What to Serve with Grilled Cheese: 35+ Delicious Sides

Grilled cheese sandwiches, a timeless comfort food, are loved for their cheesy, buttery, and toasty goodness. Whether you prefer a simple grilled cheese or something more elaborate, finding the perfect side dish can elevate your meal to the next level. While tomato soup is a classic pairing, there’s a whole world of flavors and textures that complement this iconic sandwich.

This guide explores over 35 delicious options for What To Serve With Grilled Cheese, ranging from quick dips and zesty salads to hearty soups and sweet treats. Get ready to discover your new favorite pairings and transform your grilled cheese experience!

Collage of delicious side dishes for grilled cheese including tomato soup, pickles, french fries and fresh fruit.

Sauces and Dips to Elevate Your Grilled Cheese

Dipping your grilled cheese adds an extra layer of flavor and fun. These sauces and dips are perfect for taking your sandwich to the next level:

1. Pizza Sauce: A nod to the classic tomato soup pairing, pizza sauce offers a bolder, herb-infused tomato flavor. It’s especially fantastic if you’ve added pizza-inspired fillings like ham or Italian sausage to your grilled cheese. Pizza Sauce provides a tangy and savory dip that complements the richness of the cheese.

2. Hummus: Creamy hummus, especially dill pickle hummus, creates a surprising yet delightful contrast with grilled cheese. The tangy, herbaceous notes of dill pickle hummus cut through the richness of the cheese, offering a balanced and flavorful bite. Serve Hummus as a dip for the sandwich itself or alongside vegetables for a healthier side.

3. Santa Fe Ranch Dressing: For a zesty, Southwestern twist, Santa Fe Ranch is an excellent choice. This Greek yogurt-based dip is packed with taco-inspired spices, adding a cool and creamy counterpoint to the warm, cheesy sandwich.

4. Barbecue Sauce: Homemade Barbecue Sauce, naturally sweetened, brings a smoky and sweet flavor dimension to grilled cheese. Its bold taste and slightly sticky texture make it a fantastic dipping option, especially for grilled cheese with cheddar or smoked cheeses.

5. Tomato Jam: Move beyond ketchup and discover the sophisticated flavor of tomato jam. Tomato jam is a concentrated burst of sweet and savory tomato flavor, far more complex and nuanced than ketchup. It’s wonderful as a dip or even spread directly on your grilled cheese.

6. Applesauce: The combination of apple and cheese is a classic for a reason. Applesauce offers a sweet and slightly tart counterpoint to the savory grilled cheese. It can be used as a dip, spread inside the sandwich, or served as a side for a comforting and slightly unexpected pairing. Consider trying apple butter for a richer, spiced apple flavor.

Vegetable platter with Santa Fe Ranch dip, a flavorful and healthy dipping option for grilled cheese.

Garnishes to Enhance Your Grilled Cheese Experience

Simple garnishes can add freshness, flavor, and visual appeal to your grilled cheese plate:

7. Fresh Herbs: Elevate your grilled cheese with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Parsley, basil (especially with mozzarella), chives (with cheddar), dill (with havarti), or cilantro can all complement the cheese and add an aromatic touch. The right herbs enhance the overall flavor profile and add a pop of color.

8. Pickles: The tangy crunch of pickles is a classic companion to grilled cheese. Dill pickles are a go-to for many, but explore sweet pickles, pickled onions, beets, or carrots for varied flavors and textures. Pickled vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy sandwich.

9. Sliced Tomatoes: Fresh sliced tomatoes are a natural pairing with cheese. Their juicy, slightly acidic flavor brightens up the richness of the grilled cheese. Consider using heirloom tomatoes for even more flavor and visual appeal.

Grilled cheese sandwiches served with tomato soup, a timeless and comforting combination.

Finger Foods for a Fun and Casual Meal

Grilled cheese and finger foods are a match made in heaven, perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner:

10. French Fries or Potato Wedges: Crispy French Fries or potato wedges are a universally loved side dish. Their salty, satisfying crunch pairs perfectly with the gooey, cheesy grilled cheese. Baking fries or wedges offers a healthier alternative to frying.

11. Baked Sweet Plantains: For a unique and slightly sweet side, try Baked Sweet Plantains. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, their sweet and savory notes provide an interesting contrast to the grilled cheese.

12. Sweet Potato Fries: Similar to regular fries but with added sweetness and nutrients, sweet potato fries are a delicious and slightly healthier option. Use sweet potatoes in your favorite baked fries recipe for a vibrant and flavorful side.

13. Onion Rings: Another classic fried favorite, onion rings bring a satisfying crunch and savory-sweet onion flavor. For a lighter version, explore baked onion ring recipes.

14. Fresh Vegetables (Crudité): Balance the richness of grilled cheese with a platter of fresh vegetables. Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and broccoli florets offer a healthy and refreshing crunch. Serve with a dip like Cashew Queso Dip or hummus to encourage veggie consumption.

Baked sweet plantains, a unique and naturally sweet side dish option for grilled cheese.

Salads for a Balanced and Refreshing Meal

Pairing grilled cheese with a salad creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal, offering a lighter and fresher element:

15. Caesar Salad: The creamy, tangy dressing and crisp romaine lettuce of a Caesar salad provide a classic and satisfying contrast to the warm grilled cheese. The Parmesan cheese in the salad also complements the cheesy sandwich.

