all up, and your sandwich is good to go.

Want the full recipe? Click here!

15. Grilled Apple Cheese Sandwich

The tart sweetness of the apple paired with the salty tangy cheddar cheese creates the perfect balance of flavors. Plus, the crunch from the fruit adds a fun texture to the dish!

Get the full recipe, and click here.

16. High Protein Grilled Cheese

Who says you can’t enjoy your favorite childhood snack while sticking to a high-protein diet? Not me! It’s all about making a few simple swaps.

Replace the French bread with Ezekiel bread. Next, switch out the bacon for turkey breast to cut down on fat. And for the cheese, opt for a fat-free variety instead of the regular kind.

Start making this high-protein grilled cheese, and click here.

17. Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich

Enjoy a classic favorite with a twist in this Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich! Combining savory ham and gooey cheese between perfectly toasted bread, this easy recipe delivers a crispy, delicious sandwich in a fraction of the time, thanks to the air fryer.
Credit: @matcha.eats

Air fryer grilled ham and cheese sandwiches come out perfectly crispy on the outside, with gooey, melty cheese inside that makes every bite irresistible!

And it literally only takes 4 ingredients: bread, cheese, ham, and softened butter. Put them all together, pop them in the air fryer, and voila — your grilled cheese is done!

For a more in-depth look at this recipe, click here.

18. Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese is an incredibly decadent dish that contains both gluten (from the bread) and dairy (from the cheese). But, how can you enjoy this comfort food if you can’t have either or both? 

Well, today’s your lucky day because I’m sharing an allergy-friendly recipe that has all the essence of grilled cheese, minus the nuts, eggs, dairy, soy, and gluten!

If you want to learn more, click here.

19. Toaster Grilled Cheese

I get it — making grilled cheese can get a bit messy. If you want to skip the hassle, this recipe is for you! 

Using the toaster oven as opposed to a grill or the stove is a convenient way to make this comfort food nearly hands-free! 

To get the full recipe, click here.

20. Truffle Grilled Cheese

Take it from me: this recipe will change how you look and think about the classic grilled cheese. It’s fancy, yet easy to make, and it’s all thanks to one superstar ingredient: truffle. 

Real truffles can be pricey and hard to find, but don’t worry — truffle oil is a fantastic alternative. With this simple swap, you’ll still savor those luxurious flavors without breaking the bank!

Get the full details, and click here.

21. Vegan Grilled Cheese

The vegan cheese options at most local markets can be pretty disappointing. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and make my own! 

And cheddar is the way to go — it’s versatile, bold, and downright delicious. 

After making your homemade vegan cheese, assemble your sandwich and grill until the bread is perfectly toasty and golden. It’s the ultimate comfort food, made with simple, wholesome ingredients.

For the full recipe, click here.

22. Grilled Cheese and Jam Sandwich

There are so many ways to get creative with a grilled cheese sandwich and adding jam into the mix is one fun idea! This recipe is a simple twist on the classic, and it makes the perfect snack or appetizer!

If you want to get the full details, click here.

23. Panera Copycat Fontina Grilled Cheese

If you’re in the mood to get creative with your grilled cheese, why not go all-in on the cheese? 

Instead of loading up on extras like onions, avocado, or bacon, try a three-cheese approach inspired by Panera’s Fontina recipe! 

Start with creamy Fontina, then add sharp and tangy Provolone. Finish it off with a garlic and herb cheese spread, and you’ve got a cheesy masterpiece that gives the ultimate cheese pull! 

For the full recipe, click here.

24. Grilled Cheese Roll-ups

If you find a whole grilled cheese sandwich too filling for an afternoon snack, try rolling it up into bite-sized pieces. That way, you can enjoy better portion control while transforming a hearty dish into a fun finger food!

Want to try this out? Click here!

25. French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich

What do you get when you mix the iconic French onion soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich?

You get a full and satisfying meal that has caramelized onions, mushrooms, crunchy sourdough bread, and a perfectly buttery finish!

If you want to recreate this dish at home, click here!

26. French Toast Grilled Cheese

Indulge in a sweet and savory treat with this French Toast Grilled Cheese! This creative twist features gooey cheese nestled between slices of cinnamon-spiced French toast, perfectly golden and crispy. It's a deliciously unique combination that's perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Credit: @sohophilly

Typically, you use plain sourdough, Pullman loaf, baguette, or ciabatta to make grilled cheese. But, let’s take it up a notch and use French toast instead.

