The Sandwich King’s Dressed-Up Grilled Cheese — Meatless Monday
James Wojcik
Just when you think that there’s no way to improve upon the classic beauty of a traditional grilled cheese sandwich, Sandwich King Jeff Mauro puts his royal spin on this all-American favorite.
Made with in-season produce, richly flavored onions and plenty of cheese, Jeff’s Squash, Manchego and Balsamic-Onion Grilled Cheese (pictured above) from Food Network Magazine is a next-level sandwich that’s as comforting and deliciously gooey as the original. The secret to this grilled cheese is the balsamic-laced onions. Be sure to let them cook slowly on a low temperature for about 30 minutes so that they can concentrate their taste and become soft and sweet.
If you’re cooking for youngsters who may prefer something simpler, stick with Jeff’s Classic American Grilled Cheese (pictured left). He layers a combination of white and yellow American cheeses between old-fashioned white bread and cooks the sandwiches on a griddle for just a few minutes. Before serving, shape the grilled cheeses into kid-friendly stars like Jeff does for an easy, playful meal.
Meatless Monday, an international movement, encourages people everywhere to cut meat one day a week for personal and planetary health. Browse more Meatless Monday recipes.