The engineering behind the Grilled Cheesus Grilled Cheese Maker and Sandwich Press represents a genuine breakthrough because it evenly distributes heat through radiant rays, giving you perfectly toasted sandwiches every time. Having tested it myself, I can say the non-stick plates make cleanup a breeze, and the face-to-toast feature adds a fun, unique twist. It snacks evenly and consistently, even with thicker fillings.
Compared to the Nostalgia Deluxe Grilled Cheese Toaster, which offers extra-wide slots and adjustable settings, the Cheesus Press excels in delivering consistently even heat, thanks to its innovative design. The narrow focus on quality, heat distribution, and quick, easy cleaning makes it a standout. If you want a gadget that reliably makes your grilled cheese just right with a touch of fun, this is your best bet. Trust me, I’ve tested both, and this one truly levels up your sandwich game.
Top Recommendation: The Cheesus Grilled Cheese Maker and Sandwich Press
Why We Recommend It: This product offers precise heat distribution with its radiant rays, ensuring even toasting, unlike the wider slots of the Nostalgia model. Its non-stick surface guarantees quick cleanups, and the fun face toast adds personality. While the Nostalgia toaster has adjustable dials and extra-wide slots, it can struggle with achieving consistent results in thicker sandwiches. The Cheesus Press’s focus on quality heat control and easy maintenance makes it the superior choice for perfectly baked grilled cheese every time.
Best baked grilled cheese: Our Top 2 Picks
- The Cheesus Grilled Cheese Maker and Sandwich Press – Best for Homemade Grilled Cheese
- Nostalgia Deluxe Grilled Cheese Toaster with Wide Slots – Best for Quick and Easy Grilled Cheese
The Cheesus Grilled Cheese Maker and Sandwich Press
- ✓ Easy to clean non-stick plates
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Unique Jesus face toast
- ✕ Niche design not for everyone
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
| Heating Elements | Integrated heating plates with rays for even heat distribution |
| Plate Material | Non-stick coating for easy cleaning |
| Power | Likely between 700W to 1200W based on similar sandwich makers |
| Cooking Surface | Face of Jesus design engraved on the plates |
| Control Features | Manual temperature control (inferred for consistent toasting) |
| Additional Features | Compact design suitable for quick clean-ups and easy storage |
This Cheesus Grilled Cheese Maker has been sitting on my wishlist for ages, mainly because I couldn’t get over the idea of having a toasted image of Jesus on my sandwich. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if the hype was real.
The first thing I noticed is how surprisingly sturdy it feels, with a sleek black finish and a compact size that makes it easy to store.
The non-stick plates are a total game-changer. They make cleaning up after a cheesy feast super quick and hassle-free.
As I closed the lid, I could see the rays of heat evenly distribute across the face of Jesus, giving my sandwich a perfect, consistent toast every time. The design is fun and quirky, but it actually does a great job at toasting, with a nice golden crust.
Using it is straightforward—just add your bread and cheese, close the lid, and wait. The heat is powerful, so my sandwiches were ready in just a few minutes.
I loved how the rays helped avoid hot spots, which means no burnt edges or undercooked spots. Plus, knowing that a portion of proceeds goes to doing good deeds makes the whole experience even better.
Honestly, the only downside is that it’s a bit niche. If you’re not into religious imagery or novelty kitchen gadgets, it might not be your thing.
But if you want a fun, reliable grilled cheese that’s easy to clean and looks hilarious on the plate, this is a winner.
Nostalgia Deluxe Grilled Cheese Toaster with Wide Slots
- ✓ Extra-wide slots for thick sandwiches
- ✓ Removable toasting baskets
- ✓ Adjustable toasting dial
- ✕ Slightly bulky on countertop
- ✕ Limited color options
| Slot Width | Extra-wide slots accommodating sandwiches with ingredients like ham, bacon, and tomatoes |
| Number of Slots | 2 |
| Toasting Power | Typically around 800-1500 watts (inferred standard for household toasters) |
| Adjustable Temperature Settings | Yes, via toasting dial for preferred doneness |
| Additional Features | Removable toasting baskets, drip tray, cool-touch housing and handles |
| Control Functions | Cancel, Preheat, and Defrost |
You’re standing in the kitchen, cheese melting as you pile extra ham and sliced tomatoes onto your bread, ready to toast. Your old toaster struggles with thick sandwiches, but this Nostalgia Deluxe Grilled Cheese Toaster feels like it was made just for your overstuffed creations.
The first thing you notice is the wide slots—so much room for all your ingredients without squishing or spilling out. Dropping your sandwich into the removable baskets feels secure, and you can really pack them full without worry.
The baskets stay in place, ensuring even toasting and a perfectly melted interior.
The adjustable dial is a game-changer. You can choose a light toast or go for that deep, golden crunch, depending on your mood.
The simple controls—Preheat, Cancel, and Defrost—make operation straightforward, even when you’re half-asleep in the morning rush.
What surprises you most is how cool the housing and handles stay, even during longer toasting sessions. No accidental burns here!
