Havarti & Caramelized Leek Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

Sweet caramelized leeks and creamy Havarti cheese melted between golden, buttery artisan bread slices.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
04 - Pinch of salt
05 - Pinch of black pepper

→ Cheese

06 - 4 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced

→ Bread & Spreads

07 - 4 slices artisan or sourdough bread
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until leeks are soft and caramelized, approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Set aside.
02 - Lay out the bread slices and spread one side of each slice with softened butter.
03 - Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Evenly distribute the caramelized leeks on top. Layer with Havarti cheese slices. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
04 - Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for even grilling.
05 - Slice sandwiches in half and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The sweet buttery leeks balance perfectly with Havartis mild creaminess
  • It feels fancy enough for company but comes together in under 40 minutes
02 -
  • Low and slow is the secret to properly caramelized leeks without burning them
  • Medium low heat prevents the bread from burning before the cheese melts
03 -
  • Clean your leeks thoroughly after slicing, as sand often hides between the layers
  • Let the sandwiches rest for about a minute before slicing so the cheese sets slightly
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