Celebrate National Grilled Cheese Day: Make Your Own or Enjoy Restaurant Deals!
Embrace Comfort on National Grilled Cheese Day
National Grilled Cheese Day is right around the corner, and if there’s ever a day to indulge in creamy, melty goodness, it’s definitely this one! On Saturday, April 12, you can celebrate with fabulous restaurant deals or unleash your inner chef and craft the perfect grilled cheese masterpiece in your own kitchen. Whether you prefer classic comfort or something more adventurous, the world of grilled cheese awaits you!
A Culinary Classic
The grilled cheese sandwich is much more than just two slices of bread with melted cheese. It’s a nostalgic journey through childhood, taking many of us back to simpler times. NASA astronaut Suni Williams, after nine months away in space, craved a grilled cheese sandwich as a reminder of home. “It’s something that reminds you of family,” she fondly recalled.
Shane Schiably, senior vice president of culinary strategy at First Watch, aptly described grilled cheese as "the ultimate comfort food," revealing how it sparks feelings of nostalgia for millions.
Grilled Cheese: By the Numbers
Did you know that approximately 2.4 billion grilled cheese sandwiches were consumed at home in the last year alone? According to Circana’s National Eating Trends, an additional 171 million were ordered from restaurants. This beloved dish speaks to the hearts—and stomachs—of Americans everywhere.
Jenny Mehlman, senior director of marketing at Dairy Farmers of America, insightfully noted: “Cheese isn’t just half the sandwich’s name; it’s the heart of what makes grilled cheese so beloved.”
Let Your Creativity Flow
How do you like your grilled cheese? A recent survey revealed 47% of grilled cheese aficionados keep it simple—just cheese and toasted bread. But the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Experimentation is key!
Harrison Ford’s variation? Whole wheat bread, sharp cheddar, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Unique, isn’t it? Meanwhile, renowned chef Carla Hall prefers pumpernickel for an added twist.
Popular Choices Among Cooks
Here are the most favored elements of grilled cheese sandwiches based on a survey conducted by Borden Cheese:
Cheese:
- American (49%)
- Cheddar (46%)
- Others include Mozzarella (27%), Swiss (22%), Pepper Jack (21%), and Colby Jack (20%).
Coating:
- 65% spread butter on the outside, while 14% opt for mayonnaise.
- Toasting Preference:
- 70% prefer their bread toasted to a golden brown, and the quest for perfect toasting even leads some parents to remake sandwiches.
Elevate Your Grilled Cheese Experience
Ready to take your grilled cheese to the next level? Here are some expert tips:
Dare to Change the Cheese: Try Muenster, Provolone, or even a punchy blue cheese for an unforgettable flavor profile.
Experiment with Bread: Think beyond basic white bread—go for ciabatta, sourdough, or even brioche to enhance your sandwich.
Prepping is Key: Letting cheese and butter come to room temperature before cooking allows for smoother melting and easier spreading.
Add Flavor: Zest it up with ghee or spices. You could even use pepperjack cheese to give your sandwich a spicy twist.
- Cooking Techniques: Cover your sandwich while it cooks to trap heat, promoting a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Savor Delicious Deals
Prefer to dine out? Restaurants are marking National Grilled Cheese Day with delightful offers!
La Madeleine
- Enjoy a grilled cheese for $7.99 (original price: $9.99) available for dine-in, to-go, and delivery!
Sonic Drive-In
- Take advantage of a Buy One, Get One Free grilled cheese offer through the Sonic app, valid until April 20.
Your Grilled Cheese Adventure Awaits
This National Grilled Cheese Day, whether you’re indulging at home or savoring a restaurant special, embrace the comfort, nostalgia, and endless possibilities of the iconic grilled cheese sandwich. Get creative, and let your taste buds lead the way!
Interested in even more ideas? Dive deeper into grilled cheese recipes or celebrate with cheese-based events at Borden Cheese!
What’s your go-to grilled cheese combo? Share your delicious ideas, and let’s keep the grilled cheese love flowing!
