North Dakota Grilled Cheese Curds

Introduction

Grilling cheese curds over an open flame using a premium Arteflame grill transforms this Midwest classic into a crispy, gooey delight. North Dakota is known for its dairy pride, and nothing showcases it better than locally-sourced cheese curds sizzled to perfection. Whether you're hosting guests or just want an indulgent snack, these grilled cheese curds are quick, easy, and bursting with golden perfection thanks to the incredible even heat of the Arteflame's flat top cooktop.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh North Dakota cheese curds
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt to taste
• Favorite dipping sauce (ranch, spicy aioli, or marinara)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Place three paper napkins in the center fire bowl and soak them with vegetable oil.
2. Build a stack of firewood over the napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the firewood to catch; let the grill preheat for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prep the cheese curds

1. While the grill heats up, pat the cheese curds dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture.
2. Optionally, sprinkle garlic powder lightly over the curds for added flavor.

Step 3: Butter the flat top cooktop

1. Once the grill is ready and hot, add 2 tbsp of butter to the flat top cooktop surface near the center for higher heat.
2. Let it melt and evenly coat the grilling area where you'll place the cheese curds.

Step 4: Grill the cheese curds

1. Place the cheese curds directly onto the buttered hot flat top cooktop.
2. Grill for about 2–3 minutes per side, using a spatula to gently turn the curds until all sides are crispy and golden brown.
3. Keep the curds closer to the center for higher heat, or move them farther out for slower cooking if needed.

Step 5: Serve immediately

1. Remove the cheese curds from the grill once they’re crispy on the outside and gooey in the middle.
2. Plate and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

• Use fresh, squeaky cheese curds for best results.
• Grill in small batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
• Don’t walk away—curds grill quickly and can melt too much if left unattended.
• If curds begin melting too rapidly, move them farther outward on the cooktop to reduce heat exposure.
• For a smoky flavor, use hardwood such as oak or hickory.

Variations

1. Buffalo Cheese Curds: Toss grilled curds in buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
2. Ranch-Seasoned Curds: Use ranch seasoning before grilling and serve with a cool dipping sauce.
3. Bacon-Wrapped Curds: Wrap individual curds in thin bacon slices before grilling for a savory treat.
4. BBQ Curds: Toss the finished curds in your favorite North Dakota-style BBQ sauce.
5. Herb & Garlic Curds: Add finely chopped herbs and minced garlic to the butter while grilling.

Best pairings

• Cold craft lager or pilsner
• Crisp apple cider or kombucha
• Grilled bratwurst with mustard on the side
• Grilled pretzels with beer cheese dip
• North Dakota honey mustard dipping sauce

Conclusion

Grilled cheese curds on the Arteflame grill celebrate the best of North Dakota’s dairy and grilling traditions. Thanks to the unique design of the Arteflame, these golden bites are crisped just right on the outside while retaining their iconic gooey texture inside—crafted entirely on the grill with virtually no cleanup. Perfect for any gathering or snack craving.