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What To Serve With Grilled Cheese? 30 Best Side Dishes

Grilled cheese lovers, rejoice!

Today, we’re tackling one of the most pressing questions in the food world: what to serve with grilled cheese?

While this classic sandwich is undeniably delicious, adding the right side dish can take it from good to great.

Do you go for a simple side like tomato soup or something more complex like ratatouille?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a list of the 30 best side dishes to pair with your next grilled cheese creation.

Get ready to take your taste buds on a journey, and maybe even discover a new favorite dish or two. Let’s get cheesy!

Read Also: Grilled Cheese Wine Pairing – The Best Wines for Grilled Cheese

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Why Consider Serving Side Dishes with Grilled Cheese?

Variety is the spice of life

Let’s face it, eating the same thing every day can get pretty boring.

By serving different side dishes with your grilled cheese sandwich, you can mix things up and keep your taste buds on their toes.

Plus, trying new things is fun and exciting.

  • Complementary flavors and textures: When it comes to food, there’s nothing better than finding the perfect flavor and texture combination. By serving side dishes with your grilled cheese, you can find flavors and textures that complement the sandwich and make the meal even more delicious. It’s like a culinary match made in heaven.
  • Nutritional balance: While grilled cheese sandwiches may not be the healthiest option, serving side dishes with them can add some much-needed nutrition to your meal. Whether it’s a salad, roasted vegetables, or a fruit bowl, incorporating some healthy options can help balance out the indulgence of the sandwich.
  • Feeding a crowd: If you’re serving a group of people, having a variety of side dishes can help accommodate everyone’s tastes and preferences. Whether someone wants something light and fresh or something more substantial, having options can help ensure everyone is satisfied and happy.
  • Enhancing the meal experience: At the end of the day, food is not just about sustenance, it’s also about the experience. By serving side dishes with your grilled cheese, you can enhance the meal experience and make it more enjoyable. Whether it’s trying new flavors, mixing and matching, or simply indulging in your favorite comfort foods, having a variety of side dishes can make the meal more fun and memorable.

What To Serve With Grilled Cheese? 30 Best Side Dishes

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food, but they can be boring if served on their own.

Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious side dishes that can be paired with grilled cheese to create an amazing meal.

Here’s a list of 30 great side dishes that will go perfectly with your grilled cheese sandwich:

Soups

Tomato soup

When it comes to pairing soups with grilled cheese sandwiches, you want to choose something that complements the flavors and textures of the sandwich.

Here are five soup options that are sure to satisfy:

Tomato soup

The classic pairing of grilled cheese and tomato soup is a tried and true combination.

The sweetness of the tomato soup balances out the saltiness of the cheese, making for a delicious and comforting meal.

Broccoli cheddar soup

For a heartier option, try pairing your grilled cheese with a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup.

The creamy, cheesy soup is a perfect match for the gooey melted cheese inside the sandwich.

Minestrone soup

If you’re looking for a soup with a bit more substance, minestrone is a great choice.

Packed with vegetables and beans, this hearty soup complements the simplicity of a grilled cheese sandwich.

Butternut squash soup

For a slightly sweet and savory option, try pairing your grilled cheese with a bowl of butternut squash soup.

The smooth, velvety texture of the soup pairs well with the crispiness of the sandwich.

Chicken noodle soup

If you’re in the mood for something more savory, chicken noodle soup is a classic choice.

The salty broth and tender chunks of chicken complement the richness of the cheese and bread.

Salads

Caesar Salad

Are you one of those people who feel the need to add a salad to every meal? Well, we’ve got you covered.

Here are some salads that won’t make you feel like you’re missing out on your daily greens:

Caesar salad

Let’s face it, Caesar salad is the king of salads. With its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, it’s a perfect match for a gooey grilled cheese.

Plus, the romaine lettuce totally cancels out the cheese, right?

Caprese salad

If you’re looking for a lighter option, a Caprese salad is a great choice.

The fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella pair well with the buttery bread and cheese in the sandwich. It’s like a taste of Italy in every bite.

Greek salad

For a tangy and refreshing option, try pairing your grilled cheese with a Greek salad.

