Today is National Grilled Cheese Day. Source: Trust me.
And with that in mind, today is going to be one of those rare times where this blog actually helps people. Because last year my wife and I were tipped off on how to take a grilled cheese to the next level, and it did NOT disappoint.
Now like most people, for most of my life, when I made a grilled cheese I used butter on each side of the bread. I actually sprinkle on some Italian seasoning and garlic powder on each butter side as well. That’s not the part of this story that’s going to change your life, but it might change your afternoon.
Anyway about a year ago, we were watching some show on Food Network or PBS, and the host was making gourmet grilled cheese, but instead of using butter on each side, they used MAYO. ‘Huh,’ I said. ‘Huh,’ she said.
Well that night I had to give it a shot. So we got some bread and cheese and Hellman’s. I slathered each side of the bread with mayo, put on my Italian seasoning and garlic powder, and got it on the griddle. About 3-4 minutes later, we took our first bite of a grilled cheese made with mayo. I’m not exaggerating when I say I almost blacked out. It was a culinary moment that I’ll never forget. The CRISP is indescribable (at least to someone with a public school education). The FLAVOR flavory. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with a good ol’ fashioned grilled cheese made with butter, but this was next level.
Now like most adult-children, Linds and I are good for a grilled cheese night at least once every few months. We’ve never looked back. We use mayo every single time. If I had every ingredient for a grilled cheese and I had butter on hand but no mayo, I would go to the grocery store to get mayo. It’s that good.
In conclusion: Mayo>Butter when it comes to grilled cheese. You’re welcome.
PS: I had a few texters ask if Miracle Whip works the same way. I honestly have no idea. Not a Miracle Whip guy. I do not like the tangy zip. I would guess it’s similar, but not quite as good, mainly because the fat content is lower in Miracle Whip.
Double PS: One of these nights when you do a grilled cheese night, grab a loaf of HIGH quality brioche bread. Throw some bacon in there with your cheese too. You won’t regret it.
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