What Goes With Grilled Cheese? 8 Top Picks in 2024

Grilled cheese isn’t just a sandwich – it’s a classic that brings comfort in every bite. With its golden crust and gooey center, it’s already great on its own. Yet, the right pairing can transform it into an even more delicious meal!

Whether you’re in the mood for a tasty soup, a refreshing slaw, or something unexpected, there’s no shortage of ways to improve the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Let’s explore some delicious options to serve alongside your grilled cheese for a meal that’s satisfying and full of flavor.

1. Crunchy Baked Sweet Potato Fries With Chipotle Lime Aioli

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat the oven to 425 °F (220 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized fries.

3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are crispy and golden brown.

6. While the fries bake, prepare the chipotle lime aioli. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, and chipotle pepper powder.

7. Once the fries are done, transfer them to a cooling rack for a few minutes to maintain crispiness.

8. Serve the fries with a generous side of chipotle lime aioli for dipping. Enjoy!

Overview 🔍

These Crunchy Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Lime Aioli are a delicious hot side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled cheese. The fries are seasoned with a mix of smoked paprika and garlic powder and then baked until they achieve the perfect crispy texture. The sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of melted cheese.

The chipotle lime aioli is a simple yet flavorful dip that takes these fries to the next level. With just a few ingredients, it adds a creamy, smoky, tangy kick that wonderfully complements the fries. 

2. Savory Cream of Mushroom Soup With Herb-Infused Butter

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large heavy saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped shallots and sauté for about 2 minutes, until softened.

3. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing them to release their moisture and reduce in size.

4. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

5. Gradually pour in the vegetable stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and bring to a simmer.

6. Add the thyme leaves, smoked sea salt, and white pepper, stirring to incorporate. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

7. Remove from heat and blend the soup using an immersion blender or in batches with a regular blender until smooth.

8. Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream and dry vermouth, if using.

9. Once heated through, melt in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and whisk until the soup is velvety smooth.

10. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Overview 🔍

This is a rich and indulgent dish that makes a great accompaniment to grilled cheese. The soup’s creamy texture complements the crispy, melty sandwich, creating the perfect balance of flavors. The earthy blend of cremini and shiitake mushrooms adds depth, while the subtle touch of thyme and dry vermouth enhances the soup’s savory profile.

Topped with a drizzle of herb-infused butter, this soup becomes a perfect balance of richness and warmth. It’s ideal for cozy dinners, lunches, or as a luxurious starter. Garnished with fresh parsley, the soup is delicious and visually inviting, making it a perfect addition to grilled cheese, a casual meal, or any special occasion.

3. Simple & Nutritious Mixed Fruit Salad

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Wash and prepare all the fruit: hull the strawberries, peel and dice the kiwi and banana, and cut the pineapple, watermelon, and strawberries into bite-sized pieces.

2. Combine all the fruit in a large mixing bowl.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, and mint leaves.

4. Drizzle the honey-lime mixture over the fruit and gently toss to combine.

5. Serve immediately or chill for up to an hour before serving.

Overview 🔍

This refreshing and vibrant dish pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese. The sweet and juicy fruits and the savory richness of the sandwich create a balanced and satisfying meal. The burst of flavors from the strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, watermelon, and kiwi refreshes the palate, while the light honey-lime dressing adds a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the grilled bread and cheese.

Whether served as a healthy snack, a side dish, or a light dessert, it’s a great way to enjoy a variety of fruits in one bowl. Plus, it’s quick to make, taking only about 15 minutes.

4. Truffle Grilled Cheese With Tomato Soup

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat a medium pot over medium heat, and add olive oil. Sauté diced garlic and green onion until fragrant (2-3 minutes).

2. Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, vegetable base, and dried basil. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Stir in sour cream, and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm on low heat.

4. Heat a medium pan and brush sourdough bread with olive oil. Place cheese slices between bread and grill until golden brown and cheese melts (3-4 minutes per side).

5. Serve grilled cheese with soup and drizzle truffle oil over the sandwich.

Overview 🔍

The Truffle Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup is one of my favorite gourmet options. The creamy, melty Swiss and cheddar cheeses are elevated with the rich aroma of truffle oil, while the homemade tomato soup is infused with fresh basil and enhanced with a touch of sour cream for a velvety finish.

This dish brings together the perfect balance of flavors: the savory grilled cheese and the tangy soup, creating a comforting and sophisticated meal. It's quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for a cozy night in or a simple but impressive meal for guests.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches With Tomato Jam

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat oven to 400 °F. Toss broccoli with oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. In a bowl or saucepan, combine tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, and salt. Microwave or simmer for 10-12 minutes until jam thickens.

