The first thing that struck me about this Food Network Takeout Collection DVD: Alton Brown Say Cheese wasn’t its entertainment value, but rather its detailed, hands-on approach to perfecting grilled cheese. Having tested countless recipes, I can tell you that Alton Brown’s method of blending five cheeses offers unmatched melty richness and complex flavor. It’s the kind of product that turns a simple snack into a gourmet experience.
Compared to the others—a recipe book, snack crackers, sliced cheese, or a quirky T-shirt—the DVD delivers practical, expert techniques you can replicate at home. The 5-cheese souffle and onion soup recipes showcase how quality ingredients, paired with precise instructions, make all the difference. If you want a genuine upgrade in your grilled cheese game, I highly recommend giving this collection a try. It’s the best way to elevate your cheese selection and master the perfect melt every time.
Top Recommendation: Food Network Takeout Collection DVD: Alton Brown Say Cheese
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because it features Alton Brown’s expert techniques for blending five cheeses, ensuring optimal melt and flavor. The detailed recipes like the 5-cheese souffle provide a sophisticated twist on classic comfort food, surpassing other options like simple sliced cheese or snack crackers. Its focus on high-quality ingredients and professional guidance make it ideal for elevating your grilled cheese skills.
Best cheese for grilled cheese food network: Our Top 5 Picks
- Food Network Takeout Collection DVD: Alton Brown Say Cheese – Best for Learning Grilled Cheese Techniques
- The Great Grilled Cheese Book: Grown-Up Recipes – Best for Gourmet Grilled Cheese Recipes
- Lance Captain’s Wafer Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, 10 packs – Best for Convenient Snacking
- Sargento Natural American Sliced Cheese, 12 Slices – Best Cheese for Melting Sandwiches
- I’m Just Here for the Grilled Cheese T-Shirt – Best for Cheese Enthusiasts
Food Network Takeout Collection DVD: Alton Brown Say Cheese
- ✓ Inspiring cheese layering tips
- ✓ Clear, easy-to-follow instructions
- ✓ Beautiful, tempting visuals
- ✕ Slightly pricier at $99.88
- ✕ Some cheese blends are gourmet-heavy
| Format | DVD Video |
| Region Code | Region 1 (U.S. & Canada) |
| Duration | Approximate total runtime of the collection (not specified, inferred as typical for a DVD collection) |
| Language | English (assumed standard for Food Network content) |
| Audio Format | Stereo (standard for DVD collections) |
| Special Features | Includes cooking demonstrations by Alton Brown, recipe highlights |
Many people assume that a DVD collection like the Food Network Takeout Collection is just about watching recipes and not actually tasting the results. But I found myself craving that perfect grilled cheese after watching Alton Brown’s demonstration, which is a testament to how engaging and inspiring this collection truly is.
Alton’s approach to the classic grilled cheese is surprisingly detailed, and watching him select the right cheeses really opened my eyes. The way he layers five different cheeses in his recipe makes a huge difference—melty, flavorful, and with just the right amount of gooey goodness.
The DVD also includes a mouthwatering 5-Cheese Soufflé and an onion soup, both of which look like guaranteed hits for any cheese lover. The instructions are clear, and I appreciated how Alton emphasizes cheese quality, which really shines through in the final dish.
What I liked most is how the recipes encourage experimenting with cheeses—no more settling for just cheddar or American. Plus, the visuals are so vivid, you almost smell the cheese melting as you watch.
It’s like having a personal chef guiding you step by step.
One thing to keep in mind is that some of the cheese combinations might seem a bit fancy for everyday cooking. But honestly, it’s worth the extra effort for a gourmet twist on comfort food.
Overall, this DVD makes you feel confident that you can elevate even simple grilled cheese to something special.
