What Goes Good with Grilled Cheese? Best Sides and Pairings

Grilled cheese is a timeless comfort food loved by people of all ages. With its crispy, buttery bread and gooey melted cheese, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. However, while a grilled cheese sandwich can be satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right side dish elevates the experience. From classic soups to fresh salads and crunchy snacks, the right complement can enhance flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Whether you prefer something light and fresh or rich and indulgent, here are the best side dishes that go perfectly with grilled cheese.

Classic Soup Pairings

A warm bowl of soup is the ultimate companion to grilled cheese. The combination of a crispy sandwich dipped into a flavorful broth or creamy soup makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. Here are the best soup options to pair with your grilled cheese:

Tomato Soup

Arguably the most famous pairing, tomato soup and grilled cheese are a match made in heaven. The creamy, slightly tangy tomato flavor balances the richness of the cheese, while the warm, velvety texture provides the perfect dipping consistency. For added depth, consider making a homemade version with roasted tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil.

Chicken Noodle Soup

For a lighter yet hearty option, chicken noodle soup is a great choice. The savory broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles create a comforting contrast to the crunchy sandwich. Plus, the high protein content in chicken noodle soup makes the meal more filling and nutritious.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you’re a cheese lover, pairing your grilled cheese with a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup takes things to the next level. The rich, creamy texture of the soup complements the cheesy goodness of the sandwich while the broccoli adds a touch of freshness.

Fresh and Light Salads

A fresh salad provides a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery grilled cheese. The combination of greens, fruits, and dressings can add a flavorful and nutritious boost to your meal.

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing is a great choice. The garlicky, slightly tangy dressing complements the buttery sandwich, making it a satisfying combination.

Arugula and Pear Salad

For a more unique and flavorful pairing, an arugula and pear salad is an excellent option. The peppery arugula and sweet, juicy pears create a contrast that balances the heaviness of the grilled cheese. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds an extra layer of depth to the dish.

Caprese Salad

A Caprese salad, made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, is another fantastic choice. The juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella offer a light and refreshing bite that complements the crispy sandwich, while a drizzle of balsamic reduction enhances the flavors.

Crunchy Sides

If you love a bit of crunch with your meal, these side dishes will add the perfect texture contrast to your grilled cheese.

French Fries

Crispy, golden French fries are a popular choice that never disappoints. Whether you opt for classic fries, shoestring fries, or thick-cut wedges, they provide a salty, satisfying bite that pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich.

Sweet Potato Fries

For a slightly healthier alternative, sweet potato fries add a touch of natural sweetness that complements the richness of the sandwich. The crispy texture and slightly caramelized edges make them a delicious choice.

Potato Chips

A handful of potato chips is a quick and easy way to add crunch to your meal. Classic salted chips work well, but you can also experiment with flavored varieties like barbecue, sour cream & onion, or jalapeño for an extra kick.

Pickles and Fermented Foods

Adding a tangy or slightly acidic side dish can cut through the richness of grilled cheese and provide a refreshing balance.

Dill Pickles

A crisp dill pickle is one of the best side options for grilled cheese. The briny, slightly sour flavor helps balance the richness of the cheese, while the crunch adds an enjoyable textural contrast.

Sauerkraut

If you enjoy fermented flavors, sauerkraut is a great choice. The tangy, slightly sour cabbage brings an unexpected yet delightful balance to a cheesy sandwich.

Kimchi

For those who love bold flavors, kimchi adds a spicy, umami-rich contrast to grilled cheese. The fermented Korean dish is slightly tangy and brings a unique depth of flavor that pairs surprisingly well with melted cheese.

Roasted or Grilled Vegetables

Adding roasted or grilled vegetables to your plate can provide a healthy, flavorful, and slightly smoky contrast to the rich sandwich.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan bring an earthy, slightly crispy element to your meal. Their caramelized edges add a delicious contrast to the gooey cheese.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus has a mild, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the buttery crunch of grilled cheese. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the overall balance.

Caramelized Onions

Sweet and savory caramelized onions can be served as a side or even added inside the sandwich for an extra layer of flavor. Their natural sweetness enhances the taste of melted cheese beautifully.

Fresh Fruit and Sweet Pairings

A touch of natural sweetness can complement the salty, cheesy flavors of grilled cheese.

Apple Slices

Crisp apple slices, especially tart varieties like Granny Smith, provide a refreshing crunch and slight acidity that balances the richness of the sandwich.

Grapes

Sweet, juicy grapes are a great contrast to the salty and savory grilled cheese. The burst of freshness makes each bite even more enjoyable.

Strawberries or Figs

Both strawberries and figs offer a unique sweetness that pairs well with cheese. Their slightly tangy flavors create a sophisticated balance.

Dips and Sauces

Dipping your grilled cheese in a delicious sauce can enhance its flavor and add variety to each bite.

Marinara Sauce

If you love pizza, dipping your grilled cheese in marinara sauce is a must-try. The tomato-based sauce adds a tangy, herby flavor that transforms the sandwich into a pizza-like treat.

Honey Mustard

A little honey mustard on the side provides a sweet and tangy kick that complements the cheesy goodness of the sandwich.

Spicy Aioli

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy aioli (garlic mayo with a hint of spice) adds a creamy yet bold flavor that elevates the grilled cheese experience.

Breakfast-Inspired Pairings

If you’re enjoying grilled cheese for breakfast or brunch, consider these classic morning-friendly sides.

Bacon

Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that pairs exceptionally well with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich.

Scrambled Eggs

Adding a side of fluffy scrambled eggs makes your grilled cheese meal more filling and protein-packed.

Hash Browns

Golden, crispy hash browns provide a satisfying crunch and pair beautifully with melted cheese.

Conclusion

Grilled cheese is already a delicious treat, but the right side dish can take it to another level. Whether you prefer a warm bowl of soup, a fresh salad, crispy fries, or a unique dipping sauce, there are endless possibilities to enhance your grilled cheese experience. Experiment with different combinations and find your perfect pairing to make every bite more enjoyable.