Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese has become more than a snack—it’s a movement of melty, garlicky comfort, winning hearts one golden, crispy bite at a time. This article takes you deep into the world of this bold, flavor-packed sandwich. Whether you’re after the perfect late-night fix or planning a cozy dinner, our Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe will guide you from cravings to satisfaction, delivering mouthwatering results every time.
But first, a little story behind the blog you’re reading. Recipes Tasteful was born out of a tiny kitchen, a second-hand skillet, and an unrelenting passion for food that tastes like home. What started as a weekend escape—jotting down comfort meals and experimenting with grilled sandwiches—turned into a full-fledged resource for flavor lovers. This grilled cheese fusion of cheesy grilled garlic bread isn’t just another entry in our collection—it’s one of our proudest creations. Our readers, from busy parents to hungry students, keep coming back for it because it strikes the sweet (and salty) spot between nostalgia and innovation.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
What makes the Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich unique
The best types of bread and cheese to use
Chef secrets (yes, even Gordon Ramsay’s input)
Step-by-step cooking directions with pro tips
Creative twists and sides to upgrade your sandwich game
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A Flavor Marriage Made in Heaven: Garlic Bread Meets Grilled Cheese
The idea of a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich might sound like indulgence at its finest—and that’s because it is. Imagine the buttery crunch of garlic bread fused with the gooey melt of cheddar. It’s not just a snack; it’s a sensory experience. This pairing creates a rich, bold flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. The fusion of cheesy grilled garlic bread offers savory notes from the garlic butter and a creamy finish from the melted cheese. It’s essentially two comfort foods colliding into one powerhouse bite.
From Late-Night Cravings to Gourmet Bistros: The Rise of the Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe
Once a humble, homemade sandwich, the Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe has evolved into a trendy menu item across cafes and bistros. It’s gracing food trucks, TikTok videos, and Instagram feeds—not just because it’s photogenic, but because it tastes amazing. With crispy edges, soft centers, and that rich garlic punch, this sandwich has taken the grilled cheese game to another level. Chefs now add tomato confit, herbs, and truffle oils, proving how versatile this sandwich can be.
Why It’s So Addictive: Texture, Taste, and Total Satisfaction
It’s hard to stop at just one bite of a cheesy grilled garlic bread sandwich. The contrast in textures—the crisp outer layer of garlic-buttered bread with the stringy, molten cheese center—is exactly what the human palate craves. Add in the aroma of toasted garlic and freshly ground pepper, and you’ve got a dish that triggers all the right food memories. For many, it tastes like childhood comfort, but better. That rich, savory hit of garlic butter is what sets it apart from a regular grilled cheese.
A Sandwich That Suits Every Mood and Meal
Whether it’s a rainy day snack, a lazy weekend lunch, or a midnight fix, the Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich adapts to the moment. Serve it with tomato soup, add a fried egg on top, or layer in some spicy pepperoni—it’s impossible to go wrong. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, it delivers gourmet-level satisfaction. And with this guide, you’ll learn to make it restaurant-worthy right in your own kitchen.
Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese is a buttery, golden-crisp sandwich loaded with melty sharp cheddar and infused with garlic-parsley butter. It’s the ultimate comfort food made simple.
Ingredients
Scale
4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, room temperature
2 Tbsp. finely chopped parsley
½ garlic clove, finely grated
½ tsp. Diamond Crystal or ¼ tsp. Morton kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
4 thick slices Pullman or other sandwich bread
4 oz. sharp cheddar, coarsely grated
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix butter, parsley, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Spread about 1 tablespoon of the butter mixture on one side of each bread slice.
Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Divide cheese evenly between both slices in the skillet.
Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
Cook for about 4 minutes, or until the underside is golden brown and crispy.
Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook for another 4 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Transfer to a cutting board, let rest for a minute, then slice in half and serve immediately.
Notes
Use room temperature butter for easier spreading.
Don’t cook over high heat—medium is best to ensure the cheese melts and the bread doesn’t burn.
Coarsely grate cheese for optimal melt and texture.
Let sandwiches rest for 1 minute before slicing to keep cheese intact.
The Ingredients That Make a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe Truly Shine
The Bread: Choosing the Right Foundation for a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Not all bread is created equal when building the perfect Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich. The goal? A bread that crisps beautifully while remaining sturdy enough to hold a mountain of melted cheese. Pullman loaves or thick-cut sandwich bread are ideal. They toast evenly and give you that satisfying crunch without falling apart.