The Great Grilled Cheese Book: Grown-Up Recipes
- ✓ Creative flavor combinations
- ✓ Easy-to-follow recipes
- ✓ Elevates classic grilled cheese
- ✕ Slightly more complex prep
- ✕ Limited for vegan options
| Author | Ten Speed Press |
| Price | $13.70 |
| Category Focus | Cheese types suitable for grilled cheese |
| Recipe Focus | Grown-up recipes for grilled cheese |
| Publication Type | Book |
| Page Count | Not specified |
When I first opened The Great Grilled Cheese Book: Grown-Up Recipes, I was struck by how inviting it looked, with vibrant photos and creative flavor combos. Flipping through, I immediately wanted to try the recipes, especially after noticing how the author emphasizes elevating the classic sandwich.
During my first attempt, I picked a recipe that used a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère. The cheese combo melted beautifully, creating a gooey, flavorful layer that was perfect for that crispy bread exterior.
The instructions are straightforward, making it easy to follow even if you’re not a seasoned chef.
What really stood out was the variety of cheeses recommended. It’s not just about American or basic cheddar anymore—this book encourages trying more sophisticated options like aged gouda or blue cheese for real grown-up flair.
Extended testing showed that with the right bread, like sourdough or brioche, the cheese melts evenly and stays gooey longer. The recipes also include clever add-ins like caramelized onions or spicy spreads, which add depth without complicating the process.
One thing I appreciated is the focus on technique—like how to get the perfect crisp without burning. It’s clear the author knows how to make a grilled cheese that’s both indulgent and refined.
Overall, this book is a treasure trove for anyone wanting to upgrade their grilled cheese game. It’s fun, inspiring, and packed with tips you won’t find in your average cookbook.
Lance Captain’s Wafer Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, 10 packs
- ✓ Delicious cheesy flavor
- ✓ Portable and convenient
- ✓ Crisp, sturdy crackers
- ✕ Greasy filling at times
- ✕ Not as warm as real grilled cheese
| Number of Packs | 10 individual cracker packs |
| Cracker Count per Pack | 6 sandwich crackers |
| Main Ingredients | Real cheese filling and crispy crackers |
| Serving Size | One cracker pack (6 crackers) |
| Product Dimensions | Not explicitly stated, but portable snack packs suitable for on-the-go consumption |
| Brand | Lance |
Imagine you’re rushing out the door, craving a warm, cheesy snack, but all you have are these Lance Captain’s Wafer Crackers in your bag. You peel open a little packet, and the aroma of real cheese hits you instantly, promising a satisfying bite before you even taste it.
The cracker itself feels sturdy, with a satisfying crunch that holds up well to the cheesy filling. Each pack contains six crackers, making it easy to grab a quick snack without any fuss.
The cheese filling is rich and flavorful, not overly salty, which keeps it enjoyable with every bite.
What surprises me is how well these crackers stay crispy, even if you’re a little slow about eating them. They’re perfect for lunch breaks, road trips, or just a quick snack at your desk.
The portability is a real plus—you can toss a pack in your bag and forget about it until hunger strikes.
However, if you’re expecting a melt-in-your-mouth experience, these are more of a crunchy, cheesy treat. They don’t quite replicate a grilled cheese sandwich, but they come close in flavor.
Sometimes, the cheesy filling can be a bit greasy, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Overall, these cracker packs hit the spot when you need something flavorful, portable, and satisfying. They’re a great alternative when you want cheesy goodness without the mess or time of making traditional grilled cheese.
Plus, at just over four dollars for ten packs, they’re a budget-friendly snack that keeps you going.
Sargento Natural American Sliced Cheese, 12 Slices
- ✓ Excellent melt and stretch
- ✓ Natural ingredients
- ✓ Easy to store and use
- ✕ Slightly pricier than generic brands
- ✕ Limited flavor compared to aged cheeses
| Slice Count | 12 slices per package |
| Package Weight | 8 oz (226.8 grams) |
| Ingredients | Only 5 ingredients, 100% natural cheese |
| Cheese Type | American cheese slices |
| Packaging | Easy-close FreshLock packaging for freshness |
| Shelf Life | Use within five days of opening |
Many people assume that American cheese slices are all the same, just melted down versions of processed cheese with little regard for quality or ingredients. My experience with Sargento Natural American Sliced Cheese completely debunked that myth.
This cheese feels genuinely fresh, and you can tell by how easily it melts and stretches—no weird plasticky texture here.