The feta cheese, olives, and cucumbers add a burst of flavor that cuts through the richness of the sandwich. It’s like a party in your mouth.

Spinach salad

If you’re trying to be healthy, but still want to indulge in a grilled cheese, a spinach salad is a good option.

The spinach adds some nutrition, while the bacon bits and hard-boiled eggs add some extra flavor. Just be sure to drown it in dressing to counteract the guilt of the sandwich.

Cobb salad

Last but not least, we have the Cobb salad.

With its mix of greens, veggies, and proteins, this salad is a meal in itself. Add a grilled cheese on the side, and you’ve got the perfect lunch or dinner. Who needs balance when you’ve got deliciousness?

Vegetable Sides

Roasted Mixed Vegetables
Source: diethood.com

You know what they say, “eat your veggies,” and we couldn’t agree more.

Here are some vegetable sides that will complement your grilled cheese sandwich and make you feel like you’re actually eating something healthy:

Roasted vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, asparagus)

Roasting vegetables is an easy way to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your meal.

Whether you’re roasting broccoli, carrots, or asparagus, the caramelized veggies add a delicious crunch that pairs well with the gooey cheese in the sandwich. Plus, you can pretend you’re being healthy while indulging in your sandwich.

Sweet potato fries

Who needs regular fries when you can have sweet potato fries?

The sweetness of the fries pairs well with the salty cheese in the sandwich. Plus, the orange color of the fries makes it look like you’re eating something nutritious, even if it’s covered in oil and salt.

Grilled corn on the cob

If you’re in the mood for something summery, try grilling some corn on the cob to go with your sandwich.

The sweetness of the corn complements the savory cheese and bread, making for a tasty and filling meal. Just make sure to floss after.

Baked beans

Baked beans may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of grilled cheese, but trust us, it works.

The smoky sweetness of the beans pairs well with the cheesy sandwich, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth. It’s like a backyard BBQ in every bite.

Coleslaw

Last but not least, we have coleslaw. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the crunchiness of the cabbage and the creaminess of the dressing add a nice contrast to the softness of the sandwich.

Plus, it’s a vegetable, so you can feel like you’re being healthy while you indulge in your guilty pleasure.

Breads

garlic bread

Let’s be real, the bread is just as important as the cheese in a grilled cheese sandwich.

Here are some bread options that will take your sandwich to the next level:

Garlic bread

Garlic bread makes everything better, and grilled cheese is no exception. The garlicky goodness of the bread pairs well with the cheesy sandwich, making for a mouthwatering meal.

Plus, the smell of garlic will keep everyone away, so you can enjoy your sandwich in peace.

Baguette slices

If you’re feeling fancy, try using baguette slices instead of regular bread. The crunchiness of the bread adds a nice contrast to the softness of the cheese, creating a texture explosion in your mouth.

Plus, you can pretend you’re in a French bistro instead of your kitchen.

Focaccia bread

For a more substantial option, try using focaccia bread for your grilled cheese sandwich. The chewy bread is perfect for soaking up the cheese, while the herbs and spices add an extra layer of flavor.

Just make sure to have some napkins on hand, as it can get messy.

Naan bread

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try using naan bread for your sandwich. The soft, pillowy texture of the bread is a perfect match for the gooey cheese, making for a unique and delicious meal. It’s like a taste of India in every bite.

Pita bread

Last but not least, we have pita bread. The pocket of the bread is perfect for holding all the cheesy goodness, while the chewiness of the bread adds a nice texture.

Plus, you can stuff some veggies in there to pretend you’re being healthy.

Chips and Dips

Slow Cooker Salsa
Source: therecipecritic.com

Let’s be real, sometimes a sandwich just isn’t enough. Here are some chips and dip options that will take your grilled cheese game to the next level:

Tortilla chips and guacamole

If you’re in the mood for something a little spicy, try pairing your grilled cheese with some tortilla chips and guacamole.

The creaminess of the guacamole pairs well with the gooey cheese, while the crunchiness of the chips adds some extra texture. Plus, you can pretend you’re at a Mexican restaurant instead of your kitchen.

Potato chips and French onion dip

For a classic option, try pairing your sandwich with some potato chips and French onion dip. The saltiness of the chips complements the cheesy sandwich, while the tanginess of the dip adds an extra layer of flavor.

