Smoked Gouda & Apple Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Smoky Gouda cheese and crisp apple slices melted between buttery, golden-brown sourdough bread for the ultimate comfort sandwich.

# What you 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 softened butter on one side of each of the 4 bread slices.
02 - Place the bread slices buttered side down on a clean surface. Spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of two slices if using.
03 - Distribute half of the Gouda slices evenly over the two mustard-spread bread slices. Arrange the thinly sliced apple over the cheese and top with the remaining Gouda. Season with black pepper if desired.
04 - Top each sandwich with a remaining bread slice, ensuring the buttered side faces outward.
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 completely melted.
06 - Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Slice diagonally and serve warm.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • The smoky cheese balances perfectly with sweet crisp apple creating that sweet salty magic everyone secretly craves
  • It comes together in under 20 minutes but tastes like something from a fancy bistro
  • The texture contrast between melted gooey cheese and fresh apple slices makes every bite interesting
02 -
  • Thin apple slices are non negotiable, thick ones won't cook through and you'll get an awkward crunchy texture that fights against the melted cheese
  • Medium low heat requires patience but prevents the all too common burnt bread frozen center tragedy
  • Letting the sandwich rest for just 60 seconds after cutting keeps the cheese from escaping immediately
03 -
  • Grate some of the Gouda and mix it with the sliced pieces for maximum melt factor
  • A sprinkle of fresh thyme between layers adds an herby note that surprises everyone
  • Mayo instead of butter on the exterior creates an even crispier golden crust
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