The Sweet Crisp Fruit That Turns Grilled Cheese Into A Gourmet Experience

Whether you're four or forty, there's nothing quite as comforting and easy as a grilled cheese sandwich. You don't really need to mess with the cheese-only formula to get a tasty, salty treat, and there are plenty of mistakes you can make with grilled cheese. However, you can still get fancy with it for exciting new flavor combinations. A simple and delicious way to do that is by adding a pop of fruit sweetness, specifically with apple slices.

Cheese and apple may sound like an odd combination, but the two are a match made in heaven, especially when things get melty. It's easy to test out for yourself if you're not convinced. Simply slice an apple of your choice very thin, then put it in with the cheese before you place the sandwich over the heat. Sharp cheddar is a good option for this if you're not sure which cheese to pick. Remember to butter both sides of your bread before putting it in the pan to say goodbye to soggy grilled cheeses. Then simply slice it, enjoy a picture-perfect cheese pull, and chow down on this unusual but delectable fusion. The tart fruitiness of apple paired with the tangy nuttiness of cheese creates a flavor that will have you seeing colors in your head like Remy from Ratatouille.

Most charcuterie boards feature dried or fresh fruits with cheese, so it's no surprise that a slice of apple goes so well with something like cheddar or Havarti. But why exactly are they so complementary? At its core, it has to do with contrasting textures and flavors. When you put salt with sweet, or creamy with acidic, you'll generally get a balance that our palates find pleasant. The crunch of the apple with the soft stretch of cheese keeps your tongue entertained, while its tart juiciness cuts through the richness for a more balanced profile.

More than that, there are literally thousands of different apples for you to try out. Some are softer and sweeter, others are sour and crunchy. You just need to check for signs that your apple is ripe before using it. With so many apple and cheese varieties, you're sure to find one that's right for you. You can even adjust to dietary restrictions with vegan cheese or gluten-free bread, should you desire.

Apple isn't the only thing that can elevate your cheese-grilling experience. To get a better, crispy golden-brown exterior, swap butter for a very thin layer of mayo spread on the bread's exterior. Then just make sure the pan is the right temperature for your grilled cheese, and heat as usual. If you don't like mayonnaise, don't worry — it creates a great texture but no noticeable flavor.

As far as things to put inside, there are tons of possibilities. Bacon and brie are an amazing combo, and mozzarella with basil and tomato gives you a delicious caprese sandwich. Fruit jam or jelly makes the sandwich feel fancy with a sweet and savory flavor. Try different types of cheese in combinations or on their own. Blue cheese, Gravenstein apple slices, and sharp cheddar create a bold, unforgettable experience.

If you want a sauce pairing, look into drizzling some balsamic glaze over the top at the end for an Italian vibe. A dash of sriracha on the bread can also add a spicy kick that makes the whole dish more powerful. For a playful twist, try dipping your grilled cheese in ketchup. This flavor combo makes sense when you consider that grilled cheese and tomato soup are the most hailed classic pair, and that vinegar in ketchup adds a little extra acid to the rich cheese. Don't be afraid to get experimental with your additions and pairings — melted cheese and bread can go with just about anything.