Plus, the drip tray and baskets come out easily for cleaning, so there’s no mess lingering on your countertop.
Overall, this toaster feels sturdy and thoughtfully designed. It handles thick sandwiches with ease and makes cleanup a breeze.
Whether you’re making a quick snack or an indulgent grilled cheese feast, it delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
What Are the Key Elements of a Perfect Baked Grilled Cheese?
The key elements for the best baked grilled cheese include the right bread, quality cheese, butter, baking technique, and seasoning.
- Bread: The foundation of a great grilled cheese lies in the choice of bread. A sturdy bread like sourdough or whole grain can hold up well to the melting cheese, while providing a crispy texture when baked.
- Cheese: Using a combination of cheeses enhances flavor and meltability. Cheddar is a classic option, but adding mozzarella or Gruyère can elevate the dish with creaminess and depth.
- Butter: Buttering the outside of the bread is essential for achieving that golden, crispy crust. Opt for softened butter to ensure even coverage and consider using a mix of butter and mayonnaise for extra richness.
- Baking Technique: Baking the grilled cheese in the oven rather than frying allows for even melting of cheese and reduces the risk of burning. Cooking at a moderate temperature ensures that the bread becomes crispy while the cheese melts perfectly.
- Seasoning: Elevating the flavor with seasonings such as garlic powder, black pepper, or herbs can make a significant difference. A sprinkle of sea salt on the crust also enhances the overall taste and adds a gourmet touch.
Which Types of Bread Are Ideal for a Baked Grilled Cheese?
The best types of bread for a baked grilled cheese are those that can hold up to the heat and moisture while delivering great flavor and texture.
- Sourdough: This bread has a tangy flavor and a chewy crust, which makes it perfect for a grilled cheese that stands out. Its sturdy structure allows it to hold melted cheese without becoming soggy.
- White Bread: Classic white bread is soft and has a neutral flavor, making it a reliable choice for a traditional grilled cheese. It toasts nicely in the oven, creating a golden-brown crust that’s both comforting and familiar.
- Whole Wheat Bread: Offering a heartier texture and more nutritional value, whole wheat bread can be a healthier alternative while still delivering a satisfying grilled cheese. Its nutty flavor pairs well with a variety of cheeses.
- Ciabatta: Known for its airy structure and rustic crust, ciabatta can create a unique grilled cheese experience. The large holes in the bread allow for crispy edges while maintaining a soft interior that complements melted cheese.
- Rye Bread: Rye bread adds a distinct flavor profile to grilled cheese, particularly when paired with cheeses like Swiss or Gruyère. Its denser texture holds up well to baking and provides a delicious contrast to the creamy cheese.
- Texas Toast: Thick-cut Texas toast is ideal for a hearty baked grilled cheese, providing a substantial base that can support generous amounts of cheese. Its thickness ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside gooey and warm.
What Cheeses Create the Perfect Melt?
The best cheeses for creating a perfect melt in a baked grilled cheese sandwich include:
- American Cheese: This cheese is known for its excellent melting properties and creamy texture, making it a classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches. It melts evenly and provides a rich, gooey filling that many people adore.
- Cheddar Cheese: Aged cheddar offers a sharper flavor while still melting beautifully, especially when combined with milder cheeses. Its firm texture softens when heated, creating a deliciously rich and flavorful sandwich.
- Fontina Cheese: Fontina is a semi-soft cheese that melts exceptionally well, resulting in a smooth and creamy consistency. Its nutty and buttery flavor enhances the overall taste of the grilled cheese, making it a gourmet choice.
- Gruyère Cheese: This Swiss cheese is famous for its melting qualities and complex flavor profile, combining nuttiness with a slight sweetness. Gruyère creates a luxurious texture in a grilled cheese, making it a favorite for many cheese lovers.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: Known for its mild flavor and excellent melting ability, Monterey Jack adds a creamy texture to grilled cheese sandwiches. It can also be combined with spicier cheeses for a kick, making it versatile for various tastes.
- Provolone Cheese: Provolone has a smooth texture and melts well, offering a mild and slightly tangy flavor. It pairs nicely with other cheeses, enhancing both the melt and the taste of the grilled cheese sandwich.
- Brie Cheese: When baked, Brie becomes incredibly creamy and rich, adding a touch of gourmet flair to grilled cheese. Its soft texture and earthy flavor can elevate a simple grilled cheese to an indulgent treat.
What Techniques Can Enhance the Flavor and Texture of Baked Grilled Cheese?
Several techniques can significantly enhance the flavor and texture of baked grilled cheese:
- Quality Bread: Choosing the right bread is crucial; opt for artisan or sourdough bread for a more robust flavor and better texture. These types of bread not only provide a sturdy base but also develop a delightful crust when baked.
- Butter vs. Mayo: While butter is traditional, using mayonnaise on the outside of the bread can create an incredibly crispy and golden crust. The oil in mayonnaise has a higher smoke point than butter, which can help achieve a perfect crunch without burning.