3. Butter ciabatta rolls. Heat a large skillet over medium and cook bread until golden brown, 3-4 minutes per side.

4. Layer cheeses between bread slices and cook in skillet until melted, about 2-3 minutes per side.

5. Serve grilled cheese with tomato jam and roasted broccoli.

Overview 🔍

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Jam offer a refined twist on a classic comfort dish. The sweet and tangy tomato jam adds a vibrant flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich, melty blend of cheddar-jack and fontina cheeses. Roasted broccoli adds a healthy, crunchy side that balances the indulgence of the grilled cheese. 

This recipe brings together simple ingredients with gourmet results. It’s the perfect example of how meal delivery services like Dinnerly can transform everyday meals into something special with minimal effort. A comforting yet elevated dish, it’s ideal for a quiet meal for 2 or a dish the whole family can enjoy.

6. Vibrant Kale Salad With Avocado & Honey Dijon Dressing

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Combine kale, carrots, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion in a mixing bowl.

2. Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl.

3. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss to coat evenly.

4. Top with avocado slices and sunflower seeds before serving.

Overview 🔍

This nutritious side transforms the grilled cheese into more than just a sandwich. The crisp, earthy kale provides a great contrast to the warm, savory sandwich, while the creamy avocado and crunchy sunflower seeds add texture and richness. The sweet and tangy honey Dijon dressing brings a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the grilled cheese, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.

This salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping. With a balance of fresh vegetables and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

7. Crispy Crunch Coleslaw With Zesty Lime Dressing

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, and green onions in a large mixing bowl.

2. Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl.

3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.

4. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

Overview 🔍

This side goes really well with grilled cheese. The crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and bell pepper offer a satisfying crunch, while the tangy lime dressing adds a burst of flavor that balances the richness of the sandwich. The sesame seeds provide an extra crunch, making it a lively complement to the savory grilled cheese. It's also really quick to prepare!

8. Crisp & Tangy Homemade Dill Pickles

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Slice the cucumbers into spears or rounds, depending on your preference.

2. In a large saucepan, combine water, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and coarse sea salt. Bring to a boil, stirring until the salt dissolves.

3. Place garlic, dill seeds, red pepper flakes, and fresh dill sprigs into the mason jars.

4. Pack the cucumbers tightly into the jars.

5. Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top of each jar.

6. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature.

7. Refrigerate the pickles for at least one week before enjoying.

Overview 🔍

These Crisp & Tangy Homemade Dill Pickles are the ideal complements to a grilled cheese sandwich. The pickles' sharp, tangy flavor cuts through the cheese's richness, creating a refreshing balance. Their satisfying crunch pairs perfectly with the soft, toasted bread, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor to each bite.

The pickling process only takes 15 minutes, but they need to sit for a week to develop full flavor. Once ready, these tangy homemade pickles are a great way to enjoy the taste of summer all year long.

FAQ

What goes well with a grilled cheese sandwich?

Many things go well with grilled cheese! For instance, the Crisp & Tangy Homemade Dill Pickles are a fantastic pairing for a grilled cheese sandwich. The briny, tart flavor of the pickles cuts through the richness of the melted cheese, providing a refreshing contrast. Their crunch also complements the grilled cheese's soft buttery bread, making each bite more satisfying.

The tanginess of the pickles adds a zing that enhances the overall flavor profile. This combination adds texture and a balance of flavors that elevate the grilled cheese experience, making it a classic and irresistible duo.

Is grilled cheese a snack or a meal?

Grilled cheese can easily be both a snack and a meal, depending on how it’s served. When paired with a hearty side like the Vibrant Kale Salad with Avocado and Honey Dijon Dressing, it transforms into a satisfying meal. The salad’s freshness and creamy avocado balance the richness of the grilled cheese, making it feel more substantial.

On its own, a grilled cheese sandwich is often considered a snack, but adding sides like a vibrant salad or soup can elevate it to a full meal. These additions make it hearty enough for lunch or dinner, offering variety in every bite.

What to serve with sandwiches besides chips?

For a refreshing side, try serving your grilled cheese sandwiches with sweet tomato jam and roasted broccoli. The roasted broccoli provides a healthy, crispy element, while the sweet tomato jam adds a tangy and flavorful touch. This pairing offers a satisfying contrast to the richness of the sandwich and makes the meal more complete.

The roasted broccoli is a great source of nutrients, while the sweet tomato jam adds a burst of flavor. Together, they offer a balanced and filling meal that elevates the simple grilled cheese sandwich to a whole new level.

What is the most common condiment for grilled cheese?

In the US, the most common condiment for a grilled cheese sandwich is ketchup – but this could certainly differ based on where you live. Its sweet and tangy flavor perfectly complements the savory, melted cheese and buttery bread. Many enjoy dipping their grilled cheese in ketchup to add an extra layer of flavor.

But you don’t have to use ketchup! For example, the chipotle lime aioli from the Crunchy Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Lime Aioli can easily be used to dip both your sandwiches and the sweet potato fries!