10 Elevated Takes on a Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwiches That You Should Try Now

Elemental in its construction and primal in its comfort, a grilled cheese is a sandwich that's as easy to make as it is to love. The American-single-on-white version, with its soft melted cheese, golden-brown crust, and irresistible buttery warmth, is the standard. Adored by little ones and adults alike, the grilled cheese sandwich, as we now know it, can be traced back to the 1920s, when both sliced bread and processed cheese were invented. Yet despite its humble roots, grilled cheese knows how to take a sophisticated turn.

Elevated renditions of grilled cheese sandwiches include everything from fresh ingredients, such as broccoli and pears, to spreads, like onion jam and whole-grain mustard. Try a fresh take on this ultra-classic sandwich with one of our inventive recipes, like the Grilled Taleggio Sandwich with Tomato and Basil that's pictured here. Not only does it include thinly-sliced Taleggio, but this grilled cheese sandwich also gets a finishing touch with fresh basil and slices of heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes. The result is a refined, juicy, gooey take on grilled cheese you are sure to enjoy. Looking for other sandwiches to try? We have options for meat-lovers, like bacon- and turkey- grilled cheeses, and even one with a fried egg. No matter which route you go, the results are sure to be delicious.

Ahead, we've gathered our most elevated recipes that use the iconic sandwich as a blank canvas for all kinds of mouthwateringly delicious meals. Try these sophisticated twists on the usual grilled cheese next time a craving strikes.