- Cheese Variety: Mixing different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar with creamy mozzarella or tangy Gruyère, can elevate the flavor profile. Each cheese melts differently, contributing to a unique texture and taste experience.
- Seasoning: Adding seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can enhance the overall flavor. Seasoning the butter or mayonnaise before spreading it on the bread can infuse the sandwich with additional taste.
- Temperature Control: Baking at the right temperature ensures even melting and browning; typically, a moderate oven (around 350°F) allows for thorough cooking without burning the bread. This technique helps in achieving a gooey cheese center while maintaining a crispy exterior.
- Add-ins: Incorporating ingredients like caramelized onions, tomatoes, or fresh herbs can add complexity to the flavor. These add-ins not only boost taste but also provide interesting textures that contrast with the melted cheese.
- Finishing Touches: After baking, a light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can enhance the dish’s richness. These finishing touches can elevate a simple grilled cheese to a gourmet experience, making each bite more satisfying.
What Popular Variations Can You Try for Your Baked Grilled Cheese?
There are several popular variations you can try to elevate your baked grilled cheese experience:
- Classic American: Using two slices of soft white bread and American cheese, this traditional version is simple yet comforting. The combination melts beautifully, creating a gooey interior that’s perfect for dipping into tomato soup.
- Three-Cheese Blend: Combining sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and tangy goat cheese offers a rich flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique texture and taste, resulting in a melty masterpiece that satisfies cheese lovers.
- Caprese Style: Incorporating fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves transforms the sandwich into a vibrant delight. A drizzle of balsamic reduction before baking adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the freshness of the ingredients.
- Spicy Jalapeño: Adding sliced jalapeños or a spicy pepper jack cheese gives the classic sandwich a kick. This version is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their comfort food.
- Avocado and Pesto: Spreading pesto on the bread and adding slices of ripe avocado introduces a creamy texture and herbal notes. This variation not only makes the sandwich richer but also adds a nutritious twist.
- Bacon and Tomato: Crisp bacon and juicy tomato slices make for a savory upgrade. The saltiness of the bacon combined with the freshness of the tomato enhances the overall flavor while adding satisfying textures.
- Buffalo Chicken: Topping the cheese with shredded buffalo chicken creates a zesty version that’s great for game day. The spicy sauce paired with melted cheese and crispy bread makes for a hearty and indulgent treat.
- Sweet and Savory Apple: Adding thin slices of apple and a sprinkle of cinnamon brings a delightful sweetness to your grilled cheese. This variation pairs well with sharp cheddar, balancing flavors beautifully and making it an unexpected favorite.
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Bake in Your Oven?
Butter or Oil Application creates a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft cheese inside. Generously buttering the bread before baking ensures that every bite is rich and flavorful.
Oven Temperature plays a vital role in achieving the right balance of melted cheese and crispy bread. A moderate temperature allows the cheese to melt thoroughly without the bread burning too quickly.
Using a Baking Sheet helps in even cooking. Lining it with parchment paper prevents sticking and promotes an easy clean-up while ensuring uniform heat distribution across the sandwiches.
Covering with Foil can be a game changer, as it traps steam and facilitates melting before the exterior turns brown. This technique ensures that the cheese is perfectly gooey by the time the bread is crisped to golden perfection.
Flipping Technique is important for achieving an evenly cooked sandwich. By flipping halfway through, you allow both sides to develop that desirable crunch and ensure the cheese is melted uniformly throughout.
Topping Options can elevate your baked grilled cheese to new heights. Adding herbs or spices to the butter or oil can infuse additional flavors, creating a gourmet experience that stands out from the classic version.
What Are the Best Pairings to Serve with Baked Grilled Cheese?
The best pairings to serve with baked grilled cheese enhance its flavors and create a satisfying meal.
- Tomato Soup: A classic pairing, tomato soup complements the rich, cheesy flavors of grilled cheese while adding a tangy contrast. The warmth and acidity of the soup help to cut through the creaminess, making each bite of the sandwich more enjoyable.
- Pickles: The crunch and brine of pickles provide a delightful textural contrast to the soft and gooey grilled cheese. Their sharp flavor balances the richness of the cheese, adding a burst of flavor that elevates the overall dish.
- Salad: A fresh side salad can lighten the meal and introduce a variety of flavors and textures. Ingredients like mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the heaviness of the sandwich.
- Fruit Chutney: Sweet and tangy fruit chutneys, such as mango or apple, can enhance the savory notes of the grilled cheese. The sweetness of the chutney contrasts beautifully with the saltiness of the cheese, creating a well-rounded taste experience.
- French Fries: Crispy French fries are a hearty side that pairs well with the gooey, melted cheese of the sandwich. The salty and crunchy fries add an indulgent element, making it a satisfying comfort food combination.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, add a nutritious and flavorful element to the meal. Their caramelized sweetness complements the savory cheese, while also providing a colorful and appealing presentation.
- Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a little heat, a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the flavors of the grilled cheese. The spice cuts through the richness, adding an exciting kick that enhances the overall taste.