best grill cheese

BEST Grill Cheese: Top 10 Picks Reviewed

Mastering the art of the perfect grilled cheese sandwich requires a deep understanding of heat transfer and optimal melt capabilities. When searching for the best grill cheese appliances, discerning consumers look beyond basic functionality. The ideal device ensures even browning, consistent temperature, and superior cheese melt without scorching.

Evaluating the best grill cheese solutions involves considering material composition, wattage, and specialized features like non-stick coatings and indicator lights. Achieving that ultimate golden-brown crust and gooey interior hinges on selecting the right equipment; explore our curated list to unlock the secrets to consistently delicious grilled cheese.

Find Your Perfect Grilled Cheese Partner

ImageProductPrice
Best Pick 1
Bearded Butchers High-Temp Cheddar Cheese 1 lb – Shelf-Stable 1/4"
Bearded Butchers High-Temp Cheddar Cheese 1 lb – Shelf-Stable 1/4″
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Best Pick 2
King Arthur Better Cheddar Cheese Powder, 8 Ounces (Packaging May
King Arthur Better Cheddar Cheese Powder, 8 Ounces (Packaging May
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Best Pick 3
Sargento Natural Provolone with Natural Smoke Flavor Sliced Cheese, 12
Sargento Natural Provolone with Natural Smoke Flavor Sliced Cheese, 12
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Best Pick 4
The Good Crisp Company Cheddar Cheese Balls, 4 Ounce
The Good Crisp Company Cheddar Cheese Balls, 4 Ounce
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Best Pick 5
OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates, Indicator Lights, Cool
OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates, Indicator Lights, Cool
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1. Bearded Butchers High-Temp Cheddar Cheese 1 lb – Shelf-Stable 1/4″

Bearded Butchers High-Temp Cheddar Cheese 1 lb – Shelf-Stable 1/4"

Elevate your homemade sausages and ground meat creations with Bearded Butchers High-Temp Cheddar Cheese. This premium 1 lb block is expertly crafted for superior performance in cooking, smoking, and grilling, ensuring a rich cheddar experience that won’t compromise your culinary masterpieces. Perfect for sausage making, bratwurst, and beyond.

Designed for culinary professionals and home cooks alike, this high-temperature cheddar cheese resists melting up to 400°F, maintaining its integrity and adding a delightful creamy texture and savory flavor to your meat products. Its convenient pre-portioned 1/4-inch cubes ensure even distribution in 10 lbs of ground meat, delivering consistent, professional-grade results every time.

Enjoy shelf-stable convenience before opening, with refrigeration recommended post-use.

Pros

  • Superior Heat Resistance: Withstands temperatures up to 400°F without melting, perfect for sausage stuffing, smoking, and grilling without losing its form or texture in your meat.
  • Optimized for Meat Processing: Each 1 lb bag is precisely measured for 10 lbs of ground meat, providing the ideal cheese-to-meat ratio for flavorful homemade sausages, brats, summer sausage, snack sticks, and burgers.
  • Convenient Pre-Diced Cubes: Uniform 1/4-inch cubes ensure quick and easy integration into your ground meat mixtures, guaranteeing consistent flavor and melt throughout your finished products.
  • Shelf-Stable Freshness: Packaged for longevity, this cheddar cheese remains fresh before opening, offering ready-to-use convenience for your next batch of cured meats or gourmet patties.

Cons

  • Post-opening refrigeration is required to maintain optimal freshness and prevent spoilage.

The Bearded Butchers High-Temp Cheddar Cheese is an indispensable ingredient for anyone passionate about crafting superior homemade sausages and meat products. Its unique formulation and precise preparation make it the ideal choice for achieving exceptional flavor and texture in your grilling, smoking, and sausage-making endeavors.

2. King Arthur Better Cheddar Cheese Powder, 8 Ounces (Packaging May

King Arthur Better Cheddar Cheese Powder, 8 Ounces (Packaging May

Elevate your culinary creations with King Arthur Better Cheddar Cheese Powder, delivering the authentic, robust flavor of sharp Vermont cheddar in an incredibly convenient powder form. Housed in a reusable jar, this premium cheese powder is your secret ingredient for instantly enhancing a wide array of dishes.

