Smoked Gouda & Apple Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

Smoky Gouda and crisp apples paired with buttery sourdough for an elevated grilled cheese experience.

# What You Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough bread or country-style bread
02 - 4 oz smoked Gouda cheese, sliced
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Fruit

04 - 1 small crisp apple such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, cored and thinly sliced

→ Optional Additions

05 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
06 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

# Directions:

01 - Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice. Place the bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
02 - If using, spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of two slices. Layer half of the Gouda slices on these two bread slices.
03 - Arrange the apple slices evenly over the cheese, then top with the remaining Gouda. Season with black pepper if desired.
04 - Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
05 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
06 - Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The sweet and smoky flavor combination will surprise you in the best way
  • It comes together in under 20 minutes with ingredients you probably already have
  • The contrast between warm melted cheese and crisp apple slices is pure comfort
02 -
  • Medium low heat is essential, high heat burns the bread before the cheese melts
  • Pressing gently with your spatula helps the cheese adhere to the apple slices
  • Let the sandwiches rest for a minute after cooking so the cheese sets slightly
03 -
  • Grate some of the Gouda and mix it with the sliced cheese for faster melting
  • Use a cast iron skillet for the most even heat distribution and best browning
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