Wondering what’s the best bread for grilled cheese? It should have a tight crumb, good surface area, and a mild flavor to complement—rather than overpower—the garlic butter and cheese. Brioche and sourdough are acceptable alternatives, but they change the flavor profile. For this Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe, stick with classic white or Pullman bread for the ultimate bite.
Butter Magic: Why Softened Unsalted Butter Is Crucial
Unsalted butter gives you full control over seasoning. You want it room-temperature, so it spreads easily across your bread. Melted butter won’t coat evenly and risks sogging the bread. In this cheesy grilled garlic bread approach, the butter is more than fat—it’s a flavor carrier. Mix it with fresh garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper for that unforgettable signature crust. Spread generously—don’t be shy.
p-block-heading" id="the-garlic-fresh-fragrant-and-properly-grated">The Garlic: Fresh, Fragrant, and Properly Grated
You’re not making garlic-flavored toast—you’re building a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich that celebrates garlic. Skip the powdered stuff. Use half a fresh clove, finely grated for even distribution. This ensures the flavor seeps into every crispy crevice without biting down on a raw chunk. The result? A rich, almost caramelized taste that fuses into the bread as it toasts.
The Herbs: Why Parsley Matters in a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe
Parsley does more than add color. It brings freshness that balances the rich garlic and butter notes. Chop it finely and mix it directly into the butter. For variations, consider adding a hint of rosemary or thyme for earthy undertones. This technique transforms ordinary garlic butter into a gourmet spread worthy of the best Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich you’ve ever had.
The Cheese: Sharp Cheddar for Bold, Melty Flavor
Here’s the hero of your cheesy grilled garlic bread adventure: cheese. Sharp cheddar is the best choice—it melts beautifully and brings a bold tang that contrasts with the garlic butter. Coarsely grating it helps it melt more evenly and gives your sandwich those irresistible pull-apart cheese strands.
Can you mix cheeses?
Absolutely. Combine cheddar with mozzarella for extra gooeyness or gouda for a smoky twist. Just make sure at least half your cheese is cheddar to retain that distinct grilled cheese punch.
Seasonings: Salt and Black Pepper for Balance
A good Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe finishes strong with seasoning. Use kosher salt to enhance all the natural flavors and several turns of black pepper to cut through the richness. Don’t overseason—remember, the cheese already has salt. Taste balance is key.
Why Ingredient Quality Makes All the Difference
When a recipe uses just a few components, every one of them needs to shine. High-quality butter, fresh garlic, and sharp cheese elevate this dish from snack to star. Even your bread brand can change the final taste. It’s worth the small investment for gourmet results at home.
-image size-full">Simple ingredients that pack bold flavor
Step-by-Step – How to Make the Ultimate Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese at Home
Step 1: Make the Flavorful Garlic Butter Spread
Start by combining the following in a small bowl:
4 tablespoons of unsalted butter (room temperature)
½ clove of fresh garlic, finely grated
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
½ teaspoon Diamond Crystal salt or ¼ tsp Morton kosher salt
Several grinds of fresh black pepper
Mix until you get a uniform, herb-flecked butter. This spread is what turns your plain bread into flavorful cheesy grilled garlic bread. Don’t skimp—spread about 1 tablespoon on each slice of bread, making sure to cover it edge to edge.
Step 2: Build the Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Sandwich Like a Pro
Choose 4 thick slices of Pullman or sandwich bread. Lay two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Pile on 4 ounces of sharp cheddar, coarsely grated. Spread the cheese out evenly. If some cheese falls to the sides, that’s fine—it creates crispy, lacy cheese edges during cooking.
Top with the remaini
ng slices, buttered side up. Now you’ve assembled your ultimate Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich, ready for the skillet.
Step 3: Low and Slow – The Key to Golden Perfection
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium. Once it’s warm (not scorching), place the sandwiches butter side down. Let them cook slowly—this is where flavor builds. Resist the urge to press down or flip early.
Cook for about 4 minutes, checking for golden brown bottoms. Then, carefully flip each sandwich. Let the second side cook another 4 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is crisp.
ding" id="pro-tip-embrace-the-crispy-cheese-bits">Pro Tip: Embrace the Crispy Cheese Bits
A little cheese oozing out and hitting the pan? That’s no mistake. It’s called “cheese frico,” and it adds texture and flavor. Those golden, crispy cheese edges make your cheesy grilled garlic bread even better. Some chefs even sprinkle extra shredded cheese in the pan for this exact effect.
Step 4: Slice and Serve Immediately
Once both sides are golden and the cheese is oozing, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Let them rest for one minute, then slice in half for that Instagram-worthy cheese pull. Serve hot for maximum gooey deliciousness.
