KANSAS CITY — While ingredients like gingerbread, cinnamon and peppermint proliferate menus during the holiday season, a select few restaurants are spotlighting an ingredient that is much less traditionally associated with the holidays: cheese.
The comfort food staple is the star in Sonic’s new Chili Cheese Bites and Bacon Mac & Cheese Bites. The Chili Cheese Bites are a bite-size version of Sonic’s chili with cheese in a crispy corn chip coating, while the Bacon Mac & Cheese Bites are made with macaroni and cheese blended with bacon pieces and coated in a light, crispy batter.
“The combinations of warm melty cheese with hearty chili or savory bacon and tender macaroni are two of the best things since sliced cheese,” said Scott Uehlein, vice president of product innovation and development for Sonic. “The holidays are right around the corner, and these bite-size snacks deliver the beloved, comforting flavors of the season on-the-go to put our guests’ hunger at cheese, during this hectic season.”
Four new cheese-centric options are joining the Johnny Rockets menu for the season.
The Crispy Cheddar Bites are breaded and fried bites of cheddar cheese served with ranch dressing.
The Three Cheese Burger is topped with melted American, Swiss and cheddar cheese, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, grilled onions, pickles and mayo and is served on a warm brioche bun.
The Three Cheese Grilled Chicken Sandwich features grilled chicken breast topped with melted American, Swiss and cheddar cheese, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, grilled onions, pickles and mayo served on a warm wheat bun.
At Subway, cheesy garlic bread is the standout component of the new Ultimate Steak Sandwich, made with shaved steak, green peppers, red onions and a pinch of salt and pepper.