It has just the right amount of sweetness — thanks to the maple syrup, cinnamon sugar, and vanilla extract — to complement the richness of the cheese and the savory notes of the eggs and sausage links.

Give this recipe a try! Click here.

27. Starbucks Grilled Cheese

Thanks to this recipe, I can skip the drive to Starbucks for my grilled cheese craving! 

Now, I can recreate it using a few simple ingredients: sourdough bread, white cheddar, mozzarella, and a touch of parmesan butter. 

Want to try it at home? Click here.

28. Grilled Cheese Salad

Grilled cheese can be anything you want it to be, whether that’s a sandwich, soup, dessert, or — in this case — salad.

To do that, we’re taking the foundations of this classic comfort food — cheese and bread — and adding fresh and nutritious toppings, like arugula, tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado.

To get the full recipe, click here.

29. Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs

Grilled cheese hot dogs bring together the savory goodness of a classic hot dog wrapped in a golden, cheesy crust, delivering incredible texture and taste that’s sure to be a crowd favorite!

For the complete list of ingredients + step-by-step guide, click here.

30. Grilled Cheese Steak Sandwich

Indulge in hearty flavor with this Grilled Cheese Steak Sandwich! Tender, juicy steak is layered with melty cheese and nestled between crispy, toasted bread, creating a satisfying and deliciously rich sandwich that's perfect for any meat lover.
Credit: @utetastic

With this recipe, you don’t just get tender bites of a marinated grilled steak, you also get to enjoy the smoky flavors throughout the whole grilled cheese. 

For the best results, use a charcoal or wood grill, and for the beef cut, use a hanger, skirt, or flank steak.

Get the full recipe, and click here

31. Spicy Grilled Cheese

Ignite your taste buds with this Spicy Grilled Cheese! This bold sandwich features melty cheese infused with zesty peppers and spices, all nestled between crispy, golden bread for a deliciously fiery twist on the classic comfort food.
Credit: @dynastyfoods

For all the spice lovers out there, here’s a simple spin on a grilled cheese sandwich that’s packed with zesty flavors.

You’ll need jalapeño cream cheese, sharp white cheddar cheese, orange cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, and hatch chili gouda. What a delicious way to turn up the heat!

If you want the complete details, click here.

32. Zucchini Grilled Cheese

If raw zucchini isn’t your thing but you still want to give it a shot, here’s what you can do: layer it in a sandwich with melted cheese, then pair it with balsamic glaze on the side. 

Take a bite, and you might just find yourself loving zucchini more than ever!

For the full recipe breakdown, click here.

33. Oven-Baked Grilled Cheese

Experience the ease of this Oven-Baked Grilled Cheese! Perfectly crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, this method allows you to make multiple sandwiches at once, creating a deliciously golden and gooey treat that’s ideal for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Credit: @ph.snowie

Want to know the secret to making several grilled cheese sandwiches in one go? Bake them in the oven! All you need is some bread, cheese, and a half-sheet pan. 

Before you know it, you’ll have 6 melts ready to go at the same time!

For the full recipe, click here.

34. Blueberry White Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Delight in the unique flavor combination of this Blueberry White Cheddar Grilled Cheese! Creamy white cheddar meets sweet, juicy blueberries between crispy, toasted bread, creating a deliciously unexpected sandwich that balances savory and sweet in every bite.
Credit: @taylorgolub

Inspired by the sweet and salty combo of cheese and jam, this recipe combines the juicy blueberries with the sharp, nutty flavors of white cheddar to take your classic grilled cheese from basic to bold!

To get the complete recipe, click here.

35. Gourmet Grilled Cheese

Upgrade your sandwich experience with Gourmet Grilled Cheese! Featuring a blend of artisanal cheeses, fresh herbs, and gourmet toppings, all nestled between perfectly toasted bread, this indulgent creation transforms the classic grilled cheese into a sophisticated and flavorful delight.
Credit: @wildsugar_

There are three things that make a gourmet grilled cheese: high-quality ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and special condiments. 

In this version, we’re switching traditional cheddar for Havarti cheese and adding a secret ingredient — spicy green harissa. That ought to level up a sandwich to gourmet status.

If you want to get the breakdown of the recipe, click here.

