Description
This grilled cheese is the ultimate cozy upgrade. It combines sharp, melty cheddar, crisp sweet apple, and deeply savory caramelized onions between two slices of perfectly golden, buttery bread. It’s a simple sandwich that feels incredibly gourmet.
Ingredients
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4 slices sourdough or rustic bread
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2 tbsp butter, softened
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1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
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½ a firm apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
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For Caramelized Onions:
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1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
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1 tbsp butter or olive oil
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A big pinch of salt
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Instructions
1. Caramelize the Onions:
* This step requires patience but is worth it! In a skillet over low heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add the sliced onions and salt.
* Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden brown, soft, and sweet. If they stick, add a tiny splash of water. Set aside.
2. Prep Your Ingredients:
* While onions cook, thinly slice the apple and shred the cheese. Soften the 2 tbsp of butter for spreading.
3. Build the Sandwiches:
* Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
* Place two slices, buttered-side down. Layer on each: half the cheese, the apple slices, a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, and the remaining cheese.
* Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered-side up.
4. Cook to Perfection:
* Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
* Place the sandwiches in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
* Tip: If the bread is browning too fast before the cheese melts, reduce the heat.
5. Serve:
* Let the sandwich rest for 1 minute before slicing diagonally. Serve immediately.
Notes
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Low and Slow is Key: Don’t rush the onions or the grilling process. Low heat for both ensures sweet, jammy onions and a perfectly melted interior without burnt bread.
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Grate Your Own Cheese: Cheese grated from a block melts much smoother and creamier than pre-shredded cheese.
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Make-Ahead: Caramelize a big batch of onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days for quick sandwich assembly.
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Prevent Soggy Bread: Ensure your caramelized onions are cooked until all their moisture has evaporated, and slice your apples very thinly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus onion time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 460 cal Per Sandwich
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g