Crafted for versatility, this 8-ounce jar of powdered cheddar cheese brings the vibrant taste of aged cheddar to your fingertips. Seamlessly integrate its rich, savory notes into everything from creamy sauces and savory baked goods to vibrant popcorn toppings and satisfying soups, transforming everyday meals into cheesy delights.

Pros

  • Intense Vermont Cheddar Flavor: Experience the genuine, sharp taste of Vermont cheddar cheese, unlike any other powdered cheese.
  • Exceptional Versatility: Perfect for adding a cheesy kick to popcorn, baked potatoes, soups, crackers, savory breads, and homemade cheese sauces.
  • Convenient Powder Form: Easily sprinkle, mix, or whisk the cheese powder into recipes for instant flavor enhancement without the mess of grating.
  • Reusable Packaging: Comes in a durable, reusable plastic jar, offering a sustainable and practical storage solution.

Cons

  • May contain dairy.

For anyone seeking to add a serious punch of cheddar goodness, this high-quality cheese powder is a must-have pantry staple. Discover its incredible ability to transform simple ingredients into memorable, cheesy masterpieces, making it an essential for home cooks and avid bakers alike.

3. Sargento Natural Provolone with Natural Smoke Flavor Sliced Cheese, 12

Sargento Natural Provolone with Natural Smoke Flavor Sliced Cheese, 12

Elevate your everyday meals with Sargento Natural Provolone cheese slices. Experience a delightful smoky aroma and authentic Italian-inspired flavor that transforms simple dishes into gourmet creations.

Perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, this cheese promises a taste of quality and tradition.

Crafted from 100% real, natural provolone, these 12 pre-sliced portions offer unparalleled convenience. The cheese’s rich, smoky essence, derived from natural smoke flavoring, makes it an ideal ingredient for artisanal sandwiches, appetizers, and satisfying entrees. Packaged in an easy-close FreshLock wrapper, it ensures enduring freshness when stored properly.

Packaged in an easy-close FreshLock wrapper, it ensures enduring freshness when stored properly.

Pros

  • Authentic Italian Flavor: Enjoy the rich, slightly smoky taste of genuine provolone, bringing a taste of Italy to your kitchen, perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches and more.
  • Premium Quality Ingredients: Made with cultured pasteurized milk, salt, and enzymes, ensuring a 100% real, natural cheese experience without artificial additives.
  • Convenient Freshness: The easy-close FreshLock packaging maintains peak flavor and quality, designed for optimal freshness within five days of opening.
  • Versatile Culinary Use: These natural Provolone slices are incredibly adaptable, ideal for crafting the best grilled cheese, elegant appetizers, hearty entrees, and gourmet burgers.

Cons

  • For optimal taste and texture, consumption within five days of opening is recommended, necessitating timely use of the package.

Sargento Natural Provolone Slices offer a superior cheese experience for discerning palates. Whether you’re crafting the ultimate grilled cheese or exploring new culinary horizons, these naturally smoked, Italian-style slices deliver consistent flavor and quality, making them a pantry essential for any food lover.

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4. The Good Crisp Company Cheddar Cheese Balls, 4 Ounce

The Good Crisp Company Cheddar Cheese Balls, 4 Ounce

Tired of boring snacks? Get ready for an explosive burst of savory cheddar flavor with The Good Crisp Company Cheddar Cheese Balls.

These aren’t your average puffed snacks; they deliver an intensely cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth experience, perfect for satisfying your cravings with every delightful bite. Elevate your snack game!

Crafted for ultimate taste, these cheese balls boast a rich cheddar profile. The 4-ounce bag provides a generous portion of crispy, airy spheres bursting with authentic cheese flavor. Ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or enjoying solo, they offer a satisfying crunch and a deeply cheesy snack experience that keeps you coming back for more.

Enjoy these premium cheesy bites.

