Grilled cheese sandwiches take a sophisticated turn when you experiment with a variety of cheeses and add cured meats, fresh fruit, or bold spreads.

Creamy cheddar meets tangy cherry preserves and the fresh taste of basil. Apricot preserves are also wonderful in this sandwich.

Fig jam and fresh figs mingle with fontina cheese and Black Forest ham in this sweet-savory sandwich. Brush the bread with rosemary-infused olive oil before toasting on a hot griddle.

Dijon mustard and black pepper cut through the salty richness of the avocado and bacon. Sliced tomato adds the perfect note of acidity.

Crisp apple combined with a creamy, nutty Gruyere balances the earthiness of sage and rye. Choose sweet Fuji apples or tart Granny Smiths.

A new use for harissa -- a fiery North African condiment made from dried chiles and spices -- this sandwich benefits from the appealing fusion of sweetness and spice. Creamy Fontina cheese melts beautifully.

With Gruyere cheese and layers of prosciutto, arugula, and tomato, this sandwich is a merger of grilled cheese and a BLT. You can also try make it with provolone or mozzarella.

A little heat from the jalapeno goes a long way, and the cilantro adds brightness. Serve this sandwich with a dish of salsa for dipping.

The king of melting cheeses can handle the flavor explosion from the sardines and the peppers. Peppery arugula holds its own with the other bold ingredients in this sandwich.

With its peppery finish, this combo is reminiscent of a Reuben sandwich. You can also use ham or pastrami if you prefer.

Store-bought pesto, tapenade, and roasted red peppers are a quick and easy way to dress up a grilled cheese sandwich with bright Mediterranean flavors. The creamy fresh mozzarella melts beautifully.

Take your tuna melt to the next level! Use your choice of sweet or dill pickle relish.

A dose of acidity from the pickles is the perfect complement to bacon and cheddar. Add sliced peperoncini or pickled jalepenos for a spicy kick.