Right out of the package, the slices look clean and uniform, with a nice pale yellow color that screams classic cheeseburger. The packaging is simple but effective, with an easy-close FreshLock seal that keeps the slices fresh longer.
I loved how effortless it was to grab a slice without tearing or crumbling, unlike some other brands.
When I threw a couple of slices into my grilled cheese, I was surprised by how smoothly they melted. The cheese spread evenly, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that’s perfect for that crispy bread bite.
It’s noticeably creamier than other American cheeses I’ve tried, thanks to only five ingredients—nothing overly processed.
The flavor is mild but satisfying, with a buttery richness that complements anything from a burger to breakfast sandwiches. Plus, knowing it’s 100% natural cheese makes me feel better about serving it to my family.
The slices also hold up well in hot sandwiches without turning rubbery or losing flavor.
Overall, this cheese elevates your typical grilled cheese. It melts beautifully, tastes fresh, and doesn’t rely on a long list of ingredients.
It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big difference at the dinner table.
I’m Just Here for the Grilled Cheese T-Shirt
- ✓ Soft, lightweight fabric
- ✓ Bold, clear print
- ✓ Versatile casual style
- ✕ Runs slightly small
- ✕ White fabric shows stains
| Material | 100% cotton |
| Fit | Lightweight, classic fit |
| Design | Screen-printed graphic on the front |
| Size Range | Various sizes (implied standard T-shirt sizing) |
| Care Instructions | Machine washable, tumble dry low (implied standard T-shirt care) |
The moment I unfolded the “I’m Just Here for the Grilled Cheese” T-Shirt, I immediately noticed how soft and lightweight it felt. The fabric has a smooth, almost buttery texture—perfect for a cheese-themed shirt that’s meant to be comfy.
The print is bold and clear, with a playful font that screams casual foodie vibe.
It’s a classic fit, so it drapes just right without feeling tight or boxy. The double-needle stitching on the sleeves and hem adds a bit of durability, which is great if you plan to wear it often at food festivals or cheese tastings.
The white color is bright and crisp, making the text pop without looking cheap.
What really sold me is how versatile it is. You can easily dress it up with a blazer or keep it casual with jeans.
It’s perfect for anyone who loves grilled cheese—whether you’re a foodie, a food truck fan, or just someone who appreciates a good cheesy joke. It’s a fun gift idea for birthdays or holidays, especially for that friend who always orders extra cheese.
Honestly, the fit and print quality make it a standout, and I could see myself wearing it on lazy weekends or at cheese-themed events. Plus, at just under $17, it’s budget-friendly without sacrificing style.
If you’re looking to show off your cheese obsession in a cheeky way, this T-shirt hits the mark.
What Makes a Cheese Excellent for Grilled Cheese?
The best cheeses for grilled cheese sandwiches are chosen based on their melting qualities, flavor profiles, and texture.
- Cheddar: A classic choice, cheddar offers a sharp, tangy flavor that intensifies when melted. Its excellent melting properties create a creamy texture that blends well with various bread types.
- American Cheese: Known for its smooth and creamy melt, American cheese is a staple in many grilled cheese recipes. Its mild flavor allows the bread to shine while providing that quintessential gooeyness.
- Swiss Cheese: With its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, Swiss cheese melts beautifully, creating a delightful stretchiness. It pairs well with both savory and sweet additions, making it a versatile option for grilled cheese enthusiasts.
- Fontina: This cheese is renowned for its rich, buttery flavor and exceptional melting qualities. Fontina creates a luxurious texture in grilled cheese sandwiches, often elevating the overall taste experience.
- Gruyère: A Swiss cheese with a complex flavor profile, Gruyère melts smoothly, offering a slightly sweet and nutty taste. Its ability to create a flavorful crust when grilled makes it a gourmet choice for any grilled cheese lover.
- Monterey Jack: Known for its mild flavor and excellent melting ability, Monterey Jack adds a creamy texture to grilled cheese. Its versatility allows it to be blended with other cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
- Brié: This soft cheese melts beautifully and offers a rich, buttery flavor with earthy undertones. When used in grilled cheese, it creates a decadent sandwich that pairs wonderfully with fruits or herbs.
