Who doesn’t love a grilled cheese sandwich? This gooey, golden classic is the ultimate comfort food — perfectly crisp on the outside and melty on the inside. While it's easy to make with just a few ingredients, the traditional version can pack nearly 700 calories, making it more of an occasional indulgence.
The good news? With a few simple ingredient swaps — like using light mayonnaise or toasting the bread instead of buttering it — you can transform your sandwich into a healthier, crave-worthy meal.
We’ve rounded up some easy substitutions and fresh takes on this timeless favorite to help you enjoy all the flavor with a little less guilt.
Be Choosy with Your Cheese
It’s the star of your sandwich, but do you need to always grab the yellow slices? Try to opt for stronger flavors, like blue cheese or extra-sharp cheddar, to help you retain flavor while using less cheese on your sandwich.
Better Bread Goes A Long Way
Plain old white bread might be your toast of choice, but by choosing a whole wheat or multi-grain bread for your sandwich you’re not only adding in new crunch and flavor, you can also increase your fiber and nutrient intake.
Hold the Butter
Your mom, and maybe even your grandmother, probably spread a layer of butter on your grilled cheese throughout your childhood. But know this: It isn’t necessary. While butter helps crisp the crust, it doesn’t add too much in the way of flavor.
Instead, brush the bread with olive oil, or try using a thin layer of reduced-fat mayonnaise or a creamy spread. Or skip grilling altogether by toasting your bread and then baking your sandwich open faced in the oven for a few minutes at 350 degrees.
Healthier Options
Looking for a new twist? Here are three incredibly tasty (and healthier) versions of the traditional grilled cheese sammy.
Celebrating Blood Sugar Balance This Holiday Season
Caring for your health is one of the most meaningful commitments you can make, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Renown Health, we keep diabetes awareness and support at the forefront all year long to help patients feel informed, empowered and cared for. Approximately 37 million Americans, including 270,000 Nevadans, have been diagnosed with diabetes, and about 95% are living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Show up to any holiday gathering with this scrumptious cranberry-orange compote in hand, and you’ll look like the person who absolutely has their life together. Bright, tangy, and naturally sweetened, it’s a fresh (and easy) take on a holiday classic—perfect for adding a pop of color and citrusy zing to the table.
