We’re looking for culinary innovators to bring their boldest, most crave-worthy grilled cheese creations to the table. Whether you’re a restaurant chef or a rising culinary student, the California Milk Advisory Board invites you to showcase the best of Real California dairy in the comfort food classic everyone loves: the grilled cheese sandwich.
This national competition offers chefs a unique opportunity to shine, get recognized, win cash prizes, and get your recipe published — all while celebrating the delicious versatility of Real California dairy.
Submit your recipe and you could be one of eight finalists to win $1,000 each and get your dish featured in our exclusive digital recipe book! But that’s just the beginning…
Our panel of expert judges will prepare the finalists’ recipe entries, selecting one Category Champion in each category. The winners? They’ll score an extra $1,000, bringing their total winnings to $2,000!
Chefs are asked to submit a recipe concept as part of the entry requirements. Each participant will create their dish, take photographs and explain their concept to include details about the key Real California dairy ingredients. The entry submission period is August 1 – September 19, 2025 at 11:59pm PST.
Simple. Straightforward. Sublime.
Up to three Real California cheeses only, no additional ingredients.
Think purist perfection.
Go wild. One to three Real California cheeses plus any mix of proteins, veggies, or condiments.
Just make sure the sandwich is at least 50% Real California cheese.
For a list of the more than 250 varieties and style of Real California Cheese and the approved brands that produce them, please refer to the California Cheesemaker list.
