Smoked Gouda & Apple Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

Gourmet grilled cheese with smoked Gouda, crisp apples, and buttery sourdough bread. A sophisticated twist on a classic comfort sandwich.

# What You'll Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough bread or country-style bread
02 - 4 ounces 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 and place buttered side down on a clean surface.
02 - Spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of two bread slices if using.
03 - Layer half of the Gouda slices on the two prepared bread slices.
04 - Arrange apple slices evenly over the cheese layer, then top with remaining Gouda and season with black pepper if desired.
05 - Close the sandwiches with remaining bread slices, ensuring buttered side faces outward.
06 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat until ready for cooking.
07 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
08 - Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The smokiness from the Gouda paired with sweet crisp apple creates this incredible sweet and savory balance that feels sophisticated but takes minutes to make
  • It transforms a childhood favorite into something restaurant worthy without any fancy techniques or hard to find ingredients
02 -
  • Medium low heat is non negotiable here because the cheese needs time to melt before the bread burns, and patience pays off with perfectly gooey results
  • Thin apple slices are essential since thick pieces will not soften enough during cooking and you will end up with an awkward texture contrast
03 -
  • Mayo instead of butter on the exterior might sound strange, but it creates an even crispier crust and does not burn as easily
  • Use a box grater to shred some of the cheese instead of slicing everything, which helps it melt faster and bind the sandwich together better
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