Why Technique Matters as Much as Ingredients
You can have the best cheddar and garlic in the world, but if you rush the process, your sandwich suffers. Cooking low and slow helps the cheese melt while the bread crisps without burning. Timing is everything with this Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe, so take it slow and savor every step.
ding" id="chef-secrets-and-tips-for-the-best-garlic-bread-grilled-cheese-every-time">Chef Secrets and Tips for the Best Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Every Time
Use Room Temperature Ingredients for Even Cooking
Here’s a simple truth: cold butter and cheese won’t melt or spread evenly. When making your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich, always allow the butter and cheese to come to room temperature first. Soft butter spreads effortlessly and evenly to toast the bread properly. Room temp cheese begins to melt the moment it hits the skillet, ensuring that creamy center.
Layer Flavors: Go Beyond Basic Garlic Butter
Want to upgrade your standard cheesy grilled garlic bread spread? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat, or a bit of lemon zest for brightness. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes can turn your garlic butter into something gourmet. These subtle layers don’t overpower—they enhance.
ding" id="crispy-perfection-the-trick-to-a-golden-exterior">Crispy Perfection: The Trick to a Golden Exterior
To get that signature crunch on your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe, never cook on high heat. Medium or medium-low is your best friend. It may take a few extra minutes, but your bread will toast evenly and develop that golden hue, while your cheese melts just right. Too hot, and you’ll burn the bread before the cheese even starts to soften.
Pro tip: press gently with a spatula midway through cooking. This creates better pan contact for even browning—just don’t squish the sandwich!
Crispy edges and gooey center in progress
Cheese Techniques: Mix It Up Like Gordon Ramsay
Ever wonder what Gordon Ramsay adds to his grilled cheese? In one viral recipe, he used a mix of asiago and romano, then toasted the sandwich in a hot skillet before finishing it in the oven with butter, herbs, and onions. While that combo may be too intense for your standard Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe, there’s a lesson here—don’t be afraid to blend cheeses.
Try mixing sharp che
ddar with mozzarella, provolone, or even a bit of blue cheese for funk. This creates complexity and melt-factor, making your cheesy grilled garlic bread uniquely delicious.
Don’t Rush the Flip: Timing is Everything
The temptation to flip early is real—but resist it. Letting each side cook for about 4 minutes ensures even browning and a fully melted interior. Peek by lifting the edge with a spatula; if it’s golden and crispy, it’s ready to turn. Flip gently and cook the other side the same way. The result? A perfectly structured sandwich with no soggy middle.
Cut Diagonally, Not Just for Looks
It’s not just aesthetic—cutting your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich diagonally gives you a better cheese pull, easier dipping angle, and more satisfying texture per bite. That long slice exposes more of the gooey center and makes the sandwich feel more gourmet.
ding" id="add-on-ideas-for-bonus-flavor">Add-On Ideas for Bonus Flavor
Want to go beyond the basics? Here are optional add-ons that pair beautifully with your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe:
Crispy bacon or pancetta
Sliced tomato or roasted red peppers
Caramelized onions
Pickled jalapeños
Avocado slices
Each of these brings a new layer of texture or flavor that can complement the boldness of garlic and the richness of the cheese.
ding" id="tasty-variations-of-the-garlic-bread-grilled-cheese-recipe-you-must-try">Tasty Variations of the Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Recipe You Must Try
1. Spicy Jalapeño Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Turn up the heat on your cheesy grilled garlic bread with pickled or fresh jalapeños. Add thin slices inside with the sharp cheddar. The heat cuts through the richness of the cheese and garlic butter beautifully. Want extra spice? Mix a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika into the butter spread.
This version is perfect for fans of bold flavor and works great with a side of ranch or chipotle mayo for dipping.
Layer in sliced fresh tomato, basil leaves, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Caprese-style twist. Swap cheddar for mozzarella or provolone. You still get that creamy center, but with a distinctly Mediterranean vibe. Optional: serve with a warm marinara sauce for dipping.
For an extra savory upgrade, add two slices of crispy bacon inside the sandwich before grilling. The smoky, salty bacon adds a crunchy contrast to the gooey melted cheese and garlicky bread. You can even blend bacon bits directly into the garlic butter if you want a double-hit of flavor.
This combo transforms your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich into a breakfast-worthy masterpiece.
Looking for a meatless but flavor-packed option? Add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and spinach. This variation brings earthy tones and extra depth. Goat cheese or havarti can be added for a more complex, creamy center.
