The Standout Grilled Cheese Pick Representing Each State
Grilled cheese sandwiches are more than just melted cheese between bread – they’re a canvas for creativity and regional flavors.
Every state has its own signature twist on this classic comfort food, using local ingredients and beloved traditions.
Get ready to explore fifty mouthwatering versions that celebrate America’s diverse culinary landscape, one gooey bite at a time.
1. Alabama – Pimento Cheese Grilled Cheese
Southern hospitality meets comfort food in this creamy, tangy masterpiece. Pimento cheese, affectionately called the caviar of the South, transforms an ordinary grilled cheese into something spectacular.
The sharp cheddar blended with sweet peppers and mayo creates a spread that melts beautifully. Every bite delivers that perfect balance of richness and zing that Alabama folks have perfected over generations.
2. Alaska – Smoked Salmon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Up in the Last Frontier, they know a thing or two about incredible seafood. Smoked salmon brings a luxurious, smoky flavor that pairs surprisingly well with sharp cheddar.
This isn’t your average childhood sandwich – it’s sophisticated and hearty enough to fuel any wilderness adventure. The fish adds omega-3s and protein, making it both delicious and nutritious for those long Alaskan days.
3. Arizona – Green Chile Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese
Desert heat meets melty goodness in this spicy southwestern creation. Roasted green chiles add a smoky kick that perfectly complements the creamy pepper jack cheese.
The combination creates layers of flavor – mild, spicy, and utterly addictive. It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you reach for a cold drink while immediately wanting another bite of that zesty perfection.
4. Arkansas – Buttered White Bread with American and Fried Bologna
Sometimes the simplest pleasures hit hardest. Fried bologna brings a crispy, salty element that elevates basic American cheese to nostalgic perfection.
This is pure comfort food without pretension – the kind of sandwich grandma made on lazy Saturday afternoons. The buttery, crispy bread cradles the melted cheese and bologna in a way that feels like a warm hug.
5. California – Sourdough Grilled Cheese with Jack and Cheddar
San Francisco’s famous sourdough provides the perfect tangy foundation for this West Coast classic. The combination of mild jack and sharp cheddar creates a flavor profile that’s both balanced and bold.
That signature sourdough tang cuts through the richness beautifully. It’s California casual meets gourmet sensibility – laid-back but undeniably sophisticated in every cheesy, crusty bite.
6. Colorado – Hatch Green Chile and Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Rocky Mountain residents take their green chiles seriously, especially the prized Hatch variety from neighboring New Mexico. The earthy, smoky flavor of roasted Hatch chiles pairs magnificently with sharp cheddar.
There’s a subtle heat that warms you from the inside – perfect after a day on the slopes. This sandwich captures Colorado’s love for bold flavors and outdoor adventure.
7. Connecticut – Lobster Grilled Cheese
New England luxury gets the grilled cheese treatment with succulent lobster meat tucked inside melted cheese. Sweet lobster chunks create pockets of oceanic flavor throughout the sandwich.
It’s fancy without being fussy – Connecticut’s way of making comfort food feel special. The richness of butter-toasted bread complements the delicate sweetness of the lobster perfectly in this coastal masterpiece.
8. Delaware – Crab Melt Grilled Cheese
The First State celebrates its coastal heritage with sweet, tender crab meat folded into gooey melted cheese. Lump crab adds a touch of elegance while keeping the sandwich approachable and comforting.
Each bite delivers that signature sweetness Delaware crabs are famous for. It’s beachy sophistication meets backyard simplicity – proof that small states can pack big flavor.
9. Florida – Cuban-Style Grilled Cheese
Sunshine State vibes meet Latin flavor in this pressed sandwich inspired by the iconic Cuban. Ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and tangy pickles come together in melted harmony.
The pressing technique creates those gorgeous grill marks and extra crispiness. It’s Miami in sandwich form – vibrant, multicultural, and absolutely irresistible with every crunchy, savory bite.
10. Georgia – Vidalia Onion and Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Those famous sweet Vidalia onions are Georgia’s gift to the food world. When caramelized and layered with sharp cheddar, they create a sweet-savory combination that’s pure magic.
