Grilled cheese sandwiches are a quintessential comfort food, loved by many for their simplicity and nostalgic appeal. This easy Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese Recipe elevates the classic to new heights with a delightful fall twist.
Imagine the crispy, buttery exterior of sourdough bread giving way to a perfect harmony of sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and crisp, slightly tart apple slices.
The addition of caramelized onion jam adds a rich, sweet contrast that ties it all together. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or a cozy dinner, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings while introducing a whole new layer of flavor to a familiar favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese Recipe is more than just a grilled cheese—it’s an experience. The unique combination of salty bacon, sweet apples, and sharp cheddar cheese transforms a simple bacon cheese sandwich into something extraordinary. The best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick and delicious meal. The crispy edges of the bread add a satisfying crunch, while the melted cheese and juicy apples provide the perfect balance of textures. Plus, this grilled cheese with apple and bacon pairs beautifully with your favorite soup, making it a versatile and comforting meal.
The Key Ingredients You Need for the Best Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese
To create the ultimate Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese, you’ll need just a few key ingredients that pack a lot of flavor. Here’s what to have on hand:
- Salted Butter: A generous amount of salted butter ensures the bread crisps up beautifully while adding rich flavor to each bite.
- Sourdough Bread: The tangy, chewy texture of sourdough provides the perfect base for this sandwich, offering a hearty contrast to the other ingredients.
- Caramelized Onion Jam: This savory-sweet spread enhances the sandwich, bringing a depth of flavor that complements both the apples and bacon.
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for a crisp, smoky texture. The saltiness of the bacon plays perfectly with the sweetness of the apples and the sharpness of the cheese.
- Honeycrisp Apple: Known for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, Honeycrisp apples are ideal for grilling. They retain their crunch and don’t become mushy when cooked.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the bacon.
- Optional Add-ins: For extra depth of flavor, consider drizzling your sandwich with hot honey for a sweet-spicy kick, or garnish it with fresh thyme for an aromatic touch.
Equipment
To assemble and cook your Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for slicing your ingredients, especially the apples.
- Knife: A sharp knife will make slicing the apples and cutting the sandwich easy and clean.
- Heavy-Bottomed Pan (such as Cast Iron): A heavy skillet ensures even heat distribution, which is essential for achieving a perfectly crispy exterior.
- Spatula: For flipping the sandwich and pressing it down to ensure even grilling.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese:
- Cook the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon on a baking sheet and cook for 15-20 minutes or until crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside.
- Preheat the Pan: While the bacon is cooking, heat your heavy-bottomed pan over medium-low heat. The pan needs to be hot enough to toast the bread but not so hot that it burns the butter.
- Butter the Bread: Spread a generous amount of salted butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This will ensure a crispy, golden crust once grilled.
- Add Caramelized Onion Jam: Spread a thin layer of caramelized onion jam on the opposite side of one slice of bread. This step introduces a sweet-savory element that elevates the sandwich.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On the slice of bread without the jam, layer a generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese, followed by thin apple slices, and then the crispy bacon.
- Top and Grill: Place the slice with the jam on top of the bacon and cheese layer. Place the sandwich in the preheated pan. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even browning and melting. You want the cheese to be fully melted, and the bread should be golden and crispy.
- Optional: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle the sandwich with hot honey once it’s off the grill or garnish with fresh thyme for an herbal finish.
- Slice and Serve: Once the sandwich is perfectly grilled, slice it in half and serve immediately. Pair it with your favorite soup or side salad for a complete meal.
Creative Variations to Try with Your Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese
While the classic bacon apple grilled cheese is already packed with flavor, there are several creative ways to personalize the recipe:
- Adding Caramelized Onions: For even more sweetness and depth of flavor, add a few caramelized onions to your sandwich. The natural sweetness of the onions complements the apples and bacon perfectly.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding a dollop of mustard or a drizzle of hot sauce to your sandwich. The tangy mustard or spicy sauce pairs wonderfully with the other flavors.
- Experiment with Different Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, try swapping it with Gruyère for a nutty flavor or Swiss for a more mild and creamy experience.
- Herbs for Freshness: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sandwich for a subtle, aromatic touch. These herbs bring a fresh dimension that balances the richness of the bacon and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This Apple and Bacon Grilled Cheese is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can enhance the overall dining experience:
- Side Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette works well to cut through the richness of the sandwich. Try a simple mixed greens salad or a more substantial quinoa-lentil-kale salad.
- Soup: Pair the sandwich with a warm, hearty soup for the ultimate comfort meal. Butternut squash and carrot soup provide a velvety contrast to the crispy sandwich or opt for a classic tomato soup to complete the pairing.
People Also Ask
What did Gordon Ramsay put in his grilled cheese?
Gordon Ramsay often recommends using thick-cut bread, butter, and high-quality cheese like Gruyère or cheddar. He also suggests adding a dash of mustard or using a combination of cheeses for a richer flavor.
Is grilled cheese with bacon healthy?
While grilled cheese with bacon isn’t considered a healthy food, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Opting for whole-grain bread and using less bacon can make the sandwich a bit lighter.
What cheese goes best with bacon?
Cheddar is a classic choice for pairing with bacon, thanks to its sharp flavor that complements the salty richness of the bacon. Other great options include Gruyère, Swiss, and Monterey Jack.
What is the secret to a good grilled cheese sandwich?
The key to a great grilled cheese is using quality ingredients, ensuring the bread is evenly buttered, and cooking it on medium-low heat to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
Is mayo or butter better for grilled cheese?
Both mayo and butter can be used for grilled cheese, but butter is the traditional choice for its flavor. Mayo, however, creates a crispier crust and can be a great option for those looking to try something different.
Conclusion
The Apple Bacon Grilled Cheese is a must-try for anyone who loves a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe brings together the best of fall ingredients—crispy bacon, juicy apples, and sharp cheddar—on golden, buttery sourdough bread. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or paired with your favorite soup, this sandwich is sure to satisfy. Try this recipe today and experience the magic of a bacon apple grilled cheese that’s both comforting and exciting.
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