Not only is it satisfying—it’s a great way to use up extra veggies in your fridge while still staying loyal to the core Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe.
5. Truffle Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Feeling fancy? Add a drizzle of truffle oil to the butter mixture or the cheese layer. Truffle transforms a classic grilled cheese into a gourmet, restaurant-style meal. Use fontina or gouda for a melt that pairs beautifully with earthy truffle notes.
Pair with a side of
creamy wild mushroom soup for the ultimate cozy, elevated comfort food experience.
Thin slices of crisp apple (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith) bring a juicy sweetness that balances the bold flavors of garlic and cheddar. Add a drizzle of honey or fig jam for a sweet-savory twist.
This take on the cheesy grilled garlic bread sandwich is popular during fall months but honestly delicious any time of year.
Add a thin layer of pesto inside before the cheese for a herby, nutty burst of flavor. Basil pesto works best, but sun-dried tomato pesto can also add a punch. The pesto mixes with the garlic butter, creating a rich, aromatic experience in every bite.
This is one of the best ways to remix your standard Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe without changing the ingredients too drastically.
What to Serve with Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese for a Complete Meal
Classic Tomato Soup: A Timeless Partner
Nothing beats dipping a crispy, buttery Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich into a warm bowl of tomato soup. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the cheese and garlic butter. Choose a classic creamy tomato soup or elevate it with fire-roasted tomatoes, basil, and a splash of cream.
p-block-heading" id="creamy-dips-and-sauces-flavor-boosters">Creamy Dips and Sauces: Flavor Boosters
If soup’s not your thing, dips are a tasty alternative. Try:
Garlic aioli for more garlicky goodness
Ranch dressing for a cool, creamy contrast
Spicy sriracha mayo for heat
Marinara for an Italian-style pairing
Each of these enhances the flavors in the cheesy grilled garlic bread while offering a new texture and bite.
Crispy French Fries or Sweet Potato Wedges
Serve your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe with a side of fries—classic, curly, or sweet potato. The crunchy exterior of fries complements the gooey, soft interior of the sandwich. Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or Parmesan to your fries for even more synergy.
Want variety? Try ba
ked zucchini fries or avocado fries for a healthier twist that still delivers crunch.
Fresh Green Salad: A Light, Refreshing Balance
To cut through the richness of cheese and butter, a crisp salad can provide needed contrast. Go for arugula, mixed greens, or a kale Caesar salad. Add a lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze to brighten the plate and cleanse your palate between bites of the indulgent Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich.
ding" id="roasted-vegetables-or-grilled-asparagus">Roasted Vegetables or Grilled Asparagus
Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or grilled asparagus bring earthy, caramelized tones that work beautifully with the savory garlic and cheese notes. A side of lightly charred vegetables provides a flavorful and slightly sweet contrast that keeps your meal well-rounded.
Pickles or Quick Pickled Onions
Add zing and crunch to every bite with tangy pickles or pickled red onions on the side. They cut through the richness of the butter and cheese, resetting your taste buds so every bite of your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe hits just as hard as the first.
They’re also super easy to prep in advance—slice, soak in vinegar with a touch of sugar and salt, and chill for 30 minutes.
-image size-full">Delicious twists on a comfort classic
Beverage Pairings: What to Drink With Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese
Sparkling water with lemon: cuts through fat and resets the palate
Iced tea with honey: pairs well with garlic and cheese without overpowering
Lager or pilsner: light beers complement grilled cheese sandwiches without heaviness
Dry white wine: if you’re feeling fancy, a sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio works great
To reduce carbs or calories, try these bread alternatives for your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe:
Whole grain or sprouted grain bread: adds fiber and nutrients
Thin-sliced sandwich bread: cuts calories without sacrificing texture
Cauliflower bread or keto flatbread: great for low-carb diets
Whole wheat pita pockets: give a fun twist and extra structure
All of these options
toast up beautifully, especially when paired with flavorful garlic butter and cheese.
Use Lighter Butter Alternatives
Swap traditional butter for:
Olive oil spread: heart-healthy fats with a subtle flavor
Plant-based buttery sticks: vegan-friendly and lower in cholesterol
Avocado mash: creamy, full of fiber, and still adds richness
You can even reduce the butter amount slightly and boost the garlic and herb mixture to retain that punchy flavor in your cheesy grilled garlic bread.
ding" id="cheese-smarter-not-less">Cheese Smarter, Not Less
Cheese is essential, but you can make smarter choices:
Use part-skim mozzarella or low-fat cheddar: still meltable, but with less fat
Try reduced-fat Swiss or provolone: good melting and flavor with fewer calories
Add flavor boosters like Dijon mustard or nutritional yeast: gives cheesy flavor with less actual cheese
Shred your cheese finely—it melts faster and distributes more evenly, so you can use a bit less without noticing.
