The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Grilling the Best Grilling Cheese Barbecue (2024 Update)

Are you a cheese lover looking for a delicious and unique way to enjoy your favorite dairy delight? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore the best way to cook grilling cheese, a mouthwatering treat that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with simple yet effective techniques to bring out the best flavors in your grilling cheese.

If you’ve never tried grilling cheese before, you’re in for a treat! This delectable cheese variety is perfect for those who enjoy a crispy, golden exterior with a soft and gooey center. In this article, we’ll dive into the different types of grilling cheese available and discuss the best methods to achieve that perfect balance of texture and flavor. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your newfound grilling cheese expertise!

Are you ready to take your grilling game to the next level? Look no further than grilling cheese! Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a quick and satisfying snack, grilling cheese is the way to go. In this article, we’ll share some expert tips and tricks to ensure that your grilling cheese turns out perfectly every time. From choosing the right cheese to mastering the cooking techniques, get ready to elevate your culinary skills and indulge in a cheesy delight like no other.

Table of Contents

What is Grilling Cheese?

If you’re new to the world of grilling, you may be wondering what exactly grilling cheese is. Well, let me introduce you to this delectable treat. Grilling cheese, also known as halloumi or squeaky cheese, is a firm cheese that is specially made to be grilled or pan-fried without melting. Yes, you heard that right – it won’t turn into a gooey mess on the grill!

Grilling cheese has a unique texture that is slightly chewy and squeaky when you bite into it. It has a high melting point, which allows it to develop a golden crust while remaining firm on the inside. This makes it the perfect cheese for grilling, as it holds its shape and develops a delicious charred flavor.

There are various types of grilling cheese available, each with its own distinct characteristics. Some popular options include halloumi, paneer, and queso de freír. Halloumi, originating from Cyprus, has a salty taste and a creamy texture. Paneer, commonly used in Indian cuisine, is mild and crumbly. Queso de freír, a Latin American cheese, has a buttery flavor and a smooth texture.

Now that you know what grilling cheese is, let’s move on to the exciting part – how to cook it to perfection.

Types of Grilling Cheese

Now that you’re ready to take your grilling skills to the next level, let’s dive into the different types of grilling cheese that you can experiment with. Each type offers a unique flavor and texture, adding a delightful twist to your grilling adventures. Here are some popular options:

Halloumi: Originating from Cyprus, halloumi is a firm and salty cheese that holds its shape when grilled. It develops a beautiful golden crust on the outside while maintaining a gooey, creamy center. The combination of its robust flavor and versatile nature makes halloumi a favorite among grill masters.
Paneer: Hailing from the Indian subcontinent, paneer is a fresh cheese that is perfect for grilling. It has a mild, milky taste and a soft yet firm texture. When cooked on the grill, paneer becomes slightly charred on the edges, creating a delicious smoky flavor that pairs well with various spices and marinades.
Queso de Freír: Popular in Latin American cuisine, queso de freír is a white, semi-soft cheese that is ideal for grilling. It has a smooth and slightly elastic texture, allowing it to hold its shape when heated. Grilling queso de freír enhances its natural creaminess and brings out its subtle flavors, making it a fantastic addition to any grilled dish.

Now that you’re familiar with these grilling cheese options, it’s time to choose the one that suits your taste buds and culinary preferences. Remember, the key to grilling cheese is to maintain a balance between achieving a crispy exterior and a melty interior. So, grab your favorite grilling cheese and let’s move on to the next step – preparing the cheese for the grill.

Choosing the Best Grilling Cheese

Now that you’re ready to take your grilling skills to the next level, let’s talk about choosing the best grilling cheese. As a grill master, I understand the importance of selecting the right cheese for that perfect melt and irresistible flavor. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice:

Consider the melting point: Grilling cheese needs to hold its shape on the grill while developing a golden crust. Look for cheeses with a higher melting point, such as halloumi, paneer, or queso de freír. These cheeses are specifically made for grilling, ensuring a delightful texture with every bite.
Texture matters: When it comes to grilling cheese, texture is key. You want a cheese that is firm enough to hold its shape but also softens nicely when heated. Halloumi and paneer are great options as they have a slightly rubbery texture that becomes beautifully creamy when grilled.
Flavor profile: Different grilling cheeses offer distinct flavors that can elevate your dish. Halloumi has a salty and tangy taste, while paneer has a mild and creamy flavor. Queso de freír, popular in Latin American cuisine, has a rich and savory taste. Consider the flavor profile you desire and choose a cheese that complements your dish.
Availability: While halloumi and paneer are widely available in most grocery stores, other grilling cheeses may be more challenging to find. Explore specialty cheese shops or international markets to discover unique grilling cheese options that can add a delightful twist to your grilled dishes.

