Description
A decadent twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, combining sweet caramelized onions, crisp apple slices, and melty Gruyère and white cheddar cheeses on toasted sourdough bread. Perfect for a cozy fall lunch or dinner, this recipe balances savory and sweet flavors with a buttery, crispy exterior and a gooey, flavorful inside.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Onion
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Sandwich
- 1 medium apple, thinly sliced (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 4 slices sourdough or country bread
- 4 slices Gruyère cheese
- 2 slices white cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the thinly sliced onions, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions turn deeply golden and caramelized. Once done, set the caramelized onions aside.
- Prepare the Bread: Butter one side of each bread slice evenly. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer 1 slice of Gruyère cheese, a spoonful of the caramelized onions, a few slices of apple, half a slice of white cheddar, and another slice of Gruyère cheese.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of the remaining bread slices if using. Close the sandwiches with the buttered sides facing out.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even browning and melting of the cheese. Cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheeses have melted thoroughly.
- Serve: Remove sandwiches from skillet, slice if desired, and serve hot for the best gooey, flavorful experience.
Notes
- Try using smoked Gouda or brie cheese to add a unique flavor profile to the sandwich.
- Tart apples like Granny Smith can be used for more contrast between sweet and tart.
- To save time, caramelize onions in advance and store them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
