5 Ways to Make a Grilled Macaroni and Cheese Sandwich

Two Comfort Foods Combined

By MacKenzie Smith

Updated 06/27/19

In the past few years, macaroni and cheese has had a bit of a makeover, going from simple side dish to stellar entree, boasting additional ingredients such as Buffalo chicken, lobster, and truffles. But there is also another way to transform this quintessential comfort food into something spectacular: making it part of a grilled cheese sandwich.

Since macaroni and cheese has two basic ingredients—pasta and cheese—and grilled cheese has two main ingredients—bread and cheese—it seems only natural to merge these two well-loved dishes together. And there are endless possibilities to creating flavor combinations, making it fun to play around with different ingredients.

From straight and simple, to rich and meaty, to a way to get your kids to eat their veggies, any of these sandwiches will most definitely have you seeing mac-n-cheese in a whole new way. And are perfect for using up leftovers!

  • 01 of 05

    Grilled Macaroni and Cheese Sandwich Sandwich with Braised Short Ribs

    Grilled cheese sandwich
    Grilled Cheese Social

    This grilled macaroni and cheese sandwich is filled with tender braised short ribs and umami-rich steak sauce. You can use boxed mac-n-cheese or homemade, whatever your family prefers or you have on hand. In addition to these ingredients, this decadent sandwich is layered with two kinds of cheese on a buttered onion roll, which is then grilled until gooey and toasty.

  • 02 of 05

    Spicy Jalapeno Mac-n-Cheese Grilled Cheese

    Jalapeno Mac n Cheese Grilled Cheese
    Grilled Cheese Social

    This quick and easy recipe is for those who like a little extra spice—the jalapenos and pepper jack cheese add a nice kick to a traditional mac-n-cheese. This recipe comes together simply if you use leftover mac-n-cheese, but of course, you can also make your favorite recipe.

    If you are having a hard time imaging how all that mac-n-cheese doesn't fall out of the bread, the trick is letting the pasta get cool and firm up—basically creating a cheesy glue that helps everything stay together. 

  • 03 of 05

    Grilled Macaroni and Cheese Sandwich With Broccoli

    Grilled cheese sandwich
    Grilled Cheese Social

    This sandwich is a winner all around, and a great way to squeeze some veggies into a sandwich that doesn't always have the healthiest reputation—as well as sneak in a green vegetable for those picky eaters! Of course, leftover mac-n-cheese brings this recipe together in a snap, but if you find yourself without any and need to cook up a box or homemade recipe on the spot, let it sit for a little while so it thickens up before layering in between the bread.

  • 04 of 05

    Grilled Mac and Cheese Sandwich With Bacon Jam

    Mac and Cheese Sandwich with Bacon Jam
    Grilled Cheese Social

    Those who think everything is better with bacon have never had bacon jam! The sweet and spicy mixture including bacon, of course, onion, brown sugar, spices, and a splash of coffee makes anything more delicious—especially macaroni and cheese. The creamy, rich, salty, and sweet jam is slathered on top of the mac and cheese and then pressed between two slices of buttered bread before frying until golden brown.

    Continue to 5 of 5 below.
  • 05 of 05

    Grilled Macaroni and Cheese Sandwich

    Grilled Macaroni and Cheese Sandwich
    Grilled Cheese Social

    It's like mac-n-cheese and grilled cheese got married and had a baby—the classic macaroni and cheese is nestled inside the classic American grilled cheese, making for a sandwich almost any kid would love. Perfect for when you can't decide between the two comfort foods, or when you have leftovers you need to use up. No matter why you make it, though, it is a match made in heaven...and your mouth.