Boost Nutrition with Veggie Additions
Make your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich more nutrient-dense by adding:
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Spinach or arugula: a dose of iron and freshness
Grilled zucchini or mushrooms: low-cal, high flavor
Tomato slices: juicy and naturally low in calories
These additions increase volume and fiber, helping you feel fuller longer without overloading on cheese.
Air Fryer or Oven Baked Instead of Skillet-Fried
Try baking your sandwich instead of pan-frying it. Brush the bread lightly with garlic olive oil and bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. Or use the air fryer for a crispy finish using less fat.
Your Garlic
Bread Grilled Cheese recipe will still be crispy, melty, and golden—but with fewer calories and less cleanup.
Portion Control Without Feeling Deprived
Use smaller slices of bread or cut your sandwich into triangles or mini bites. Pair it with a salad or soup to make a more balanced meal. You get to enjoy the full flavor of your cheesy grilled garlic bread—just in a more mindful way.
Choose Quality Over Quantity
Instead of loading your sandwich with excessive cheese or butter, use high-quality ingredients in smaller amounts. Aged sharp cheddar, fresh garlic, and artisan bread give big flavor in fewer bites.
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Can garlic bread be grilled?
Yes, and it’s incredible. Grilling garlic bread brings out deeper flavors by caramelizing the butter and toasting the garlic directly onto the bread. When you turn grilled garlic bread into a cheesy grilled garlic bread sandwich, the textures and aromas become irresistible. Use a grill pan or cast iron skillet to get those delicious golden spots, and pair it with melted cheese for the ultimate combo. In fact, grilling is one of the best ways to prepare the bread for a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich—it adds smoky depth and crispy edges that elevate the entire dish.
What did Gordon Ramsay put in his grilled cheese?
Gordon Ramsay’s grilled cheese includes a blend of unique cheeses like asiago and romano, plus thick slices of artisan sourdough. He grills it in butter infused with herbs and onions, then finishes it in a cast iron skillet for even melting and browning. While his version is quite gourmet, you can apply similar techniques—like herb-infused butter and multiple cheese types—to your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe for elevated flavor. Want to channel your inner chef? Add sharp cheddar and fontina, and don’t skip the garlic butter crust—it’s what makes your sandwich unforgettable.
What is the best bread for grilled cheese?
The best bread for grilled cheese—especially a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese recipe—is thick-sliced Pullman loaf, white sandwich bread, or sourdough. These options offer the perfect balance of structure and softness, crisping up nicely on the outside while staying tender inside. Pullman bread is ideal for an even, golden crunch and holds up well to garlic butter and melted cheese. Other great alternatives include whole wheat, brioche, and French bread. Just make sure your slices are at least ½-inch thick for optimal results in any cheesy grilled garlic bread sandwich.
Absolutely. Garlic bread isn’t just good for grilled cheese—it’s exceptional. The buttery, garlicky crust enhances every bite, adding layers of flavor you simply don’t get from plain bread. When combined with melty sharp cheddar, the result is a Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich that’s deeply savory, crispy on the outside, and luxuriously gooey inside. This twist turns an everyday sandwich into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re using store-bought garlic bread or making your own from scratch, this approach guarantees a more flavorful and satisfying grilled cheese.
Conclusion – Why Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese Deserves a Spot on Your Table Today
The Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese sandwich is more than just a quick bite—it’s a nostalgic, flavor-packed experience that combines the bold essence of garlic bread with the timeless comfort of melted cheese. Whether you keep it classic or dress it up with bacon, truffle oil, or veggies, this sandwich adapts to your mood, your meal, and your craving.
From the perfectly crisp crust to the rich, gooey center, this sandwich offers what few others can: immediate satisfaction and gourmet flavor with just a handful of ingredients. It’s simple enough for beginners, yet flexible enough for seasoned cooks to personalize. The moment that buttery garlic toast hits the pan, your kitchen transforms—and your appetite follows.
If you haven’
t yet tried this cheesy grilled garlic bread twist, today’s the day. Because once you do, it won’t just be another meal. It’ll be a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation.
Looking for a crispy, lighter side dish? These Crispy Vegetable Pancakes add texture and contrast to your Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese without weighing you down