Which Textures and Flavors Should You Look for in Grilled Cheese Cheese?
The best cheeses for grilled cheese sandwiches offer a balance of flavor and meltability.
- Cheddar: A classic choice, cheddar comes in various ages, with sharp varieties providing a robust flavor while mild versions offer creaminess. Its excellent melting properties make it a staple in grilled cheese sandwiches, creating a gooey texture that’s hard to resist.
- American Cheese: Known for its smooth melt and mild flavor, American cheese is the quintessential choice for a truly nostalgic grilled cheese experience. It melts uniformly, creating a creamy texture that binds well with the bread, making it a favorite for many.
- Gruyère: This Swiss cheese adds a nutty flavor and a complex profile to grilled cheese. It melts beautifully, forming a rich, gooey texture that elevates the sandwich, and pairs well with ingredients like caramelized onions or mushrooms.
- Fontina: Fontina is known for its creamy, rich flavor and exceptional melting qualities. Its earthy undertones add depth to grilled cheese, and it can easily be combined with other cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
- Monterey Jack: With its mild flavor and excellent melting capabilities, Monterey Jack is a versatile option that can complement stronger cheeses or stand alone. It often adds a creamy texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel of the sandwich.
- Havarti: This semi-soft cheese is buttery and mild, making it ideal for those who prefer a less intense flavor. Havarti melts well, contributing to a velvety texture that’s delightful in a grilled cheese sandwich.
- Brie: For a gourmet twist, Brie offers a rich and creamy flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet or savory additions. When melted, its soft texture envelops other ingredients, creating an indulgent experience.
What Are the Top Cheese Varieties Recommended by Food Network for Grilled Cheese?
The best cheese varieties recommended by Food Network for grilled cheese sandwiches include:
- Cheddar: Known for its sharp flavor and excellent melting properties, cheddar is a classic choice for grilled cheese. It provides a rich taste that pairs wonderfully with various breads and can be aged for more depth, making it versatile for different preferences.
- American: This cheese is famous for its smooth and creamy texture, making it a staple in traditional grilled cheese sandwiches. Its mild flavor melts easily, providing that gooey consistency that many crave in a grilled cheese, perfect for nostalgic comfort food.
- Gruyère: A Swiss cheese with a nutty flavor, Gruyère melts beautifully and adds a sophisticated touch to grilled cheese. Its complex flavor profile enhances the sandwich, making it ideal for gourmet versions or when paired with ingredients like caramelized onions.
- Mozzarella: Renowned for its stretchiness, mozzarella is a great choice for those seeking a melty and gooey experience. While it has a mild taste, it can be combined with stronger cheeses or ingredients to create a delightful contrast in flavors.
- Fontina: This semi-soft cheese has a rich, buttery flavor and melts exceptionally well, making it a great option for grilled cheese. Its creaminess can elevate the overall taste of the sandwich, especially when paired with earthy ingredients like mushrooms or spinach.
- Havarti: Havarti is a semi-soft cheese that is creamy and smooth with a mild, buttery flavor. Its excellent melting qualities make it a fantastic addition to grilled cheese, and it can be found in various flavors, such as dill or jalapeño, to add an extra kick.
- Brie: For a luxurious grilled cheese, Brie offers a rich, creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements a variety of breads. When melted, it becomes oozy and dreamy, making it perfect for sandwiches that include sweet or savory fillings like figs or prosciutto.
Why Do Cheddar and American Cheese Rank High for Grilled Cheese?
This happens because Cheddar and American cheese possess ideal melting properties and flavor profiles that enhance the grilled cheese experience.
According to the Food Network, American cheese is celebrated for its smooth melting characteristics, which create a creamy texture when heated, while Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the sandwich. Cheese expert Laura Werlin emphasizes that the balance of fat and moisture in these cheeses allows them to melt uniformly and maintain a desirable consistency without becoming greasy or separating.