Pros

  • Intense, authentic cheddar cheese flavor that truly satisfies
  • Light and airy texture for a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth sensation
  • Convenient 4-ounce bag size perfect for on-the-go snacking or sharing

Cons

  • The intense flavor might be too rich for those who prefer milder cheese snacks.

For an unparalleled cheesy snack adventure, The Good Crisp Company Cheddar Cheese Balls are a top choice. Their superior flavor and satisfying texture make them a standout option when you’re seeking a genuinely delicious cheese snack experience.

Grab a bag for your next gathering or a personal treat.

5. OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates, Indicator Lights, Cool

OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates, Indicator Lights, Cool

Craving that perfect, golden-brown grilled cheese sandwich without the fuss? The Ovente Electric Sandwich Maker delivers delicious, pressed sandwiches and quick meals in minutes. Enjoy gourmet-style toasted treats right in your own kitchen, making breakfast or snack time a breeze.

Enjoy gourmet-style toasted treats right in your own kitchen, making breakfast or snack time a breeze.

Engineered for convenience, this maker features rapid heating for evenly toasted sandwiches, omelets, and more. Its non-stick plates ensure effortless food release and simple cleanup, while indicator lights signal when it’s powered on and ready to cook. The compact, upright storage design makes it ideal for any kitchen size.

The compact, upright storage design makes it ideal for any kitchen size.

Pros

  • Speedy Meal Preparation: Heats up quickly, allowing you to create perfectly toasted, gourmet pressed sandwiches, as well as other breakfast items like omelets and French toast, in mere minutes.
  • Hassle-Free Cleaning and Use: Features durable non-stick coating for easy food release and straightforward wipe-down cleaning after use, significantly simplifying kitchen cleanup.
  • User-Friendly Safety Features: Equipped with a cool-touch locking handle for safe operation and anti-skid feet for stability, ensuring secure use every time you toast.
  • Space-Saving Design: Its compact and lightweight build, along with upright storage capability, makes it an excellent appliance for small kitchens, dorm rooms, and apartments, taking up minimal counter and cabinet space.
  • Intuitive Operation: Power and preheat indicator lights clearly inform you of the sandwich maker’s status, ensuring you know exactly when to add your ingredients for optimal results.

Cons

  • While ideal for standard sandwich sizes, it may not accommodate extra-thick fillings or bread without some cheese spillage during the pressing process.

For anyone seeking a quick, easy, and reliable method for making delicious toasted sandwiches and simple meals, the Ovente Electric Sandwich Maker is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for busy mornings, quick lunches, or satisfying late-night cravings, bringing convenience and great taste to your kitchen.

6. Cuisinart 6.5″ Cast Iron Smashed Burger Press, Round Flat Edge

Cuisinart 6.5" Cast Iron Smashed Burger Press, Round Flat Edge

Elevate your burger game with the Cuisinart 5 Cast Iron Smashed Burger Press. Achieve perfect crispy, caramelized edges and incredibly juicy smash burgers every time, transforming your home cooking into a gourmet diner experience.

Achieve perfect crispy, caramelized edges and incredibly juicy smash burgers every time, transforming your home cooking into a gourmet diner experience. This essential kitchen tool brings professional results to your griddle, skillet, or grill.

Crafted from heavy-duty cast iron, this round press provides superior heat retention and even pressure distribution, crucial for creating those sought-after smashed burger crusts. Its flat edge design is engineered to deliver the authentic taste and texture that defines a classic smashed burger, making it a must-have for burger enthusiasts.

Pros

  • Superior Crust Development: The precise flat edge and sturdy cast iron construction ensure consistent, even pressure, which is key to achieving the perfect crispy, brown crust on your smashed burgers, enhancing flavor and texture significantly.
  • Exceptional Heat Retention: Heavy-duty cast iron offers excellent heat retention, ensuring your burger patty cooks evenly and sears beautifully for maximum juiciness and a professional finish.
  • Versatile Indoor & Outdoor Use: Effortlessly transition from stovetop cooking in your kitchen to grilling outdoors. This burger press works wonderfully on stovetop griddles, cast iron skillets, and outdoor grills, offering flexibility for any cooking environment.
  • Durable and Easy to Maintain: Built to last with high-quality cast iron, this press is designed for longevity. Hand-washing with warm water and mild soap makes cleanup quick and efficient, allowing you to get back to enjoying your delicious creations.

