Pin It A gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese featuring sweet caramelized onions, crisp apple slices, and sharp cheddar all melted between golden buttery bread.
I love making this sandwich because it combines savory and sweet in every bite, perfect for a comforting quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- Caramelized Onions: 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
- Sandwich: 4 slices sourdough or country bread, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened for spreading, 1 medium crisp apple such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp thinly sliced, 120 g 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese sliced or shredded, freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the caramelized onions:
- In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter with olive oil. Add sliced onion and salt. Cook stirring often for 15 18 minutes until onions are deeply golden and soft. If desired add sugar halfway through for extra sweetness. Set aside.
- Assemble the sandwiches:
- Lay out the bread slices. Spread butter on one side of each slice. On the unbuttered side layer half the cheddar followed by a layer of caramelized onions apple slices a pinch of black pepper and the remaining cheddar. Top with the second slice of bread buttered side facing out.
- Cook the grilled cheese:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 4 minutes per side pressing gently until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted. Reduce heat if bread browns too quickly.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat. Let cool for 1 2 minutes then slice and serve warm.
Pin It This recipe always brings smiles to family gatherings and makes for a quick satisfying meal.
Tips for Perfect Caramelization
Make sure to stir onions frequently to ensure even cooking and avoid burning. Patience is key to develop rich sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of tomato soup or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Variations
Try adding baby arugula for a peppery bite or substitute Gruyère or fontina cheese for a different flavor profile.
Pin It This grilled cheese balances sweet and savory perfectly making it a quick and delicious comfort food.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I caramelize onions properly?
Cook thinly sliced onions slowly over medium-low heat with butter and a bit of oil, stirring often, until they turn deeply golden and soft, about 15–18 minutes.
- → What type of apple works best for this sandwich?
Firm, crisp apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a nice tartness and crunch that complements the sweet onions and sharp cheese.
- → Can I substitute cheddar with other cheeses?
Yes, cheeses like Gruyère or fontina offer a different but equally delicious flavor profile when melted in this sandwich.
- → How do I achieve crispy, golden bread?
Spread softened butter evenly on the outer sides of the bread slices before grilling in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crisp.
- → Are there suggested additions to enhance the sandwich?
Adding baby arugula provides a peppery bite, and a thin spread of Dijon mustard adds tanginess and depth to the flavor.