Pin 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 first served this for a casual lunch and my family could not get enough of the savory and sweet flavors together.
Ingredients
- For the 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)
- For the 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.
- Remove from heat:
- Let cool for 1 2 minutes then slice and serve warm.
Pin This grilled cheese has become a staple for cozy family lunches filled with smiles and chatter.
Required Tools
Skillet or nonstick pan Spatula Knife Cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy butter cheese Wheat bread May contain Gluten bread Double-check bread and cheese labels for potential allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 470 Total Fat 26 g Carbohydrates 43 g Protein 18 g per serving
Pin This caramelized onion apple cheddar grilled cheese is an effortless upgrade to a beloved classic.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I caramelize onions perfectly?
Cook sliced onions slowly over medium-low heat with butter and olive oil, stirring often until deeply golden and soft, about 15-18 minutes.
- → What apple varieties work best for this sandwich?
Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a fresh, tart contrast that complements the sweetness of caramelized onions.
- → Can I substitute cheddar with other cheeses?
Gruyère or fontina are excellent alternatives, adding different flavor notes while melting well.
- → What type of bread is ideal for this preparation?
Sourdough or country bread with a sturdy crumb holds up well and crisps beautifully when grilled.
- → Any tips for achieving golden, crispy bread?
Spread softened butter on the bread's outer sides and cook over medium heat, pressing gently for even browning without burning.