Cons

  • Requires Seasoning/Care: As with most cast iron cookware, this press will benefit from initial seasoning and regular maintenance to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick properties, which is a consideration for those seeking completely maintenance-free kitchen gadgets.

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For anyone craving authentic, diner-style smashed burgers with incredible texture and flavor, the Cuisinart Cast Iron Smashed Burger Press is an indispensable tool. Its thoughtful design and durable construction make it a worthwhile addition to any kitchen arsenal for creating perfect patties time and time again.

7. Cuisinart CMD-388 Melting Dome, 6″, 2-Pack

Cuisinart CMD-388 Melting Dome, 6", 2-Pack

Elevate your burgers and sandwiches with the Cuisinart Melting Dome, 6 for unparalleled culinary results. Achieve perfectly melted cheese and juicy burgers every time.

This 2-pack of stainless steel domes is designed to revolutionize your grilling experience, ensuring even cooking and rich flavor infusion.

These 6-inch diameter melting domes are crafted from durable stainless steel, focusing heat to cook your culinary creations uniformly. They are ideal for infusing delicious smoker flavors and conveniently fit over a single burger patty or a standard grilled cheese sandwich, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Pros

  • Even Cooking & Melting: Concentrates heat effectively to ensure your cheese melts completely and your food cooks evenly, preventing hot spots and undercooked centers. Ideal for creating the best grilled cheese or topping burgers.
  • Flavor Infusion: The dome design traps steam and smoke, allowing for deeper flavor infusion, especially when adding wood chips or liquids for a smoked cheese sandwich or a gourmet burger experience.
  • Durable Stainless Steel: Constructed from robust stainless steel, these melting domes are built to last, resisting rust and corrosion for long-term use on any grill.
  • Versatile Size & Quantity: The 6-inch diameter is perfect for single servings, and the 2-pack offers great value, allowing you to prepare multiple items simultaneously or have a spare. Essential for any barbecue enthusiast aiming for perfect melted toppings.

Cons

  • Limited Capacity: The 6-inch size is suitable for individual servings; it may not accommodate larger patties or multiple smaller items if you’re looking to melt cheese on several burgers at once.

For those seeking to perfect their burgers and achieve the ultimate grilled cheese experience, the Cuisinart Melting Dome, 6 (2-Pack) is an indispensable grilling accessory. Achieve professional-level melt and flavor with these essential burger domes, making every meal a delicious success.

8. Velveeta Original Pasteurized Recipe Cheese Product Classic Size, 32 oz

Velveeta Original Pasteurized Recipe Cheese Product Classic Size, 32 oz

Unlock unparalleled cheesy indulgence with Velveeta Original Pasteurized Recipe Cheese Product. This 32 oz block delivers the iconic, ultra-creamy melt that transforms everyday meals and snacks into decadent, craveable experiences. Prepare for a taste sensation that’s both bold and irresistibly smooth.

Crafted with real milk, this adaptable cheese product offers the perfect consistency for achieving that signature Velveeta melt. Its original loaf form is designed for effortless slicing, making it an essential ingredient for achieving outrageously delicious results in your favorite recipes, from creamy mac and cheese to sensational nacho cheese dips.

Pros

  • Unmatched Creaminess: Velveeta excels at melting into a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture, perfect for dips, sauces, and grilled cheese sandwiches that are notoriously gooey.
  • Versatile Culinary Staple: Beyond its standout performance in classic grilled cheese recipes, this cheese block is ideal for enriching dishes like macaroni and cheese, quesadillas, and homemade nacho cheese sauce.
  • Convenient & Easy to Use: The original loaf format is simple to slice, measure, and incorporate into any recipe, streamlining your cooking process for quick and satisfying meals.
  • Consistent Original Flavor: Enjoy the bold, classic Velveeta taste that millions have come to love, offering a reliably delicious flavor profile for your culinary creations.
  • SNAP & EBT Eligibility: This food item is eligible for SNAP and EBT purchases, making it an accessible option for many households.