16. Spinach Salad: A vibrant Spinach Salad with berries, nuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette offers a sweet, tart, and crunchy counterpoint to grilled cheese. The light dressing keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.

17. Potato Salad: For a heartier salad option, potato salad is a comforting and flavorful choice. Try a Greek Yogurt Potato Salad for a lighter twist that still delivers creamy satisfaction.

18. Mediterranean Salad: Packed with crunchy vegetables, chickpeas, and feta cheese, a Mediterranean Salad offers a refreshing and flavorful side. The salty feta and tangy dressing cut through the richness of the grilled cheese.

19. Pasta Salad: Similar to potato salad, pasta salad or macaroni salad provides a satisfying and filling side dish. Choose a pasta salad with plenty of vegetables for added nutrients and texture.

20. Santa Fe Salad: Another Southwestern-inspired option, Santa Fe Salad typically includes black beans, corn, avocado, and a zesty dressing. It’s a flavorful and substantial salad that pairs well with grilled cheese.

21. Coleslaw: Whether you prefer classic coleslaw, Chimichurri Slaw, or Lemon Tahini Slaw, coleslaw offers a cool and crunchy contrast to the warm sandwich. The tangy dressing and crisp cabbage provide a refreshing element.

22. Broccoli Salad: Surprisingly delicious with grilled cheese, broccoli salad is packed with flavor and texture. The creamy dressing, crunchy broccoli, and often bacon or cheese bits create a satisfying and flavorful side.

Greek yogurt potato salad, a lighter and healthier take on a classic side dish for grilled cheese.

Soups: The Ultimate Comfort Food Pairing

Soup and grilled cheese is a classic combination for a reason. These soups enhance the comforting and cozy nature of a grilled cheese meal:

23. Tomato Soup: The quintessential pairing! Tomato Soup and grilled cheese are a match made in comfort food heaven. The creamy, slightly acidic tomato soup complements the rich, cheesy sandwich perfectly.

24. Pumpkin Soup: Especially enjoyable during fall, Pumpkin Soup offers a warm, slightly sweet, and savory flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled cheese. Consider a grilled cheese with autumn-inspired cheeses like Gouda for an even more seasonal pairing.

25. Borscht: This hearty beet soup, Borscht, is packed with vegetables and has a tangy tomato base. Its robust flavor and comforting warmth make it a great companion to grilled cheese, especially on a cold day.

26. Chicken Noodle Soup: Another classic comfort food, chicken noodle soup provides a light and broth-y counterpoint to the richness of grilled cheese. It’s a particularly soothing combination when you’re feeling under the weather.

27. Potato Soup: Creamy and comforting, Potato Soup is a hearty side that complements grilled cheese without being too heavy. Its mild flavor allows the grilled cheese to still shine.

Creamy potato soup topped with green onions, cheddar cheese and bacon, a comforting and flavorful side for grilled cheese.

Vegetables for a Healthy and Balanced Plate

Add some healthy vegetables to your grilled cheese meal with these delicious and easy options:

28. Roasted Carrots and Asparagus: Roasted Carrots and Asparagus are a simple and versatile side dish that pairs with almost anything. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and asparagus, creating a flavorful and nutritious side.

29. Sautéed Green Beans: Quick and easy, Sautéed Green Beans are a great way to add a vibrant green vegetable to your plate. Using frozen green beans makes this side dish even more convenient.

30. Onion Roasted Potatoes: If you love fries with grilled cheese, you’ll also love Onion Roasted Potatoes. Roasting potatoes with onions brings out their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful and satisfying side.

Sautéed frozen green beans, a quick, easy, and healthy vegetable side dish for grilled cheese.

Sweet Treats to Finish Your Grilled Cheese Meal

For those who enjoy a sweet and savory combination, or simply want a light dessert after their grilled cheese, these sweet options are worth considering:

31. Fresh Fruit: Keep it simple and healthy with a side of fresh fruit. Sliced apples, strawberries, cherries, grapes, or peaches all provide a refreshing and naturally sweet finish to your meal. Consider adding a dip like chocolate hummus for an extra touch.

32. Apple Nachos: A fun and interactive dessert, Apple Nachos are thinly sliced apples drizzled with nut butter, granola, and seeds. They offer a satisfying crunch and sweetness without being overly heavy.

33. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies are always a crowd-pleaser. Their familiar sweetness and comforting texture make them a simple yet delightful dessert option after grilled cheese.

34. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad is a perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note. Combine your favorite seasonal fruits for a colorful and healthy dessert.

35. Rice Paper Candy Straws: For a unique and playful sweet treat, try homemade Rice Paper Candy Straws. These fruity and chewy candies offer a fun and unexpected dessert option.

Chocolate hummus served with fresh fruit and crackers, a sweet and healthy dessert option to pair with grilled cheese.

With over 35 delicious options, you’re sure to find the perfect side dish to serve with your grilled cheese. From savory soups and salads to sweet treats and dips, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with these pairings and discover your own favorite combinations for the ultimate grilled cheese experience!

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