Plus, you can double dip in the comfort of your own home.

Salsa and pita chips

If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, try pairing your sandwich with some salsa and pita chips. The freshness of the salsa cuts through the richness of the cheese, making for a well-balanced meal.

Plus, you can pretend you’re at a healthy Mexican restaurant instead of your kitchen.

Hummus and vegetables

If you’re trying to be healthy, but still want to indulge in a grilled cheese, try pairing it with some hummus and vegetables. The creaminess of the hummus pairs well with the cheese, while the veggies add some much-needed nutrition.

Just be sure to eat them before they go bad in the back of your fridge.

Queso dip and pretzels

Last but not least, we have queso dip and pretzels. The cheesiness of the dip pairs well with the sandwich, while the saltiness of the pretzels adds an extra layer of flavor.

Plus, you can pretend you’re at a sports bar instead of your kitchen.

Other Sides

Bacon Mac and Cheese

If you’re still hungry after all these options, here are some other sides that will take your grilled cheese sandwich to the next level:

Mac and cheese

If you’re feeling extra cheesy, try pairing your grilled cheese with a side of mac and cheese. The creaminess of the mac and cheese is a perfect match for the sandwich, making for a cheesy explosion in your mouth.

Plus, who needs portion control when you’re eating your favorite comfort foods?

Baked potato

For a more substantial option, try pairing your sandwich with a baked potato.

The starchiness of the potato complements the richness of the cheese, while the toppings add some extra flavor. Just be sure to load it up with butter and sour cream for maximum indulgence.

Fruit salad

If you’re trying to be healthy, try pairing your sandwich with a fruit salad. The sweetness of the fruit pairs well with the saltiness of the cheese, while the vitamins and minerals add some much-needed nutrition.

Plus, you can pretend you’re at a fancy brunch instead of your kitchen.

Pickles and olives

For a tangy and salty option, try pairing your sandwich with some pickles and olives. The sourness of the pickles and the saltiness of the olives cut through the richness of the cheese, making for a well-balanced meal.

Plus, you can pretend you’re at a fancy charcuterie board instead of your kitchen.

Chili

Last but not least, we have chili.

While it may not be the most obvious pairing, the warmth and spiciness of the chili complements the richness of the cheese, making for a comforting and filling meal.

Plus, you can load it up with cheese and sour cream for some extra indulgence. Who needs a separate meal when you can just dump everything in one bowl?

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks. 30 side dishes that will take your grilled cheese sandwich to the next level. Whether you’re feeling fancy or just want to indulge in your guilty pleasure, there’s something for everyone.

Remember to vary your side dishes to keep things interesting. Don’t be afraid to mix and match, and try out new flavor combinations. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite side dish.

And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun. Grilled cheese sandwiches are a timeless classic, and the perfect comfort food. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy your cheesy masterpiece.

Related:

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

What To Serve With Grilled Cheese (30 Best Sides)

Looking for some delicious and creative side dish ideas to serve with your grilled cheese sandwich? Look no further! Our article features 30 of the best side dishes to complement your gooey and cheesy sandwich, including soups, salads, vegetable sides, breads, chips and dips, and more.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 510 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Tomato soup
  • Broccoli cheddar soup
  • Minestrone soup
  • Butternut squash soup
  • Chicken noodle soup
  • Caesar salad
  • Caprese salad
  • Greek salad
  • Spinach salad
  • Cobb salad
  • Roasted vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, asparagus)
  • Sweet potato fries
  • Grilled corn on the cob
  • Baked beans
  • Coleslaw
  • Garlic bread
  • Baguette slices
  • Focaccia bread
  • Naan bread
  • Pita bread
  • Tortilla chips and guacamole
  • Potato chips and French onion dip
  • Salsa and pita chips
  • Hummus and vegetables
  • Queso dip and pretzels
  • Mac and cheese
  • Baked potato
  • Fruit salad
  • Pickles and olives
  • Chili

Instructions
 

  • Pick your favorite recipe from the article.
  • Organize your ingredients and utensils.
  • Follow the detailed instructions in the recipe to make your side dish.
  • Prepare and serve for delicious meal!
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Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.