Cons

  • Processed Cheese Composition: While celebrated for its melting properties, it’s important to note that Velveeta is a pasteurized cheese product, differing from natural cheeses in its ingredient profile and texture development.

For those seeking the ultimate melty, cheesy perfection in their cooking and snacking, Velveeta Original Cheese Product is an indispensable choice. Elevate your comfort food game and experience the famously smooth, incredibly satisfying taste that makes this cheese a beloved kitchen essential for creating iconic dishes.

9. Chefman Panini Press Grill and Gourmet Sandwich Maker Non-Stick Coated

Chefman Panini Press Grill and Gourmet Sandwich Maker Non-Stick Coated

Craving perfectly grilled sandwiches and more? The Chefman Panini Press Grill and Gourmet Sandwich Maker delivers delicious, restaurant-quality results in minutes.

This compact appliance boasts a generous non-stick cooking surface, ideal for making up to four sandwiches or two large paninis at once. Its innovative floating hinge adapts to all sandwich thicknesses, ensuring even pressing and delicious outcomes every time. Enjoy quick meals for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with unparalleled ease.

Pros

  • Versatile Cooking Options: Functions as both a panini press for perfectly crisp sandwiches and opens 180 degrees to act as a flat grill for a variety of foods like burgers, steaks, and vegetables.
  • Adaptable for Any Meal: The floating hinge accommodates sandwiches of all sizes, from thin to extra-thick, making it perfect for customizing any creation.
  • Space-Saving Design: Its compact footprint makes it an excellent addition to smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces, with easy storage options.
  • Effortless Cleanup: Features a sloped design and skid-resistant feet to direct grease into the removable drip tray, while the non-stick coated grill plates wipe clean with ease.
  • Durable & Safe: UL approved with advanced safety technology and backed by a 1-year Chefman assurance for peace of mind.

Cons

  • While the cooking plates are non-stick, some users report a slight learning curve to achieve ideal browning without overcooking delicate ingredients.

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For anyone seeking a quick, convenient, and delicious way to elevate their sandwich game or explore simple grilling, this Chefman panini press is an outstanding choice. Its multifunctional design and user-friendly features make it a go-to appliance for busy individuals and families alike, promising satisfying meals with minimal fuss.

10. Proctor Silex Deluxe Hot Sandwich Maker With Easy-Clean Durable PFAS-Free

Proctor Silex Deluxe Hot Sandwich Maker With Easy-Clean Durable PFAS-Free

Craving that perfectly golden, gooey grilled cheese sandwich? The Proctor Silex Deluxe Hot Sandwich Maker is your shortcut to delicious, cafe-quality hot sandwiches and paninis in minutes. Achieve toasted perfection with its powerful 700-watt heating and a design that ensures even cooking every time.

Achieve toasted perfection with its powerful 700-watt heating and a design that ensures even cooking every time.

This versatile appliance effortlessly prepares two thick sandwiches or one long sub simultaneously, transforming everyday ingredients into satisfying meals. Its durable stainless steel housing complements PFAS-free, ceramic nonstick plates, promising a healthy cooking experience and effortless cleanup after your culinary creations, from classic grilled cheese to savory tortas.

Pros

  • Rapid Preparation: Make your favorite hot sandwiches, including the ultimate grilled cheese, Reubens, paninis, and Mexican tortas in under 5 minutes thanks to its efficient 700-watt power.
  • Effortless Maintenance: Cleanup is a breeze with the durable stainless steel exterior and the PFAS-free ceramic nonstick plates. Simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth once cooled, making post-meal tidying quick and easy.
  • Versatile Capacity: The generous cooking surface accommodates two thick sandwiches or one larger sandwich, while the floating lid ensures even pressing and uniform toasting on both sides, perfect for piling on the cheese.
  • Space-Saving Design: Its compact form factor, combined with a secure lid latch for upright or flat storage, makes this sandwich toaster ideal for kitchens of any size, keeping countertops clutter-free.
  • User-Friendly Operation: Intuitive power and preheat indicator lights guide you, ensuring you know exactly when it’s ready to start cooking for consistently perfect results every time you make a hot sandwich.

