Feeding a crowd at a tailgate is always a win, and while everyone has their favorite team,
there’s one thing that unites us all: classic game day comfort foods. Grilled cheese preference may be up for debate, but the ooey-gooey cheese is the real star player. Here’s a guide to setting up your own Borden® Cheese grilled cheese bar at a tailgate, in your backyard or on the kitchen counter!
The Essentials
- Borden® Cheese: The MVP
- Borden® American Cheese Melts – The classic for a perfectly melty grilled cheese.
- Borden® Sliced Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds a tangy, sharp flavor.
- Borden® Jalapeño Jack Flavor Sensations – Provides a zesty and spicy kick.
- Borden® Lactose Free American Singles – Smooth and classic, perfect for those with lactose sensitivity.
- Bread: Offer sliced white, sourdough, and hearty multigrain. Choose sturdy slices that can hold all the fillings.
- Butter or Mayo: Salted butter adds flavor, but mayo works too. Fun fact: 1 in 4 Americans prefer mayo for a perfectly golden-brown crust.
- Griddle or Pan: A flat-top griddle is ideal for making multiple sandwiches. A cast-iron skillet or portable grill pan works too.
- Spatulas: Have several on hand for flipping sandwiches.
- Cutting Board and Knives: For prepping toppings and slicing finished sandwiches.
- Napkins and Plates: Don’t forget the basics for serving your hungry guests.
The Toppings Bar
This is where you can really up the culinary competition and let guests go for the Hail Mary with their own creations. According to a Borden® Cheese survey, grilled cheese fans love to experiment, adding toppings like tomato (27%), meats (27%), bacon (23%), onions (16%), and avocado (10%) to their sandwiches. Arrange toppings in small bowls with serving spoons on a table or counter for easy access.
Additional Topping Ideas:
- Meats: Pulled pork, shredded rotisserie chicken (tossed in buffalo or BBQ sauce), bacon, ham, or turkey
- Veggies: Roasted red peppers, fresh or pickled jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, sliced tomatoes
- Other Savory Options: Kimchi, pickles, guacamole, sun-dried tomato pesto, fresh herbs like basil or chives
Get More Grilled Cheese Inspiration
Building the Sandwiches
- Set up your station: Arrange bread, butter, cheese, and toppings so guests can move down the line easily.
- Prep ahead: Slice veggies, cook meats, and place everything in containers before the tailgate begins.
- Cooking process: Preheat griddle or pan to medium heat. Spread butter or mayo on bread (fun fact: 1 in 4 Americans prefer mayo). Add Borden® Cheese and toppings, then cook 3–5 minutes per side until golden and melty.
- Serve: Remove from heat, slice, and enjoy immediately.
Tips for Tailgating Success
- Prep ahead: Chop veggies, cook meats, and portion cheese and toppings before the game.
- Keep it hot: Wrap finished sandwiches in foil and store in a warm, insulated cooler.
- Make it a contest: Let guests compete for the “best” grilled cheese and vote for a winner.
- Add sides: Offer chips or a thermos of tomato soup for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious and customizable Borden Cheese grilled cheese bar!