36. Rainbow Grilled Cheese

A rainbow grilled cheese is just as fun and tasty as it looks. 

All you need are some shredded mozzarella, your favorite bread, salted butter, food coloring, and a little imagination to bring this vibrant creation to life!

To learn more about it, click here.

37. Strawberry Grilled Cheese

Break out of your usual sandwich routine with this refreshing strawberry grilled cheese! 

This recipe features layers of creamy fresh mozzarella, juicy strawberries, and buttery avocado, all tucked in 2 slices of your favorite bread. 

It’s a quirky yet tasty twist on the classic, with each bite bringing a fresh mix of flavors that’ll keep you hooked!

So, why settle for the same ol’ grilled cheese when you can upgrade to something this good?

Want the full recipe? Click here.

38. Honey Banana Grilled Cheese Sandwich

The honey banana grilled cheese sandwich is a real treat, perfect for kicking off your morning or wrapping up the day on a sweet note.

It’s got that perfect balance of rich flavor and satisfying texture, making it a great pick anytime. You can have it for breakfast for a little energy boost or save it for dessert!

Check out the complete recipe, and click here.

39. Brie and Pear Grilled Cheese

This irresistible grilled cheese has crisp, juicy pear slices paired with creamy brie that melts like a dream.

Then, a drizzle of sweet honey and a handful of peppery arugula join the party, making this one of my favorite grilled cheese creations yet!

If you want to recreate this at home, click here.

40. French Dip Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Experience a mouthwatering fusion with French Dip Grilled Cheese Sandwich! Tender, thinly sliced beef is layered with gooey cheese and grilled to perfection between crispy bread, served alongside a rich, savory au jus for dipping. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a delicious twist!
Credit: @thrivinghome

When a plain grilled cheese is not enough to satisfy your hunger, a simple addition of roast beef does the trick to make this comfort food extra filling. 

I’m talking about layers of deli roast beef piled between slices of classic white bread and gooey provolone, with a hint of yellow mustard and crispy fried onions.

But of course, you can’t have a French dip without au jus! Luckily, you can make a super easy homemade version that doubles as your dipping sauce. 

To get the full details, click here.

41. Tuna Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Enjoy a delightful twist on a classic with Tuna Grilled Cheese Sandwich! This hearty creation features a creamy tuna salad paired with gooey melted cheese, all nestled between crispy, golden-brown bread. It's a satisfying and flavorful meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner!
Credit: @omgihtslinda

Canned tuna is one pantry staple I can’t get enough of. It’s so versatile — you can toss it into a salad, mix it with pasta, or even top a pizza. 

But when it comes down to it, my absolute favorite way to use it is in a warm, creamy tuna grilled cheese sandwich. There’s just something about that combo that hits the spot every time!

Want to make this recipe? Click here.

42. Starbucks Sourdough Grilled Cheese

Recreate the café experience at home with Starbucks Sourdough Grilled Cheese! This delicious sandwich features rich, melty cheese perfectly grilled between slices of tangy sourdough bread, delivering a crispy, golden exterior and gooey, flavorful interior that's sure to satisfy your cravings.
Credit: @yourbreadbox

Using sourdough bread, a cheesy blend of mozzarella and cheddar, and some Dijon mustard and garlic Parmesan butter, this recipe is better than Starbucks… there, I said it! 

It’s a perfect go-to snack for a quick meal or a cozy weekend treat. Seriously, why shell out $6 for something you can easily prepare at home and make even better?

To get the full recipe, click here.

43. Grilled Cheese with Prosciutto

Indulge in a savory delight with Grilled Cheese with Prosciutto! This gourmet sandwich features layers of rich, melted cheese and thinly sliced prosciutto, all nestled between crispy, toasted bread. The combination of flavors creates a deliciously satisfying twist on the classic grilled cheese.
Credit: @thefoodjoy

You can never go wrong with a prosciutto grilled cheese sandwich — it’s comfort food at its finest! Just layer on some thinly sliced prosciutto, fresh tomatoes, garlic basil pesto, plus lots and lots of mozzarella sticks. 

Check out the full recipe: click here.

44. Fried Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Also known as Deep Frenchees, this is a well-loved mid-western classic. It’s ultra crispy on the outside and perfectly melty on the inside. To me, this is pure grilled cheese heaven!

Try this out, and click here.