Preparing the Grilling Cheese

Now that you’ve selected the perfect grilling cheese, it’s time to prepare it for the grill. Preparing the cheese properly is essential to achieve that perfect golden brown crust and gooey, melted interior. Here are a few steps to follow:

Slice the Cheese: Start by slicing the grilling cheese into even pieces. The thickness of the slices will depend on your personal preference, but aim for slices that are about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Remember, thinner slices will cook faster and develop a crispier texture.
Pat the Cheese Dry: Before grilling, make sure to pat the cheese slices dry with a paper towel. This will help remove any excess moisture, allowing the cheese to develop a nice crust without becoming too soggy.
Brush with Oil: Brush both sides of the cheese slices with a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. This will prevent the cheese from sticking to the grill and help promote even browning.
Season to Taste: Sprinkle your favorite seasonings onto the cheese slices to add an extra layer of flavor. You can go simple with just a sprinkle of salt and pepper or get creative with herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, or dried oregano.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Grill Time: Once the grill is preheated, carefully place the cheese slices directly onto the hot grates. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese develops a golden brown crust and starts to soften and melt.

Remember, grilling cheese can be delicate, so handle it with care when flipping. A spatula or grilling tongs will work best for this task.

And there you have it! Your grilling cheese is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve it as a standalone appetizer, on top of a salad, or as a delicious addition to your favorite burger or sandwich. Get creative and experiment with different toppings and accompaniments to elevate your grilling cheese experience.

Tips for Grilling the Cheese

Now that you have selected the perfect grilling cheese, it’s time to learn how to grill it to perfection. As a seasoned grill master, I’m here to share some tips that will help you elevate your grilling game and impress your guests with deliciously grilled cheese.

Preparation is Key: Before you start grilling, make sure to slice your cheese into even pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly and have a consistent texture. Additionally, pat the cheese dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, as this can interfere with the grilling process.
Brush with Oil: To prevent the cheese from sticking to the grill, brush each side with a light coating of oil. This will create a barrier between the cheese and the grill grates, making it easier to flip and remove without any mishaps.
Season to Taste: While grilling cheese has its own unique flavor, you can enhance it by adding some seasoning. Sprinkle a pinch of your favorite herbs, spices, or even a dash of lemon zest to add a burst of flavor to the cheese.
Preheat the Grill: Just like with any other grilling session, it’s important to preheat your grill before adding the cheese. This ensures that the cheese cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust. Aim for a medium-high heat to achieve that perfect balance between melting and caramelization.
Grill Time: When it comes to grilling cheese, timing is everything. Cook the cheese for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it develops a nice char and starts to soften. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become too melty and lose its shape.
Handle with Care: Grilling cheese can be delicate, so handle it with care when flipping it on the grill. A spatula or tongs can be helpful in ensuring that the cheese stays intact and doesn’t break apart.

Serving Suggestions for Grilling Cheese

Now that you’ve mastered the art of grilling cheese, it’s time to explore the wonderful world of serving suggestions. Grilling cheese is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

As an Appetizer: Grilled cheese makes for a fantastic appetizer that will impress your guests. Serve it alongside some crusty bread, olives, and sliced tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired platter. You can also drizzle some honey or balsamic glaze over the grilled cheese for a touch of sweetness.
On Top of a Salad: Add a delicious twist to your salads by incorporating grilled cheese. Cut the grilled cheese into bite-sized pieces and toss them into a fresh green salad. The warm, melty cheese will add a rich and savory element to your salad, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal.
In a Burger or Sandwich: Take your burgers and sandwiches to the next level by adding grilled cheese. Place a slice of grilled cheese on top of your beef patty or stack it between two slices of bread with your favorite fillings. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a gooey and irresistible addition to your burger or sandwich.
With Grilled Vegetables: Grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables. Slice up some zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, and grill them alongside the cheese. The combination of smoky grilled vegetables and the creamy, melted cheese is a match made in BBQ heaven.

Conclusion

Now that you have learned the best way to cook grilling cheese, you are ready to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. By considering factors such as melting point, texture, flavor profile, and availability, you can choose the perfect cheese for grilling. Cheeses like halloumi, paneer, or queso de freír are excellent options due to their higher melting point and firm texture that softens when grilled.

Remember to handle the delicate cheese with care when flipping it on the grill. Follow the steps of slicing, patting dry, brushing with oil, seasoning to taste, preheating the grill, and grilling for 2-3 minutes per side for the best results.

Grilled cheese can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it as an appetizer, on top of a salad, or as a delicious addition to a burger or sandwich. Get creative with your serving suggestions, such as pairing grilled cheese with crusty bread, olives, and sliced tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired platter, adding it to salads for a rich and savory element, incorporating it into burgers or sandwiches for a gooey and irresistible addition, or pairing it with grilled vegetables for a smoky and creamy combination.