Description
A sweet and savory twist on the classic grilled cheese featuring crisp pear, tart apple, rich caramelized onions, and melted cheddar and Gruyère on golden sourdough bread.
Ingredients
8 slices sourdough bread (about 1/2 inch thick)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 firm pear, thinly sliced
1 crisp apple, thinly sliced
6 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 1/2 cups)
4 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and salt. Cook for 25–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden. Stir in black pepper.
Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
On the unbuttered side of four slices, layer cheddar and Gruyère, caramelized onions, pear slices, apple slices, thyme, and remaining cheese.
Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Rest for 2–3 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use firm pear and apple varieties for best texture.
Caramelized onions can be made up to 4 days in advance.
Cook over moderate heat to prevent burning before cheese melts.
Let sandwiches rest briefly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes