Grilled cheese sandwiches are a simple American classic that requires little-to-no effort. Two pieces of toast, a couple slices of American cheese and butter, and there you have it. But when it’s National Grilled Cheese Day (or any day because they’re delicious), you have to step it up a notch (or two). Why not add a variety of cheeses, some protein…and Sriracha? Here are 19 unconventional ways to enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich for #NationalGrilledCheeseDay.

Roasted Tomato, Garlic and Basil (Margherita) Grilled Cheese

grilled cheese sandwich — Photo: Cooking for Keeps

Cauliflower Crusted Grilled Cheese

Sriracha BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Ratatouille Grilled Cheese

Pretzel Grilled Cheese

Steak Fajita Grilled Cheese

Pretzeled Cheesesteak Grilled Cheese

Blueberry, Ham and Swiss Grilled Cheese

Arugula, Pesto and Tomato (Caprese) Grilled Cheese

Dulce de Leche and Mascarpone Grilled Cheese

Soup or Salad with Grilled Cheese Croutons

Fried Chicken and Waffle Grilled Cheese

Grilled Macaroni and Cheese Sandwich

Prosciutto and Pineapple (Hawaiian) Grilled Cheese

Buffalo Chicken and Bacon Grilled Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Bacon Grilled Cheese — Photo: Half Baked Harvest

Chorizo, Corn and Jalapeño Grilled Cheese

Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Cheese

Lobster Grilled Cheese

Baked Potato Grilled Cheese

grilled cheese sandwich — Photo: B’s in the Kitchen

And who knows, adding your own original twist on this childhood favorite could be good enough to win you first place in the Wisconsin Grilled Cheese Academy Contest.

On Saturday, May 21st, we’re hosting our inaugural conference about how creativity and technology are changing our daily lives, from our hobbies to our work. Will you be joining us? Tickets here.

READ NEXT: These recipes will make cauliflower your new favorite veggie

Grilled Cheese Academy

Get relevant content delivered to you once a week