The onions practically melt into the cheese, adding depth and subtle sweetness. It’s Southern charm in sandwich form – hospitable, warm, and guaranteed to make you smile with every gooey bite.
11. Hawaii – Pineapple and Ham Grilled cheese with Swiss
Aloha spirit transforms grilled cheese with juicy pineapple and savory ham. The fruit’s natural sweetness caramelizes beautifully against the salty ham and creamy Swiss.
It’s like a Hawaiian pizza decided to become a sandwich – and succeeded spectacularly. The tropical twist brings island vibes to comfort food, proving that sweet and savory combinations are always a winner.
12. Idaho – Loaded Potato Grilled Cheese with Cheddar
Famous for potatoes, Idaho turns them into the star of this carb-loaded masterpiece. Crispy potato pieces, bacon, cheddar, and a dollop of sour cream create ultimate comfort.
It’s basically a loaded baked potato between bread – and it’s absolutely genius. The textures play beautifully together: crunchy potatoes, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, all wrapped in buttery toast.
13. Illinois – Italian Beef Grilled Cheese
Chicago’s legendary Italian beef finds new life in grilled cheese form. Tender, seasoned beef gets tucked into melted cheese, often with a kick of giardiniera peppers.
The bread soaks up those savory juices while staying crispy on the outside. It’s Windy City pride in every bite – bold, flavorful, and unapologetically messy in the best possible way.
14. Indiana – Fried Cheese Curd Grilled Cheese
Hoosiers love their fried cheese curds, so naturally they belong in a grilled cheese. The curds add pockets of squeaky, gooey goodness throughout the sandwich.
It’s cheese on cheese on cheese—and somehow it totally works. The breading on the curds provides extra crunch against the melty cheese and crispy bread, creating textural heaven.
15. Iowa – Bacon-Cheddar Grilled Cheese on Texas Toast
Everything’s bigger and better on Texas toast, and Iowa knows it. Thick-cut bread provides the perfect foundation for crispy bacon and sharp cheddar.
The extra-thick slices mean more surface area for butter and crispiness. It’s Midwestern heartiness at its finest – substantial, satisfying, and packed with that irresistible bacon-cheddar combo everyone loves.
16. Kansas – BBQ Burnt Ends Grilled Cheese
Kansas City BBQ culture shines through in this smoky, savory creation. Tender burnt ends – those caramelized, crispy beef brisket pieces – bring intense flavor to melted cheese.
A drizzle of tangy BBQ sauce ties everything together beautifully. It’s barbecue meets comfort food in a match made in Midwestern heaven, delivering smokehouse flavor in every single bite.
17. Kentucky – Hot Brown Grilled Cheese
The legendary Louisville Hot Brown gets reimagined as grilled cheese. Turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce come together in gooey perfection.
It’s Kentucky Derby elegance meets everyday comfort food. The rich cheese sauce adds decadence while the bacon provides that essential crunch and smoky flavor that makes this sandwich truly special.
18. Louisiana – Crawfish Grilled Cheese
Bayou flavors come alive with tender crawfish tails nestled in melted cheese. A touch of Cajun seasoning adds that signature Louisiana kick.
The crawfish bring sweetness and a hint of the swamp in the best way possible. It’s like a crawfish boil decided to become a sandwich – spicy, indulgent, and full of that authentic Louisiana soul.
19. Maine – Lobster and Smoked Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Vacationland takes grilled cheese upscale with sweet lobster and smoky cheddar. The smoked cheese adds depth without overpowering the delicate lobster flavor.
It’s coastal Maine luxury that’s still somehow down-to-earth and approachable. The combination tastes like summer on the coast – fresh, indulgent, and worth every penny for that sweet, buttery lobster experience.
20. Maryland – Old Bay Crab Grilled Cheese
Old Bay seasoning is practically Maryland’s official flavor, making it essential in this crab-loaded creation. Sweet crab meat gets a spicy, savory boost from the iconic seasoning blend.
The cheese melts around the crab like a warm, gooey hug. It’s Chesapeake Bay pride in sandwich form – celebrating Maryland’s crabbing heritage with every perfectly seasoned, utterly delicious bite.
21. Massachusetts – Sharp Cheddar on Boston Brown Bread
Boston brown bread’s slightly sweet, molasses-rich flavor creates an unexpected but wonderful base for sharp cheddar. The dark, dense bread provides a hearty foundation that’s distinctly New England.
Sharp cheddar cuts through the sweetness perfectly. It’s Colonial-era tradition meets modern comfort food – a uniquely Massachusetts combination that honors the state’s deep culinary roots.
22. Michigan – Grilled Cheese with Michigan White Cheddar
The Great Lakes State produces exceptional white cheddar that’s creamy and flavorful. Michigan’s dairy farms provide cheese that melts beautifully and tastes incredibly fresh.
This version keeps things pure and simple, letting the quality cheese shine. It’s a celebration of Michigan’s agricultural heritage – proof that sometimes the best grilled cheese just needs really, really good cheese.
23. Minnesota – Wild Rice Bread Grilled Cheese
Wild rice, Minnesota’s state grain, gets baked into bread for this unique twist. The nutty, earthy flavor of wild rice adds complexity you won’t find in regular grilled cheese.
The grains provide interesting texture and a taste of Minnesota’s lakes and forests. It’s North Star State innovation – taking regional ingredients and creating something both familiar and wonderfully different.
24. Mississippi – Catfish Melt Grilled Cheese
Fried catfish is Mississippi soul food at its finest, and it belongs in this grilled cheese. Crispy, seasoned catfish adds protein and that signature Southern fried flavor.
The fish stays crunchy while the cheese melts around it beautifully. It’s Delta tradition meets comfort food innovation – proving that sometimes the best ideas come from combining two beloved classics.
25. Missouri – Provel Grilled Cheese
St. Louis claims Provel cheese as its own – a processed blend that melts like a dream. The cheese has a unique, creamy texture and slightly smoky flavor that locals absolutely love.
It’s polarizing but undeniably Missouri. The way Provel melts into creamy, stretchy perfection makes it ideal for grilled cheese, creating that signature gooey pull St. Louis residents crave.
26. Montana – Huckleberry Jam and Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Wild huckleberries are Montana’s treasure, and their tart-sweet jam creates magic with sharp cheddar. The combination might sound unusual, but sweet and savory always work beautifully together.
The jam adds a fruity brightness that complements the cheese perfectly. It’s Big Sky Country creativity – wild, unexpected, and absolutely delicious for anyone brave enough to try this adventurous combination.
27. Nebraska – Runza-Style Grilled Cheese
Nebraska’s famous Runza – a beef and cabbage pocket – inspires this hearty grilled cheese. Seasoned ground beef and tender cabbage join melted cheese between buttery bread.
It’s like a Runza decided to become a sandwich, and honestly, it works. The savory beef and slightly sweet cabbage create a filling, flavorful combination that’s pure Cornhusker comfort.
28. Nevada – Carne Asada Grilled Cheese
Las Vegas brings bold flavors, and carne asada delivers exactly that. Marinated, grilled steak gets tucked into melted cheese for a protein-packed punch.
The beef’s citrus-and-spice marinade adds complexity beyond basic grilled cheese. It’s Silver State swagger in sandwich form – a little fancy, totally satisfying, and perfect for fueling your next Vegas adventure or desert exploration.
29. New Hampshire – Maple-Bacon Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Pure maple syrup isn’t just for pancakes in New Hampshire. Maple-glazed bacon brings sweet-smoky perfection to sharp cheddar in this New England creation.
The maple adds a touch of sweetness without being overwhelming. It’s granite state goodness – celebrating New Hampshire’s maple heritage while delivering that irresistible bacon-cheese combo everyone craves in every sticky-sweet, savory bite.
30. New Jersey – Pork Roll and American Cheese Grilled Cheese
Pork roll (or Taylor ham, depending on which part of Jersey you’re from) is a beloved breakfast meat that belongs in grilled cheese. The salty, slightly tangy meat pairs perfectly with creamy American cheese.
It’s diner food elevated to art form. The pork roll crisps up beautifully, adding texture and that signature Jersey flavor locals defend fiercely.