Cons

  • While ideal for most standard sandwich creations, the internal dimensions may limit extremely thick or unusually shaped artisanal breads.

For anyone seeking a quick, convenient, and reliable way to enjoy toasted sandwiches at home, the Proctor Silex Deluxe Hot Sandwich Maker stands out. It’s the perfect kitchen gadget for busy evenings, quick lunches, or satisfying late-night cravings. Elevate your sandwich game and experience simple, delicious cooking.

Elevate your sandwich game and experience simple, delicious cooking.

How to Pick the Best Grill Cheese Maker

Key heating element considerations

The performance of the heating element dictates the success of your toasted sandwiches, directly influencing texture and taste.

A superior nonstick coating is paramount, ensuring your culinary creations glide off the surface effortlessly, preventing frustrating sticking and making cleanup a breeze. Furthermore, even heat distribution across the entire cooking plate is essential for achieving uniformly golden-brown exteriors and perfectly melted interiors on both sides of your sandwich.

Insufficient or uneven heat will result in burnt edges and undercooked centers, diminishing the overall enjoyment. For rapid preparation, particularly during busy mornings or when entertaining guests, a higher power wattage is a significant advantage. This translates to faster preheating times and quicker cooking cycles, delivering delicious, perfectly grilled items without prolonged waiting.

Consider devices with robust heating elements that promise consistent temperatures and efficient energy transfer, guaranteeing delightful results every time you craft your favorite pressed treats. Look for models that demonstrate effective application of their nonstick properties and boast wattage figures that align with your need for speed and perfectly grilled sandwiches.

Size and capacity needs

Determining the right dimensions and output is paramount to enjoying perfectly toasted sandwiches with minimal fuss.

The number of sandwiches your appliance can cook simultaneously dictates its practicality for your specific household. A compact model might be ideal for individuals or couples, typically yielding one to two golden-brown creations per cycle. For larger families or entertaining guests, consider units designed to produce three or more, ensuring everyone gets their share hot and ready without long waits.

For larger families or entertaining guests, consider units designed to produce three or more, ensuring everyone gets their share hot and ready without long waits.

Beyond cooking capacity, the overall footprint of the unit is a significant consideration for storage. Measure your countertop space and cabinet dimensions to ensure a seamless fit. Many modern sandwich makers also feature indicator lights, typically a ‘power’ and a ‘ready’ light.

These visual cues are invaluable, signaling when the machine is hot enough to start cooking and when your delicious creation has reached its peak golden-brown perfection, preventing burnt edges and undercooked centers.

Quick Best Grill Cheese Buying Checklist

  • Non-Stick Surface Ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
  • Indicator Lights Look for power and ready lights.
  • Compact Design Ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
  • Even Heating Guarantees perfectly golden-brown sandwiches.
  • Safety Features Cool-touch handles are a must.
  • Cord Storage Keeps your counter tidy when not in use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make More Than Just Grilled Cheese?

Many grill cheese makers can also toast sandwiches, quesadillas, or even cook small breakfast items.

How Do I Clean A Grill Cheese Maker?

Typically, you wipe down the non-stick plates with a damp cloth after they have cooled. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

Are Grill Cheese Makers Difficult To Store?

Most are designed to be compact and can be stored upright or on their side, taking up minimal space.

What Wattage Is Best For A Grill Cheese Maker?

Higher wattage generally means quicker heating and cooking times. Look for models around 700-1000 watts.

Do I Need A Specific Type Of Bread?

No, most standard breads work well, but thicker slices might require a maker with deeper cooking plates.

Final Words

Choosing the best grill cheese maker transforms a simple snack into a golden, gooey delight. These appliances offer convenience and perfect results every time.

Invest in one today for quick, delicious, and satisfying grilled cheese sandwiches whenever the craving strikes.

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