Welcome to the latest edition of Come On Over, Food52 editorial director Julie Vadnal’s newsletter that’s all about hosting gatherings big and small—without losing your cool. Got company? Sign up here for her emails.
One Thanksgiving weekend a few years ago, my ever-so-slightly competitive family got snowed in—and of course we needed to eat. With bread and cheese aplenty, we began a highly competitive grilled cheese contest. Each of us grabbed add-ons from the pantry and fridge, then got griddling. I can’t remember who came out on top—mostly because it wasn’t me—but honestly, everyone’s a winner when you get to sample multiple grilled cheeses. Best of all? It’s a great party theme for an all-ages hang.
1. Soup’s On
Tell your friends that you’ll provide the tomato soup and bread, but they’re in charge of their cheese and other fixings. Miraculously, you’ll only need one pot to pull this off: This Staub Cocotte that comes with a grill pan in the lid. Amazing, right?
2. Think Big
Photo by James Ransom
I’m going to be honest: You’re not going to win this party with a few slices of American cheese and white bread. Instead, go big with ingredients such as smoked gruyère, caramelized onions, Kewpie mayo, bacon, spinach, or like Ruth Reichl, a clove of garlic, plus shallots, leeks, and onions.
3. Set the Table
No need to assemble an elaborate tablescape. Instead, stack your bowls near the cocotte and let guests serve themselves when it’s time to get to dunking. Keep spoons nearby, but know that this is a bit of a casual affair, and if a slice of cheesy bread acts as silverware, so be it.
4. Spice Things Up
Don’t let the sandwiches have all the fun. This spicy tomato soup comes together in a snap, gets its heat from red pepper flakes, and only takes a half hour to put together.
5. Play More
Once the cooking competition dies down, you’ll need a way to bring it back. I say this is the time to settle into a board game that’ll get the group going again.
6. Sweeten Up
Photo by Rocky Luten
This is not the time to go for a heavy dessert, and yet—chocolate would be a good complement to all that cheese. Break up a fancy small-batch bar, and pass it around on a pretty plate.
Which grilled cheese combo would take home the win at your gathering?