31. New Mexico – Green-Chile Grilled Cheese
Red or green? In New Mexico, the answer is always green for this grilled cheese. Roasted Hatch chiles bring smoky heat and earthy flavor to melted cheese.
The chiles are practically sacred here, and for good reason – they’re incredible. It’s Land of Enchantment flavor in every bite, delivering that perfect balance of heat and cheese that New Mexicans perfect.
32. New York – Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese
Buffalo wings meet grilled cheese in this spicy, tangy creation from upstate New York. Chicken tossed in Frank’s RedHot gets paired with melted cheese and a drizzle of blue cheese dressing.
It’s bar food transformed into comfort food perfection. The heat, the tang, the cooling cheese – it’s everything you love about Buffalo wings in sandwich form.
33. North Carolina – Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Eastern or western style, North Carolina BBQ is legendary, and it transforms grilled cheese into something spectacular. Tender pulled pork adds smoky, savory depth to gooey melted cheese.
A splash of vinegar-based sauce keeps things authentically Carolina. It’s Tar Heel pride between bread – celebrating the state’s BBQ heritage with every messy, delicious, perfectly sauced bite.
34. North Dakota – Knoephla Soup-Inspired Grilled Cheese
Knoephla soup – a creamy potato dumpling soup – inspires this unique grilled cheese. Mashed potatoes and herbs get folded into melted cheese for ultimate comfort.
It’s like the soup decided to become a sandwich. The creamy potato filling adds substance and that warming quality that makes knoephla soup perfect for harsh North Dakota winters and beyond.
35. Ohio – Cincinnati Chili Grilled Cheese
Cincinnati-style chili – with its unusual spices like cinnamon and chocolate – creates a grilled cheese unlike any other. The chili’s unique flavor profile pairs surprisingly well with sharp cheddar.
Add some diced onions for authentic Cincy style. It’s Buckeye State quirky – a little weird, totally delicious, and fiercely defended by locals who know this combination just works.
36. Oklahoma – Smoked Bologna Grilled Cheese
Oklahoma takes bologna seriously, especially when it’s smoked. Thick-cut smoked bologna brings a smoky, slightly spicy flavor that elevates simple grilled cheese to something special.
The bologna gets crispy edges while staying tender inside. It’s Sooner State soul food – unpretentious, flavorful, and proof that simple ingredients can create something truly memorable and satisfying.
37. Oregon – Tillamook Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Tillamook cheese is Oregon’s pride, and their sharp cheddar makes phenomenal grilled cheese. The cheese melts beautifully while maintaining its robust, tangy flavor.
It’s Pacific Northwest quality in every bite. Oregon knows that great grilled cheese starts with great cheese, and Tillamook delivers that creamy, sharp perfection that makes this sandwich absolutely unforgettable.
38. Pennsylvania – Cheesesteak Grilled Cheese
Philadelphia’s iconic cheesesteak transforms into grilled cheese form. Thinly sliced steak, melted cheese (Whiz, provolone, or American – your choice), and sautéed onions create magic.
It’s Philly pride between buttered bread. The steak stays tender, the cheese stays gooey, and the onions add sweetness that ties everything together in perfect Pennsylvania harmony.
39. Rhode Island – Clam Cake Grilled Cheese
Clam cakes are a Rhode Island summer tradition, and they make a surprisingly excellent grilled cheese addition. The fried clam fritters add seafood flavor and crispy texture.
It’s Ocean State creativity at its finest. The clams bring briny sweetness while the fried exterior provides crunch against the melted cheese – beach food meets comfort food perfectly.
40. South Carolina – Pimento Cheese and Bacon Grilled Cheese
South Carolina takes the Southern classic pimento cheese and adds crispy bacon for extra indulgence. The creamy, tangy spread melts beautifully while the bacon adds smoky crunch.
It’s Lowcountry luxury without the fuss. The combination of that signature pimento cheese with salty bacon creates layers of flavor that make this sandwich absolutely irresistible and utterly Southern.
41. South Dakota – Buffalo Grilled Cheese
Buffalo (or bison) roams South Dakota’s prairies and makes its way into this hearty grilled cheese. The lean, flavorful meat provides protein without being greasy.
