5 Ways To Elevate Animal Style Grilled Cheese
For many, the combination of melted cheese between two slices of bread is the ultimate comfort food. However, some take it to the next level by adding savory meats, sweet spreads, and crunchy vegetables. The animal style grilled cheese is a creative twist on the classic grilled cheese, adding the richness of Thousand Island dressing and the crunch of grilled onions and pickles. If you're looking to elevate this already incredible sandwich, here are five ways to do so.
From Basic to Brilliant: Understanding the Animal Style Grilled Cheese
The animal style grilled cheese is a popular variation of the classic grilled cheese sandwich that originated on the West Coast. It typically consists of a grilled cheese sandwich filled with Thousand Island dressing, grilled onions, and pickles. The combination of creamy cheese, tangy dressing, and crunchy vegetables creates a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting.
1. Add Some Heat with Jalapeños or Hot Sauce
For those who enjoy a little spice, adding jalapeños or hot sauce can elevate the animal style grilled cheese to new heights. The heat from the peppers or hot sauce complements the richness of the cheese and the tanginess of the Thousand Island dressing, creating a flavor profile that is both spicy and savory.
- Try adding sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the sandwich for an extra kick.
- Alternatively, add a few dashes of hot sauce, such as sriracha or hot sauce of your choice, to the Thousand Island dressing for an added layer of heat.
The Benefits of Adding Heat to Your Animal Style Grilled Cheese
- Adds a new dimension of flavor to the sandwich
- Complements the richness of the cheese and the tanginess of the dressing
- Can help to balance out the flavors in the sandwich
2. Get Creative with the Cheese
While the classic animal style grilled cheese typically uses a single type of cheese, such as American or cheddar, experimenting with different types of cheese can add a new level of complexity to the sandwich. Try combining different types of cheese, such as gouda and parmesan, or using a stronger cheese, such as blue cheese or goat cheese.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
- Try combining a mild cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, with a stronger cheese, such as blue cheese or goat cheese.
The Benefits of Using Different Types of Cheese
- Adds a new level of complexity to the sandwich
- Can complement or contrast with the other flavors in the sandwich
- Can add a new texture to the sandwich
3. Add Some Crunch with Fresh Vegetables
In addition to the crunchy grilled onions and pickles, adding some fresh vegetables can add a new texture and flavor to the sandwich. Try adding some sliced cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers to the sandwich for a refreshing twist.
- Try adding some sliced cucumbers or carrots to the sandwich for a refreshing crunch.
- Alternatively, add some sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the sandwich for a sweet and crunchy texture.
The Benefits of Adding Fresh Vegetables
- Adds a new texture to the sandwich
- Can complement or contrast with the other flavors in the sandwich
- Can add a refreshing twist to the sandwich
4. Add Some Meat to Make it a Meal
While the animal style grilled cheese is a satisfying sandwich on its own, adding some meat can make it a more substantial meal. Try adding some sliced ham, turkey, or roast beef to the sandwich for a heartier option.
- Try adding some sliced ham or turkey to the sandwich for a classic combination.
- Alternatively, add some sliced roast beef or pastrami to the sandwich for a more substantial option.
The Benefits of Adding Meat
- Makes the sandwich more substantial and filling
- Can complement or contrast with the other flavors in the sandwich
- Can add a new texture to the sandwich
5. Get Creative with the Bread
While the classic animal style grilled cheese typically uses a plain white bread, experimenting with different types of bread can add a new level of complexity to the sandwich. Try using a sourdough bread, a ciabatta bread, or a baguette for a more rustic option.
- Experiment with different types of bread to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
- Try using a sourdough bread or a ciabatta bread for a more rustic option.
The Benefits of Using Different Types of Bread
- Adds a new level of complexity to the sandwich
- Can complement or contrast with the other flavors in the sandwich
- Can add a new texture to the sandwich
What is an animal style grilled cheese?
+An animal style grilled cheese is a variation of the classic grilled cheese sandwich that typically includes Thousand Island dressing, grilled onions, and pickles.
How can I elevate my animal style grilled cheese?
+There are several ways to elevate your animal style grilled cheese, including adding different types of cheese, meats, and vegetables, as well as experimenting with different types of bread.
What are some popular variations of the animal style grilled cheese?
+Some popular variations of the animal style grilled cheese include adding jalapeños or hot sauce, using different types of cheese, and adding meats such as ham or turkey.