The month of April brings many things- new blooms, POLLEN, spring break, did we mention pollen? Also, it’s National Grilled Cheese Month.
Did you know that food historians consider toasted bread and cheese to be an ancient dish? However, it didn’t look like the sandwich we know and love today. The more recent grilled cheese sandwich that’s loved across America is less than 100 years old and is a uniquely American creation.
In honor of this tasty month, here are some easy recipes to help you celebrate.
Classic Grilled Cheese
Let’s start with the original. Heat a little bit of salted butter on a cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced cheese to two pieces of bread and gently press it into the skillet. Cook until it’s golden on the bottom, 3-5 minutes. Flip the sandwich and add more butter to the pan if needed.
Bacon and Tomato Grilled Cheese
Follow the steps for the Classic, but add 3 slices of crispy bacon and 1 slice of tomato between the cheese.
Grilled Cheese Fingers
This one is perfect for the littles. Make a classic grilled cheese and cut off the crust, then cut the sandwich into strips for them to grab and snack on quickly.
Garlic Ham and Cheese
Instead of regular bread, prepare 2 slices of thick frozen garlic bread. Add Monterrey jack cheese and ham, then cook in a skillet like a classic sandwich.
Potato Chip Grilled Cheese
Perfect for those summer cookouts coming up. Spread yellow mustard onto 1 slice of bread and top with 2 slices of American cheese and a few potato chips. Add the other slice of bread and cook in a skillet until golden brown.
Breakfast Grilled Cheese
Grab two thawed toaster waffles instead of regular bread for this one. Add a slice of cheddar cheese, a few slices of crispy bacon and another slice of cheddar on top. Add a cooked egg for some extra protein. Cook in the skillet until golden brown and dip in maple syrup for a sweet surprise.
Blue Cheese and Onion Sandwich
For the more adventurous food tester, take 2 slices of marble rye bread and add 1 slice of muenster and soft blue cheese on each piece. Top with caramelized onions, another slice of muenster and cook until golden.