Buffalo has a slightly sweeter taste than beef. It’s Mount Rushmore State heritage in sandwich form – celebrating the animals that once covered the Great Plains while creating something delicious and uniquely South Dakotan.
42. Tennessee – Nashville Hot Chicken Grilled Cheese
Nashville hot chicken brings serious heat to this Tennessee creation. Crispy chicken coated in cayenne-spiked oil gets cooled by melted cheese and tangy pickles.
The heat level is adjustable, but authentic Nashville style brings the fire. It’s Volunteer State spice – bold, unapologetic, and absolutely worth the sweat for anyone who loves that signature Nashville kick.
43. Texas – Brisket Grilled Cheese
Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the flavor in this brisket-loaded grilled cheese. Slow-smoked brisket brings tender, smoky perfection to melted cheese.
The meat practically melts in your mouth alongside the gooey cheese. It’s Lone Star State pride in every bite – celebrating Texas BBQ culture while proving that brisket belongs in absolutely everything, including grilled cheese.
44. Utah – Funeral Potato Grilled Cheese
Funeral potatoes – that creamy, cheesy casserole beloved at Utah gatherings – inspires this comfort-loaded grilled cheese. Creamy potatoes, cheese, and crispy topping come together between buttered bread.
It’s carbs on carbs, and it’s glorious. The dish celebrates Utah’s comfort food culture while creating something that’s both familiar and totally new for potato-loving sandwich enthusiasts.
45. Vermont – Vermont Cheddar Grilled Cheese
Vermont produces some of America’s finest cheddar, and it deserves to shine in pure grilled cheese form. Sharp, aged Vermont cheddar melts into creamy, tangy perfection.
The quality speaks for itself here. It’s Green Mountain State simplicity – letting exceptional cheese be the star without unnecessary additions, proving that sometimes the best grilled cheese is the simplest one.
46. Virginia – Country Ham Grilled Cheese
Virginia’s salt-cured country ham is a Southern treasure that transforms grilled cheese. The salty, intensely flavored ham adds depth that regular ham just can’t match.
Thin slices work best, letting the ham’s flavor shine without overwhelming. It’s Old Dominion tradition – celebrating Virginia’s curing heritage while creating a sandwich that’s both sophisticated and comfortingly familiar to Southerners.
47. Washington – Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Grilled Sandwich
Washington’s famous salmon meets cream cheese in this Pacific Northwest creation. The combination is like a bagel and lox decided to become a grilled sandwich.
Smoked salmon brings richness while cream cheese adds tanginess. It’s Evergreen State elegance – celebrating Washington’s fishing heritage and coffee-shop culture in one sophisticated, utterly delicious, perfectly balanced sandwich that tastes like Seattle mornings.
48. West Virginia – Pepperoni Roll Grilled Cheese
The pepperoni roll is West Virginia’s official state food, and it makes perfect sense in grilled cheese form. Spicy pepperoni brings zesty flavor and those crispy edges everyone loves.
The pepperoni grease soaks into the bread deliciously. It’s Mountain State pride – simple, satisfying, and packed with that pepperoni punch that makes this sandwich perfect for lunch boxes or late-night cravings.
49. Wisconsin – Triple-Cheese Curd Grilled Cheese
America’s Dairyland goes all-in with cheese curds in this ultimate grilled cheese. Fresh curds provide that signature squeak and melty goodness throughout.
Multiple cheese varieties create complexity and richness. It’s Badger State heaven – celebrating Wisconsin’s cheese heritage with every squeaky, gooey, utterly cheesy bite that proves Wisconsin really is the cheese capital of America.
50. Wyoming – Bison Patty Melt Grilled Cheese
Bison roams Wyoming’s ranges and stars in this Western patty melt-style grilled cheese. The lean, flavorful meat gets topped with caramelized onions and Swiss cheese.
Rye bread adds an earthy note that complements the bison perfectly. It’s Cowboy State rugged – celebrating Wyoming’s ranching heritage while creating a hearty, satisfying sandwich that fuels any adventure or appetite.