45. Grilled Cheese on the Grill

Take your grilled cheese to the next level with Grilled Cheese on the Grill! This outdoor version features gooey cheese perfectly melted between slices of crusty bread, infused with a smoky flavor from the grill. It’s a delicious twist on the classic comfort food, perfect for summer cookouts!
Credit: @grillgrates

Growing up, I would make grilled cheese in a pan, but let me tell you, cooking them on a grill has its own set of perks! 

First off, you get that perfect char on the outside without the risk of burning them completely.

Also, you can cook multiple sandwiches at the same time, which is a game changer if you’re hosting a cookout or a small get-together.

For the full recipe, click here.

46. Smoked Salmon Grilled Cheese

Upgrade your grilled cheese experience with Smoked Salmon Grilled Cheese! This sophisticated sandwich features creamy cheese paired with savory smoked salmon, all nestled between crispy, toasted bread. The rich flavors create a deliciously unique twist on the classic favorite, perfect for brunch or a light lunch.
Credit: @thefishfriar

If you’re looking for a grilled cheese recipe that checks all the boxes for a balanced meal, this is it!

It’s got carbs from the bread, dairy from the cheese, healthy fats from the avocado, and protein from the salmon. Plus, you can whip it up in mere minutes!

Want to learn how to make it? Click here.

47. Spinach Dip Grilled Cheese

If you think nothing beats spinach dip and chips, give this recipe a shot! It delivers the same hot, bubbly, and creamy goodness, but with the added crunch of crispy bread slices.

For the full details, click here.

48. Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese

Spice up your lunch with Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese! This bold sandwich features creamy Pepper Jack cheese melted to perfection between crispy, toasted bread, delivering a delightful kick of heat that elevates the classic grilled cheese experience. Perfect for those who love a little extra flavor!
Credit: @easytigeratx

Pepper Jack is kind of like Monterey Jack. The only difference is it contains peppers like jalapeños, habañero chilies, and even sweet bell peppers.

That little extra heat adds just the right amount of zing, turning a simple comfort food into a spicy, yet cheesy delight!

To get the full recipe, click here.

49. Pickle Grilled Cheese

Pickle lovers, this one’s for you! If you can’t get enough of that tangy treat, then get ready for a snack you’ll absolutely adore.

It’s a quick and easy recipe loaded with tart pickle slices, crispy potato chips, and melty cheese! It’s a dish that’ll make any pickle lover drool!

For the full recipe, click here.

50. Taco Grilled Cheese

This recipe is the perfect mashup of two delicious dishes: taco and grilled cheese. It’s made with ground beef, cheddar cheese, avocado, and tomato stuffed inside two slices of perfectly golden and buttery bread. 

it’s hearty, filling, tasty, and easy to prepare!

If you want to learn how to make this, click here.

51. Pear and Gouda Grilled Cheese

Creamy and nutty gouda cheese meets sweet and crunchy pears in this delicious grilled cheese recipe. And bonus — we’re incorporating some balsamic onions to seal the deal!

Want the full recipe? Click here!

52. Jalapeño Bacon Grilled Cheese

Spice up your meal with Jalapeño Bacon Grilled Cheese! This irresistible sandwich combines crispy bacon and zesty jalapeños with gooey melted cheese, all grilled to perfection between buttery, toasted bread. It’s a flavorful and satisfying twist on a classic favorite that packs a delicious punch!
Credit: @nibblemethis

Craving a grilled cheese with a little more “oomph”? Let’s take some inspiration from a fan-favorite appetizer: jalapeño popper.

So, to make this recipe, you’ll need bite-sized jalapeños for a spicy kick, bacon strips for a salty and savory element, and plenty of sharp cheddar for a rich and tangy flavor. 

For the complete details and step-by-step guide, click here.

53. Grilled Cheese Casserole

Consider this a grilled cheese straight from paradise. It might seem like a crazy idea, but this recipe’s got everything you want in a comfort food and so much more!

Soft brioche slices are stuffed with melty American cheese and crispy bacon. Then, they’re soaked in a rich egg custard before being baked to golden-brown perfection.

To get the full recipe, click here.

Are You Ready to Get Cheesy?

With this list, you don’t have to stick to the same ol’ grilled cheese recipe day after day. You can jazz it up a bit, try something new, and discover interesting flavor combinations!

Featured image credit to @savorybitesrecipes.

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