Smoked Gauda Grilled Cheese With Apples And Bacon Recipe – American Special
This Smoked Gouda Grilled Cheese with Apples and Bacon is a delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese, combining the smoky richness of Gouda with the savory crunch of bacon and the crisp, slightly sweet bite of fresh apples. The balance of flavors—creamy cheese, salty bacon, and tangy apples—creates a mouthwatering sandwich that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a special treat, this grilled cheese is an irresistible combination of savory and sweet that will elevate any meal.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Total Time20 min
Smoked Gauda Grilled Cheese With Apples And Bacon Ingredients :
- 2 slices hearty bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or your favorite bread)
- 2 tbsp butter (softened, for spreading)
- 2 oz smoked Gouda cheese, sliced
- 2-3 slices cooked bacon (preferably thick-cut)
- 1/2 apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a little tang)
Prepare the fillings:
Cook the bacon until crispy, either in a skillet or the oven. Once cooked, drain on paper towels to remove excess fat.
Slice the apple into thin rounds or matchsticks (you can leave the skin on for extra texture and color).
Slice the smoked Gouda cheese into thin slices.
Assemble the sandwich:
Lightly spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer the smoked Gouda, followed by the crispy bacon, apple slices, and a drizzle of honey or Dijon mustard if you’re using either. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
Grill the sandwich:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the sandwich in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure even grilling and melty cheese. Flip when the first side is golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Once the sandwich is golden brown and the cheese is melted, remove it from the skillet. Let it cool for a minute, then cut it in half. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Recipe Notes :
Cheese:Smoked Gouda is the star here, but you can experiment with other types of cheese for different flavors. Gruyère, sharp cheddar, or even brie would all work wonderfully in place of Gouda. A combination of cheeses (e.g., mozzarella and Gouda) can also create a great melt.
Bread Choices:The bread you choose will make a big difference. Sourdough adds a nice tangy contrast to the sweetness of the apples, while a thicker multigrain or whole wheat bread gives the sandwich more heartiness. You can also use a soft white sandwich bread for a more classic feel.
Grilling Tip:For an even crispier crust, you can sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on the outside of the bread before grilling. It adds extra flavor and a golden, crunchy texture.
Make It Veggie:If you’d like a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add roasted veggies like caramelized onions, spinach, or even roasted sweet potatoes for a filling, flavorful sandwich.
Serving Ideas:This sandwich pairs beautifully with a bowl of tomato soup or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a more indulgent experience, serve it alongside sweet potato fries or crispy onion rings.
