Grilled cheese sandwiches may seem simple, but the type of cheese you use can completely transform the experience. The key factors? Flavor and meltability. Some cheeses create that perfect stretchy, gooey texture, while others bring bold, savory flavors. Choosing the right cheese makes all the difference, ensuring every bite is rich, melty, and satisfying.

Let’s explore the best cheeses that take your grilled cheese game to the next level.

Best Cheeses for a Perfectly Melted Grilled Cheese

1. Pleasant Ridge Reserve

This award-winning alpine-style cheese has a deep, savory flavor that adds an extra layer of richness to any sandwich. It has hints of nuttiness and a depth that pairs well with caramelized onions or a simple slice of tomato.

2. Marieke Gouda

Instagram | mariekegouda | For a creamy and flavorful cheese with good melting properties, try Marieke Gouda.

Dutch-style Gouda is known for its creamy texture and variety of flavors. Younger goudas melt better than aged ones, making them ideal for grilled cheese. Try a smoked or cumin-infused Gouda for an added punch of flavor.

3. Red Rock Cheddar

This unique cheese blends the sharpness of cheddar with blue cheese veins, creating a tangy and complex taste. It melts well and pairs exceptionally with sweet or savory additions like fig jam or crispy bacon.

4. Fresh Mozzarella

Mozzarella isn’t just for pizza—it makes an amazing grilled cheese thanks to its gooey, stretchy texture. Grating fresh mozzarella helps it melt evenly, and it tastes incredible when paired with pesto or sun-dried tomatoes.

5. Grand Cru

A Wisconsin-made Swiss-style cheese, Grand Cru has a bold and nutty taste. It comes in different age varieties, with younger versions being milder and smoother for melting.

6. Bacon Cheddar

Everything’s better with bacon, including grilled cheese. This cheddar variety blends smoky bacon flavors directly into the cheese, making it a no-fuss way to add that irresistible savory kick.

7. Butterkäse

A German-style cheese, Butterkäse (meaning “butter cheese”) is mild, creamy, and melts effortlessly. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a softer, buttery texture in their grilled cheese sandwiches. Adding a touch of honey or mustard enhances its flavor even more.

8. Cheddar Gruyère Blend

Blending cheddar with Gruyère creates a cheese that offers both a sharp bite and a smooth melt. This pre-mixed option is a foolproof way to get the best of both worlds without having to mix cheeses yourself.

9. Garlic and Herb BellaVitano

This cheese has flavors infused into the rind rather than throughout, allowing you to enjoy its creamy interior with just the right touch of garlic and herbs. It pairs beautifully with rustic bread and a drizzle of olive oil.

10. Colby

Instagram | cheesepeopleofgr | For a classic grilled cheese, Colby’s smooth texture and mild, sweet flavor make it a perfect pick.

Smoother and milder than cheddar, Colby has a slightly sweet, creamy taste that makes it a fantastic melting cheese. It’s a great option for those who love a classic, comforting grilled cheese.

Tips for Making the Perfect Grilled Cheese

1. Grate Your Cheese – Shredding the cheese helps it melt evenly and quickly, preventing the bread from overcooking before the cheese is fully melted.
2. Use the Right Bread – A good grilled cheese needs sturdy bread that can hold up to the melting cheese without getting soggy. Sourdough or a crusty white bread works best.
3. Butter for Crispy Perfection – Using salted butter on the bread adds extra flavor and helps create that golden, crispy crust.
4. Steam for an Even Melt – If the bread is browning too fast before the cheese melts, add a tiny splash of water to the pan and cover it for a few seconds. This traps steam and ensures the cheese melts fully.
5. Enhance with Extras – While cheese is the star, adding ingredients like caramelized onions, jam, mustard, or herbs can take your sandwich to the next level.

A grilled cheese sandwich can be as simple or as gourmet as you want. With the right cheese and a few expert techniques, you can create a melty, flavorful masterpiece every time.