Prepare to elevate the classic grilled cheese sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary! This isn't just any sandwich - it's a gourmet masterpiece that combines the creamy richness of Havarti cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet caramelized onions between perfectly golden, buttery bread. Whether you're looking for the ultimate comfort food or a show-stopping lunch, this recipe promises to transform your grilled cheese game forever.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices bread
- 4 slices havarti cheese
- 4 slices bacon
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 slices of bread, 4 slices of havarti cheese, 4 slices of bacon, 1 onion (sliced), 2 tablespoons of butter, and salt to taste.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the slices of bacon. Cook the bacon until it is crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet, using the bacon drippings, add the sliced onion. Cook the onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. If the onions start to stick, you can add a splash of water to deglaze the pan. Season with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
- While the onions are caramelizing, butter one side of each slice of bread with 1 tablespoon of butter total (1/2 tablespoon on each slice). This will help achieve a golden and crispy exterior.
- On the unbuttered side of two slices of bread, layer 2 slices of havarti cheese, 2 slices of bacon, and half of the caramelized onions. Top with another slice of havarti cheese and then place the other slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out.
- Repeat the layering process for the second sandwich using the remaining ingredients.
- In the same skillet used for the bacon and onions, place the assembled sandwiches over medium heat. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt.
- Carefully flip the sandwiches over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing. This will help the cheese set slightly and make it easier to cut.
- Slice the sandwiches in half and serve immediately, optionally with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or salad.
Tips
- Use room temperature butter for easier spreading and more even browning.
- Choose a heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure consistent heat and prevent burning.
- Keep the heat at medium to allow the cheese to melt slowly while achieving a crispy exterior.
- Don't rush the caramelization process - low and slow is the key to sweet, deeply flavored onions.
- Press down gently on the sandwich while cooking to help the cheese melt and create a uniform golden crust.
- Let the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking to allow the cheese to set and prevent immediate burning.
- For extra flavor, try adding a light spread of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of fresh herbs inside the sandwich.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 545kcal
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 101mg
