The Ultimate Vegan Grilled Cheese Recipe (Easy)

Indulge in melty, dairy-free delight with our vegan grilled cheese recipe – comfort food, minus the guilt. Get ready to savor every gooey, plant-based bite!

Grilled cheese sandwiches have long been a cherished comfort food, evoking warm memories of childhood and cozy afternoons. But what if you’re following a vegan lifestyle or have lactose intolerance? 

The good news is that you don’t have to miss out on this beloved classic! Vegan grilled cheese is here to save the day, offering all the gooey, cheesy goodness without any animal products. 

In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the world of vegan grilled cheese, from plant-based cheese options to mouthwatering recipes that will leave your taste buds dancing.

If you love this delicious vegan grilled cheese you may also want to try my Vegan Gluten-Free Breakfast Tacos or my 6 Ingredient Vegan Beer Bread Recipe.

WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS YOU WILL NEED FOR THE BEST GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH RECIPE

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make this perfect vegan sandwich (the exact measurements and step by step instructions are in the recipe card at the bottom of this post)

• Slices of your favorite vegan bread or favorite gluten-free bread – look for dairy-free options at your local grocery store. We prefer sourdough bread but you can also do something simple like wonder bread.
• Good vegan cheese – we recommend a meltable vegan cheese brand. Like vegan cheddar cheese, vegan mozzarella cheese, vegan cheese shreds, or all three.
• Vegan butter or margarine – something like earth balance original
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional – nutritional yeast, vegan cream cheese, cheese sauce, cashew cheese,  

Optional add-ins:

• Sliced tomatoes
• Baby spinach leaves
• Red onion or caramelized onions
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Vegan bacon bits or tempeh bacon

For optional dipping sauce

• Ketchup
• Vegan mayo
• Sriracha (for a spicy kick)

HOW TO MAKE

1. Start by slicing or shredding your preferred vegan cheese if it isn’t already pre-sliced. The melty, gooey cheese is the heart of any grilled cheese sandwich.
2. Take two slices of bread and spread a thin layer of vegan butter each side of each slice. Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper on top of the butter.
3. Preheat a large nonstick skillet, cast-iron skillet, or a griddle over medium low heat or medium heat. Lightly toast the bread on each side for 1-2 minutes.
4. Place a generous amount of vegan cheese on one side of bread. If you want to add any optional ingredients like sliced tomatoes or vegan bacon bits, now is the time to do so. Top it off with the other slice of bread to create a sandwich.
5. Carefully transfer your assembled sandwich to the hot pan or griddle. Cook each side until it’s golden brown and crispy, typically about 2-3 minutes per side or until cheese melts through. I like to cover my pan to get the cheese nice and melty.
6. Once both sides are beautifully browned and the cheese is gooey, remove the sandwich from the pan. Let it cool for a moment, then cut it in half on a cutting board and serve it hot.
7. If you love dipping your grilled cheese, mix equal parts ketchup and vegan mayonnaise, then add a dash of sriracha for a tangy and slightly spicy dip. Alternatively you can also serve with a bowl of tomato soup.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

1. It’s Totally Vegan: If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, this recipe allows you to enjoy a classic comfort food without any dairy or animal products. It’s a guilt-free way to indulge in cheesy goodness.
2. Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly simple and can be prepared in just a matter of minutes. It’s perfect for those busy days when you’re craving a tasty meal without the fuss.
3. Customizable: You have the freedom to customize your vegan grilled cheese to your heart’s content. Add your favorite vegetables, sauces, or vegan protein sources like bacon bits or tempeh to make it uniquely yours.
4. Melty, Gooey Cheese: The secret to a satisfying grilled cheese is melty, gooey cheese. With the right vegan cheese, you won’t even miss dairy cheese. It’s a delightful alternative that maintains that classic grilled cheese texture.
5. Nostalgic Comfort: Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or new to plant-based eating, this recipe offers a nostalgic taste of comfort food that can transport you back to your childhood. It’s a reminder that vegan cuisine can be just as satisfying and comforting as its non-vegan counterparts.
6. Perfect for All Occasions: Vegan grilled cheese is a versatile dish that works for lunch, dinner, or even a midnight snack. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy, making it ideal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
7. Sustainable and Ethical: By choosing plant-based options, you’re making an environmentally friendly and ethical choice. Vegan grilled cheese promotes sustainability and animal welfare, making it a responsible choice for your plate.

FAQS

WHAT IS A VEGAN GRILLED CHEESE?

Vegan grilled cheese is a plant-based version of the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Instead of using dairy cheese and butter, it’s made with vegan-friendly ingredients like dairy-free cheese, plant-based butter, and vegan bread.

WHERE CAN I FIND VEGAN CHEESE?

You can find vegan cheese at most grocery stores, particularly in the health food or dairy-free sections. Popular brands like Vitalite, Daiya, Violife, and Miyoko’s Creamery offer a wide variety of vegan cheese options.

CAN I USE ANY TYPE OF BREAD IN THIS ULTIMATE VEGAN GRILLED CHEESE?

You can use your favorite type of sandwich bread for vegan grilled cheese. Common choices include sourdough, whole grain, ciabatta, or gluten-free bread, depending on your dietary preferences.

ARE ALL VEGAN CHEESE MELTABLE?

No, not all vegan cheeses melt the same way. Some vegan cheeses melt better than others.

Look for vegan cheese slices or shreds labeled as “meltable” for the best results when making grilled cheese. The best vegan cheese that melts is Daiya slices or Follow Your Heart Earth Island cheese.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO MELT THE CHEESE?

To melt vegan cheese evenly, cook your vegan grilled cheese recipe over medium-low heat. Cover the pan to help the cheese melt faster. You can also use a griddle or panini press for even melting.

Other Vegan Sweet Treats You May Want To Try!

• Strawberries and Cream Pie
• Vegan and Gluten Free Snickers Chocolate Bars
• The Best Vegan Vanilla Cupcakes
• Vegan Vanilla Birthday Cake Ice Cream
• Vegan Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

 IF YOU LOVED THIS MELTY CHEESE SANDWICH PLEASE LEAVE IT A COMMENT AND A STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails