Grilled Cheese: Oil Pan Or No Oil Pan?

Grilled cheese is a classic comfort food, but there is some debate about the best way to make it. While some people advocate for using butter on the pan or on the bread, others suggest using alternative fats such as olive oil, coconut oil, or even cooking spray. Ultimately, the choice of fat comes down to personal preference and the desired level of crispiness and flavour.

Butter is best for grilled cheese

There's nothing quite like a grilled cheese sandwich. The ultimate comfort food, it combines crispy, buttery bread with melty, gooey cheese. But what's the best way to make it? Should you oil the pan, or is butter really best?

The Classic Choice

Butter is the classic choice for grilled cheese, and many people's first choice when it comes to cooking this sandwich. It adds a delicious buttery flavour, and the milk solids turn a nutty, golden brown, enhancing the taste and texture. It's a simple, effective option that's readily available in most kitchens.

The Drawbacks

However, butter isn't without its drawbacks. It can burn easily, leading to overcooked bread and a smoky kitchen. It also needs to be softened to room temperature to be easily spreadable, and it can make the sandwich greasy if you use too much.

The Alternatives

There are several alternatives to using butter. Oils such as olive, coconut, or avocado can be used, and these can create a lovely crispy texture. Bacon fat is another tasty option, adding a salty, smoky flavour to the sandwich. Mayonnaise is a popular choice, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavour, and it can be spread straight from the fridge.

The Verdict

While there are several alternatives, butter is still the best choice for grilled cheese. It adds a superior flavour and aroma, and the milk solids create a unique, nutty taste. The key to using butter successfully is to use it in combination with another fat, such as mayonnaise. This combination provides the perfect balance of flavour and texture, with the mayonnaise preventing the butter from burning too quickly. So, the next time you're making a grilled cheese sandwich, be sure to reach for the butter!

Mayonnaise is an alternative

Mayonnaise also has some practical advantages. It is spreadable straight from the fridge, making prep easier. It also helps retain moisture in the sandwich, preventing the toast from drying out.

However, some people prefer the taste of butter over mayonnaise. Butter adds a nutty flavor to the sandwich as its milk solids brown.

If you want the best of both worlds, you can try using a combination of butter and mayonnaise. This combination provides a nice richness and a multidimensional flavor. The mayonnaise prevents the butter from burning too quickly, allowing the cheese to melt properly.

Olive oil is a good option

Olive oil is a great alternative to butter when making grilled cheese sandwiches. It is a healthier option, and it gives the sandwich a nuttier, more robust flavor. It is also easier to spread than butter, and you can use less of it. Olive oil helps with browning the bread but doesn't burn as easily as butter. It gives the sandwich a lovely amount of crispiness, and the cheese melts nicely. The olive oil taste is faint and not overpowering.

If you are worried about the sandwich being dry, you can add a little butter to the olive oil. This combination is recommended by Ina Garten, who suggests that the butter adds a rich flavor, while the olive oil prevents the butter from burning. This combination results in excellent browning without burning, and the cheese melts beautifully. The flavor is delicious, with just the right amount of richness and saltiness.

If you are looking for a healthier option for your grilled cheese sandwich, olive oil is a good choice. It gives a great flavor and texture to the sandwich without the risk of burning that comes with butter.

When using olive oil for grilled cheese, it is best to brush it on the bread before placing the slices in the skillet. This helps ensure that the oil is evenly distributed and that the bread cooks evenly. You can also experiment with different types of olive oil, such as extra virgin or flavored oils, to find the one you like best.

So, if you're looking for a delicious and healthier alternative to butter for your grilled cheese sandwiches, olive oil is a great option!

Coconut oil works well

Coconut oil is an excellent choice for making grilled cheese. It is solid at room temperature, like butter, and can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for frying and sauteeing.

When preparing grilled cheese, coconut oil will give your sandwich a beautiful, even, golden-brown crunch. The cheese will melt to perfection, and there won't be even a hint of a coconut taste. Coconut oil is also much easier to spread than butter, which tends to be hard and can tear the bread.

If you're concerned about the health benefits of coconut oil, it's important to note that, while many people opt to use it in the kitchen for this reason, there is little evidence that it provides nutritional advantages when used in cooking. However, it is a great option if you're looking for a crispy grilled cheese sandwich without an overpowering flavour.

To make the perfect grilled cheese with coconut oil, start by heating a griddle or large skillet to medium heat. Spread coconut oil on both sides of each slice of bread. You can use white or whole wheat bread. Then, place your cheese in the middle. For a classic grilled cheese, use one slice of yellow American cheese and one slice of white American cheese.

Place the sandwich on the griddle and cover it with a large metal bowl or skillet lid. This will help the cheese melt faster. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sandwich is golden brown. Then, flip the sandwich, cover again, and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Finally, remove the sandwich from the griddle and slice it in half. Enjoy your crispy, golden, and delicious grilled cheese!

Bacon fat is tasty

To use bacon grease for your grilled cheese, simply spread a layer of the cooled and hardened fat on the outside of your bread before placing it in the skillet. You'll get a salty, crunchy exterior with a hint of bacon flavour. This method is especially good if you don't have the time or ingredients to make a bacon-filled grilled cheese but still want that savoury bacon taste.

If you're looking for other ways to infuse your grilled cheese with bacon flavour, you can try adding a layer of crispy bacon to your sandwich. Bacon jam is another popular way to add that savoury kick, and it's a favourite among chefs. You can also try adding balsamic bacon jam, caramelised onions, and sun-dried tomatoes for an even more elevated dining experience.

So, if you're looking to take your grilled cheese to the next level, bacon grease is the answer. It's tasty, it's versatile, and it makes the most of your bacon grease leftovers!

Frequently asked questions