As we prepare to shift into soup mode with the coming fall, we also deem it necessary to perfect the art of the perfect sandwich to serve up with any soup: the grilled cheese. Now, we aren’t saying there is anything wrong with a classic American on white grilled cheese, but we can do better than that. The roasted red pepper and tomato soup you’ve had simmering for hours deserves more, and frankly, so do you. Let’s look at some grilled cheese hacks that will change life as we knew it.

Use Many Cheeses
This is an instant game-changer. You want to totally transform your grilled cheese? Add a variety of cheeses. We’re talking smoked gouda, swiss, asiago, provolone, maybe even a little jalapeno pepper jack. The choice is ultimately yours, just remember, love is measured in cheese.
Swap Out Butter for Mayo
If you do not like mayo, just trust us on this, do it anyway. We’re going to feed you a classic line now: you can’t even taste it. The mayo will not only ensure that your grilled cheese is the perfect shade of brown every time, but it’s going to give it a little tang, a little bite, if you will. Thank us later.
Change the Method
Instead of standing over a hot stove waiting impatiently to flip your sandwich, simply heat two pans, one for placing your sandwich in and the other for placing on top of your sandwich. Heat coming from both ends means you get to devour that sandwich much sooner than expected.
Err’thing
Whether you opt for butter or you totally trust us and reach for the mayo instead, sprinkle a little everything seasoning on both sides before you throw that bad boy into your skillet or panini press. If you’re a fan of everything seasoning, then you already know what this will do to the flavor, if you have yet to try everything seasoning, you’re about to be a big fan, we already know.

Grilled Mac and Cheese
You probably know where we’re going with this, and we promise we won’t lead you astray. If you recently whipped up a delicious homemade mac and cheese and now you have leftovers, go ahead and swap your cheese slices for a few scoops of mac, then proceed as usual. If there is such a thing as the perfect grilled cheese sandwich, it’s probably this one.
Add-Ons
Don’t be shy, add something extra delicious to your grilled cheese sandwich like sauteed mushrooms, bacon, broccoli, or spinach.