Grilled cheese sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food—simple, cheesy, and delicious. While fast food chains are known for burgers, fries, and fried chicken, some offer grilled cheese sandwiches that are just as satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a classic buttery sandwich or a unique fast-food twist, this guide covers the best fast food grilled cheese options you need to try.
What Makes a Great Fast Food Grilled Cheese?
A truly great fast food grilled cheese should have:
✔ Golden, buttery bread – Crispy on the outside but soft and warm inside.
✔ Plenty of melted cheese – The cheese should stretch with every bite!
✔ A perfect balance of textures – Crunchy crust, gooey cheese, and a rich, buttery flavor.
✔ Fast-food convenience – Available quickly without sacrificing quality.
Some fast-food chains stick to the classic recipe, while others add unique ingredients like bacon, garlic butter, or multiple cheese blends.
Best Fast Food Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Ranked
1. Sonic Drive-In Grilled Cheese – The Classic Favorite
Sonic’s grilled cheese is simple, buttery, and delicious, making it one of the best fast-food versions of this comfort food.
Why It’s Great:
- Features thick Texas toast with plenty of butter.
- Made with melted American cheese, giving it a rich and creamy texture.
- One of the cheapest grilled cheese options on this list.
💰 Price: Around $2.50-$3.50, depending on location.
2. Five Guys Grilled Cheese – The Customizable Option
Five Guys doesn’t just serve burgers—they also make killer grilled cheese. It’s loaded with cheese and cooked on a buttered bun instead of regular bread.
Why It’s Great:
- Uses Five Guys’ burger buns, grilled inside out for extra crispiness.
- Loaded with American cheese for a gooey, melty experience.
- You can customize it with bacon, grilled onions, mushrooms, or jalapeños.
💰 Price: Around $4.99-$5.99.
3. Shake Shack Grilled Cheese – Best for Cheese Lovers
Shake Shack’s grilled cheese is packed with tons of melted cheese, making it a great choice for those who love extra cheesiness.
Why It’s Great:
- Made with Shake Shack’s buttery potato buns.
- Stuffed with thick layers of melted American cheese.
- You can add bacon or a burger patty for extra flavor.
💰 Price: Around $4.99-$6.99.
4. Panera Bread Grilled Cheese – The Gourmet Choice
Panera Bread’s grilled cheese takes things up a notch with multiple cheeses and thick-cut bread.
Why It’s Great:
- Made with aged white cheddar and American cheese for extra flavor.
- Uses thick, buttery sourdough bread.
- A more premium grilled cheese compared to fast-food versions.
💰 Price: Around $7.99-$9.99.
5. In-N-Out Grilled Cheese – The Secret Menu Favorite
In-N-Out’s grilled cheese isn’t on the main menu, but it’s a favorite among secret menu fans.
Why It’s Great:
- Uses two slices of melted American cheese on a toasted bun.
- Comes with lettuce, tomato, and In-N-Out’s signature sauce (you can ask for it plain).
- Perfect for those who want a meatless option at In-N-Out.
💰 Price: Around $3.50-$4.50.
6. Whataburger Grilled Cheese – The Southern Favorite
Whataburger offers a simple but delicious grilled cheese that’s buttery and satisfying.
Why It’s Great:
- Made with thick Texas toast for a crispy bite.
- Uses two slices of American cheese for a melty experience.
- Customizable—you can add bacon or jalapeños.
💰 Price: Around $3.99-$4.99.
7. Zaxby’s Grilled Cheese – The Underrated Option
While Zaxby’s is known for chicken, their grilled cheese sandwich is surprisingly good.
Why It’s Great:
- Made with Texas toast and melted American cheese.
- Has a crispy, buttery crust.
- Simple but satisfying, especially for kids or cheese lovers.
💰 Price: Around $3.50-$4.50.
8. Starbucks Grilled Cheese – Best for a Fancy Twist
Starbucks’ grilled cheese is more “gourmet” than the classic fast-food versions.
Why It’s Great:
- Made with a blend of mozzarella and white cheddar.
- Uses thick sourdough bread for a crunchier texture.
- Baked, not pan-fried, making it a different take on grilled cheese.
💰 Price: Around $6.99-$7.99.
How to Make Fast Food Grilled Cheese Even Better
Want to upgrade your fast-food grilled cheese experience? Try these tips:
1. Add Extra Toppings
Most fast-food places allow customizations—try adding:
- 🥓 Bacon for a smoky crunch.
- 🌶 Jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- 🧄 Garlic butter for extra flavor.
- 🧀 Extra cheese for the ultimate gooey experience.
2. Pair It with the Right Side
Grilled cheese is best when paired with:
- 🍟 French fries – Classic and crispy!
- 🍅 Tomato soup – The perfect dipping combo.
- 🥤 Milkshakes – The sweet-and-savory contrast is amazing.
3. Ask for Extra Butter or Toasting
- Some chains can toast your sandwich longer for more crunch.
- Extra butter makes the bread even more flavorful.
4. Mix Cheese Types
- If you can customize, ask for cheddar, Swiss, or provolone in addition to American cheese for a richer flavor.
Are Fast Food Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Worth It?
If you love melty, cheesy sandwiches, fast-food grilled cheese options are definitely worth trying. While they may not match homemade versions, they offer quick, delicious, and affordable comfort food on the go.
Whether you prefer classic simplicity (Sonic, Whataburger) or gourmet twists (Panera, Starbucks), there’s a grilled cheese sandwich for everyone.
FAQs
Which fast-food chain has the best grilled cheese?
Sonic and Five Guys are the top choices for classic grilled cheese, while Shake Shack and Panera offer gourmet versions.
Does McDonald’s have a grilled cheese sandwich?
No, McDonald’s does not have a grilled cheese on their regular menu, but some locations may make one if you ask for just cheese on a bun.
Can I customize fast food grilled cheese?
Yes! Many chains let you add bacon, jalapeños, extra cheese, or different breads.
What’s the best side to pair with grilled cheese?
Tomato soup, fries, or a milkshake make the best combos.
Are fast-food grilled cheese sandwiches vegetarian?
Yes! Most don’t contain meat (unless you add toppings like bacon).
Now you know where to get the cheesiest, most delicious fast-food grilled cheese sandwiches! 🧀🔥🥪