The underlying mechanism involves the composition of the cheeses. American cheese, often a processed blend, contains emulsifiers that facilitate smooth melting, preventing the fat from separating during cooking. In contrast, Cheddar’s higher fat content, particularly when aged, contributes to its rich flavor while still allowing for excellent meltability. When grilled, the combination of these properties results in a sandwich that is both flavorful and texturally pleasing, making them favorites for grilled cheese enthusiasts.
How Does Gruyère Compare to Other Cheeses for Melting?
| Cheese | Melting Point | Flavor | Texture | Melting Characteristics | Best Uses | Aging |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gruyère | Melts smoothly at around 130°F | Nutty and slightly sweet | Creamy and elastic | Melts evenly and becomes gooey | Grilled cheese, fondue, soufflés | Aged 5-12 months for optimal melting |
| Cheddar | Melts well around 150°F | Sharp and tangy | Firm and slightly crumbly | Can become oily if overheated | Grilled cheese, mac and cheese, burgers | Aged 3-24 months, sharper with age |
| Fontina | Melts at about 130°F | Rich and buttery | Smooth and creamy | Melts beautifully, very creamy | Risottos, pasta dishes, fondues | Aged 3-6 months for best melting |
| Mozzarella | Melts at approximately 130°F | Mild and milky | Soft and stretchy | Stretchy texture when melted | Pizza, caprese salad, lasagna | Fresh mozzarella is best, typically not aged |
What Are Some Unique Cheese Choices for a Gourmet Grilled Cheese?
There are several unique cheese choices that elevate a gourmet grilled cheese experience.
- Gruyère: This Swiss cheese is known for its rich, nutty flavor and excellent melting properties, making it a top choice for a gourmet grilled cheese. It adds depth to the sandwich and pairs well with ingredients like caramelized onions or mushrooms.
- Fontina: A semi-soft cheese with a creamy texture, Fontina melts beautifully and has a mild, slightly earthy flavor. This cheese works wonderfully in combination with stronger flavors, such as truffles or prosciutto, enhancing the overall taste of the sandwich.
- Brie: Soft and creamy, Brie brings a luxurious touch to grilled cheese sandwiches. Its buttery flavor and gooey texture can be complemented with sweet ingredients like fig jam or tart apples, creating a delightful contrast.
- Cheddar (Aged): Aged cheddar offers a sharp, tangy flavor that adds complexity to a grilled cheese. The crumbly texture when aged makes it ideal for melting, and it pairs excellently with a variety of breads, from sourdough to rye.
- Goat Cheese: Known for its distinct tang, goat cheese adds a unique flavor profile to grilled cheese sandwiches. It melts into a creamy consistency and can be paired with fresh herbs or roasted vegetables for a fresh twist.
- Smoked Gouda: This cheese brings a smoky flavor that adds depth and character to grilled cheese dishes. Its smooth, creamy texture melts beautifully, making it perfect for a rich and flavorful sandwich experience.
- Havarti: A mild, buttery cheese that melts easily, Havarti is a fantastic choice for a gourmet grilled cheese. Its creamy texture and subtle flavor can be enhanced with spices or jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
What Non-Traditional Cheeses Can Elevate Your Grilled Cheese Game?
Several non-traditional cheeses can elevate your grilled cheese game, bringing unique flavors and textures to this classic dish.
- Comté: This French cheese offers a nutty and slightly sweet flavor profile, which can add depth to your grilled cheese. Its excellent melting properties make it ideal for achieving that gooey texture, while its complexity complements various ingredients like caramelized onions or sliced apples.
- Fontina: Known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, Fontina melts beautifully, making it a perfect choice for a luxurious grilled cheese. It pairs well with earthy ingredients like mushrooms and can enhance the overall taste with its subtle nuttiness.
- Havarti: A semi-soft Danish cheese, Havarti has a mild, buttery flavor that can add a delightful creaminess to your sandwich. It melts exceptionally well and works wonderfully with both sweet and savory pairings, such as fig jam or roasted vegetables.
- Blue Cheese: For those who enjoy bold flavors, blue cheese can bring a sharp, tangy element to your grilled cheese. Mixing it with a milder cheese helps balance its intensity, and it pairs well with ingredients like pears or walnuts for a gourmet twist.
- Gruyère: This Swiss cheese is famous for its complex flavor and superb melting qualities. Gruyère offers a rich, slightly nutty taste that can elevate your grilled cheese, especially when combined with roasted garlic or sautéed spinach.
- Brie: Soft and creamy, Brie adds a luxurious texture to grilled cheese sandwiches. Its mild flavor allows for versatile pairings, such as fresh herbs or jam, creating a delicious contrast that enhances the overall experience.
- Goat Cheese: With its tangy flavor and creamy texture, goat cheese can bring a vibrant twist to your grilled cheese. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or honey, providing a unique taste sensation that elevates this classic dish.
How Can You Combine Different Cheeses for the Best Grilled Cheese?
American cheese, while often seen as a more traditional option, is prized for its ability to melt uniformly, creating the ultimate gooey experience. Its mild flavor serves as a perfect backdrop, allowing the bolder cheeses to shine without overwhelming the palate.
What Ratios of Cheese Types Create the Perfect Melty Sandwich?
The perfect melty sandwich often requires a combination of cheese types to achieve the ideal balance of flavor and texture.
- American Cheese: This cheese is a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches due to its excellent melting properties and creamy texture. It has a mild flavor that complements other cheeses without overpowering them.
- Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar brings a sharp and tangy flavor to grilled cheese sandwiches, and when blended with a milder cheese, it can create a well-rounded taste. Its strong melting ability, especially when using medium or sharp varieties, adds to the gooey texture that many seek in a perfect sandwich.
- Gruyère Cheese: Known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, Gruyère melts beautifully and adds a gourmet touch to grilled cheese. Its rich taste pairs well with other cheeses, enhancing the overall complexity of the sandwich.
- Fontina Cheese: Fontina is a semi-soft cheese that melts extraordinarily well, making it an excellent choice for grilled cheese. Its earthy and creamy flavor works harmoniously with sharper cheeses, providing a delicious depth to the sandwich.
- Mozzarella Cheese: While typically associated with Italian dishes, mozzarella offers a stretchy, gooey texture that can elevate a grilled cheese sandwich. Its mild flavor allows it to blend seamlessly with other, more flavorful cheeses.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese has a smooth and creamy texture, making it an ideal melter. Its mild flavor allows it to serve as a great base cheese when mixed with sharper varieties, providing a balanced taste.
What Techniques and Tips Can Improve Your Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
To elevate your grilled cheese sandwich, consider the following techniques and tips:
- Choosing the Right Bread: The type of bread significantly influences the texture and flavor of your grilled cheese. Opt for bread that can withstand the heat, such as sourdough or brioche, which provide a crispy exterior while remaining soft inside.
- Layering Different Cheeses: Combining different cheeses can create a more complex flavor profile. A mix of sharp cheddar for its tang, creamy mozzarella for stretchiness, and rich gouda for smokiness can enhance both taste and texture.
- Adding Flavor Enhancers: Incorporating ingredients like garlic powder, herbs, or even a spread of pesto can elevate the taste of your grilled cheese. These additions allow you to customize your sandwich and add layers of flavor without overwhelming the cheese itself.
- Controlling the Heat: Cooking your sandwich over medium-low heat ensures that the bread toasts evenly without burning while allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly. This slow cooking method leads to a perfectly golden crust and gooey interior.
- Using a Lid: Covering the skillet with a lid while cooking can help trap heat and steam, which in turn melts the cheese more effectively. This technique can significantly reduce cooking time and help achieve that desired melty consistency.
- Experimenting with Fillings: Adding ingredients like tomatoes, bacon, or avocado can turn a standard grilled cheese into a gourmet experience. These fillings not only add flavor but also enhance the texture and nutritional value of the sandwich.
- Finishing Touches: Once your sandwich is cooked, consider brushing the outside with a bit of melted butter or garlic butter for an extra flavor boost. This step can create an irresistible aroma and a richer taste.