Best Bread for Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese is a lunchtime staple in our home; how about yours? There’s simply nothing quite like the crispy exterior and ooey-gooey, ultra-cheesy center. But what bread is best for grilled cheese sandwiches? Surprisingly enough, there are many top-notch choices.

The best bread for grilled cheese includes sourdough, white bread, rye bread, whole grain, baguette, Texas toast, pretzel bun, and brioche.

Hello! My name is Michelle, and I am a self-taught baker that’s enjoyed whipping up all kinds of treats in my kitchen for the past ten years. One thing I enjoy making is grilled cheese sandwiches. We make them at least once weekly, so we’ve tried many bread types. 

Here is my list of the top 8 bread types for grilled cheese!

Top 8 Bread Options for Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Just one best bread for grilled cheese? No way. 

In this kitchen, we’re all about switching things up and enjoying new flavors.

Join us as we uncover the top eight bread types you absolutely must try with your next grilled cheese sandwiches (note – some of these answers might surprise you!).

1. Sourdough

Perhaps the most classic bread option for grilled cheese sandwiches is sourdough.

The slightly sour flavor of sourdough bread pairs well with multiple cheese types, especially sharper varieties.

Sourdough and cheese are almost as classic of a pairing as chocolate and peanut butter. Don’t believe me? Then give it a try!

2. White

If you prefer your grilled cheese to be a little softer, you will want to reach for white bread.

White bread is a wonderful option because it’s very delicate and doesn’t have much flavor on its own.

That said, using white bread to make grilled cheese sandwiches places the taste of the cheese on center stage – and who doesn’t love that?

Whether you keep it simple with a few slices of American cheese or use three different cheese types, bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce, you can rest assured of a tasty grilled cheese that’s quite pliable and mouthwatering.

3. Rye

Not afraid of a little flavor? Then I highly recommend reaching for rye bread when you make your upcoming grilled cheese sandwich.

Rye bread has a very robust, distinct, and exotic flavor. 

When paired with quieter cheeses like Swiss, you can create a decadent, almost wowing sandwich, unlike anything you’ve ever tasted.

4. Whole Grain

Whole grain bread has made my top list of the healthiest bread types on the market. But it’s not just a nutritional powerhouse. It’s also insanely good.

With its high levels of vitamins and minerals, scrumptious flavor, and relatively soft texture, it’s a natural top pick for grilled cheese sandwiches.

Basically, opt for whole grain bread if you want to add a little healthy pow to your not-so-healthy, insanely cheesy grilled cheeses.

5. Baguette

Ah, the classic baguette. Is there anything this delectable bread can’t do?

Baguettes are most commonly used for a slew of yummy sandwiches. Why not use it for your next grilled cheese sandwich, too?

The perk of using baguettes as your bread for grilled cheeses is that they will create a tremendously crispy exterior and delightfully chewy interior. Pair that with melted cheese and other favorite toppings, and it’s clear why the baguette grilled cheese is a winner.

6. Texas Toast

Are you looking to make a grilled cheese sandwich that’s a mile high? Then you’ll want to reach for your loaf of Texas toast, otherwise known as one of the thickest yet softest bread types on the market.

Texas toast grilled cheeses are literally life-changing. 

Think of them as the “upgraded white bread grilled cheese” – you know, because you’re an adult now, and your mouth can easily handle two slabs of Texas toast on top of each other now.

Consider Texas toast if you want a grilled cheese that tastes almost cloudlike and bursting with comforting tastes!

7. Pretzel Bun

I know, I know – this one’s a little out of the box. 

But I like to think of it this way – everyone loves a soft pretzel with beer cheese. Why wouldn’t a pretzel bun be good with melted cheese?

That thought eventually birthed the pretzel bun grilled cheese, now a staple in our home – especially on game day.

Pair it with a beer if you’re 21+, and you’re sure to love it!

8. Brioche

Cheese is frequently paired with other sweet treats. Think: the last charcuterie board you and your pals whipped up. It likely had an arrangement of yummy things to eat, including crackers, cheese, fruit, nuts, and chocolate.

That got me thinking – what would happen if I used slightly sweet bread to make my grilled cheese?

The results were magnificent. The sweet flavor of the brioche paired unbelievably well with the cheese, creating something quite miraculous. Not only that, but the dense texture of the brioche allowed me to add more cheese and toppings – and everyone can give that two thumbs up.

FAQs

Clearly, when it comes to making a grilled cheese sandwich, you can think outside of the box and still be successful! Before you go to make a yummy grilled cheese sandwich with one of these bread types, check out these frequently asked questions.

What is the secret to a good grilled cheese sandwich?

There are a lot of “secrets” out there. But let me share my secrets. Firstly, always use mayonnaise instead of butter. It sounds weird, but trust me – I worked in fast food, and this is how it happens. Ensure that the pan is hot before placing your ingredients down. Opt for low and slow!

What kind of cheese is best for grilled cheese?

Much like bread, you really can’t go wrong with any type of cheese for grilled cheese sandwiches. I have used many different types, sometimes used alone or together. Regardless, American, cheddar, brie, Monterey jack, provolone, gruyere, and mozzarella are great picks.

Should I toast my bread before making grilled cheese?

You can definitely toast your bread before making grilled cheese. This will ensure the famous golden-brown crust that lends the crunchy and desirable texture to grilled cheese sandwiches. It will also allow your bread to hold up better against the massive amounts of cheese (and other toppings).

There Are Endless Bread Options for Grilled Cheese Sandwiches!

Honestly, you can’t go wrong with any type of bread for grilled cheese sandwiches. However, the two most famous options are sourdough and white. If you want something exotic, go with rye or a pretzel bun. Up the nutrient level with whole grain or go sweet with brioche.

What is your favorite type of bread to use for grilled cheese sandwiches? Why? Share with us so we can try it out, too!

I have been a lover of sweets since day one. This led me on a self-taught baking journey starting at the age of 13. It's been over 10 years since the start of my baking adventures, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, people rave about my delectable treats, whether it’s a chocolate cake or a strawberry crepe.