Grilled cheese has been a staple comfort food in the United States since the early 20th century, originally popularized during the Great Depression as an inexpensive, satisfying meal. Over time it evolved into a nostalgic snack found in school cafeterias, diners, and home kitchens.

Adam’s version gained fame on social media for its unique use of a pre‑sliced Brio’s hamburger bun, which creates a buttery, pastry‑like crust. The combination of a smashed bun and premium cheeses turned a simple grilled cheese into a viral, Instagram‑ready snack.

In the Midwest, grilled cheese often includes cheddar and is served with tomato soup. The West Coast favors artisanal breads and cheeses like gouda or brie. Southern versions may add bacon or jalapeños, while New England sometimes incorporates apple slices for a sweet‑savory twist.

Grilled cheese is commonly enjoyed as a quick lunch, a comforting late‑night snack, or a nostalgic treat at backyard barbecues and college dorm gatherings. It’s also a popular menu item at food festivals celebrating comfort foods.

Traditional grilled cheese uses plain white bread, butter, and cheddar. This recipe upgrades the bread to a buttery Brio’s hamburger bun and adds Havarti for a creamier melt, giving it a richer, pastry‑like texture while still honoring the classic cheese‑and‑butter foundation.

Serve it with a simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette, a bowl of creamy tomato soup, or crispy sweet potato fries for a balanced snack or light meal.

Common errors include using too much butter (which makes the bun greasy), not pressing the bun enough (resulting in a thick, soggy interior), and cooking over too high heat (causing the bun to burn before the cheese melts).

Butter provides a richer flavor and helps the bun develop a golden, slightly caramelized crust that oil alone cannot achieve. The milk solids in butter also contribute to a pleasant nutty aroma.

Yes, you can assemble the sandwich, wrap it tightly in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness; avoid microwaving as it makes the bun soggy.

The YouTube channel Chef James Makinson focuses on approachable, comfort‑food recipes, quick kitchen hacks, and step‑by‑step tutorials that help home cooks create restaurant‑style dishes with minimal equipment.

Chef James Makinson emphasizes using readily available supermarket ingredients while adding a twist—like the Brio’s bun—to elevate classic dishes. His videos often include detailed timing, temperature cues, and practical tips that cater to busy home cooks.