A zillion combinations, cheeses, ingredients. Here's how to play with one of America's classic favorites

You likely grew up noshing on it with Kraft American singles, Wonder bread and just enough butter to toast each side, served with everything from tomato soup and standalone. Today, grilled cheese is a standard issue gourmet item, the crazier the ingredients and combinations the better. Go ahead, experiment. Work a unique cheese or a cool blend -- your local store can help you locate what melts best and what does not. Add in a variety of items thereafter, or serve yours with just the cheese and nothing else. The above is a mix of cheese, fried egg, and shishito peppers. To cook, take your time and keep the heat medium to give the cheese plenty of time to melt. When the sides are brown, it should be ready to go.