Caramelized Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
If you are craving a sandwich that brings together the sweet, savory, and melty all in one delightful bite, the Caramelized Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich is calling your name. This comforting masterpiece pairs golden caramelized onions with crisp honeycrisp apple slices, layered with creamy brie and sharp cheddar cheeses, all hugged by perfectly toasted sourdough. It’s the kind of sandwich that feels like a warm hug on a plate and one that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this sandwich. Each element is simple yet plays an essential role in making the final bite absolutely irresistible.
- Sourdough bread: Its sturdy, tangy slices provide the perfect crispy canvas for this rich filling.
- Fresh sage: Bright and aromatic, it’s folded into the butter, adding a savory herbal note.
- Unsalted butter: Used both for caramelizing onions and grilling, it ensures everything turns beautifully golden.
- Honeycrisp apple: Thinly sliced for a crisp, sweet contrast that cuts through the richness.
- Yellow onions: Slowly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and depth.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it complements the apples and onions perfectly.
- Brie cheese: Creamy and mild, adds a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Kosher salt: Seasoning that enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Olive oil: Helps to crisp the bread without burning the butter.
How to Make Caramelized Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thickly sliced yellow onions and give them a gentle stir every few minutes. After about 10 minutes, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon kosher salt to draw out the moisture and deepen the flavor. Keep cooking for another 30 to 40 minutes until the onions are an irresistible golden brown, stirring intermittently to prevent sticking. If the skillet dries out, splash in a tablespoon of water to keep things moist and ensure your onions caramelize perfectly without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Sage Butter
While the onions are caramelizing, mix the chopped fresh sage with 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. This flavorful butter will be the secret weapon that infuses the sandwich with a fragrant herbal warmth, making every bite memorable.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Grab one slice of sourdough and leave it unbuttered on this side. Layer slices of creamy brie cheese first, then a generous handful of grated cheddar cheese, followed by thinly sliced honeycrisp apples arranged in a slightly overlapping pattern. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the caramelized onions over the apples, then top with a little more grated cheddar for extra cheesy goodness. Finish with the second slice of bread and spread 1 tablespoon of the sage butter over its outside.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Carefully place your sandwich into the pan, buttered side down. Spread the remaining sage butter evenly on the uncovered top surface of the sandwich. Grill each side for about 6 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside and deliciously melty inside. Watch closely to avoid burning and enjoy that satisfying sizzle and aroma filling your kitchen.
How to Serve Caramelized Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Garnishes
To elevate your Caramelized Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich, consider sprinkling a pinch of freshly chopped sage or a small drizzle of honey over the top just before serving. These touches complement the sandwich’s natural sweetness and add a little extra charm to your presentation.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette, or a bowl of warm tomato soup. Both bring a fresh or tangy contrast that brightens the rich, cheesy elements of the sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like going gourmet? Slice your grilled cheese into elegant triangles or finger-sized strips for easy sharing. For a fun twist, serve with a small ramekin of apple chutney or spicy mustard on the side for dipping. Inviting and appetizing, your guests will marvel at this elevated comfort food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Caramelized Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To avoid sogginess, wrap it tightly with parchment paper before storing.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but ungrilled sandwiches by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them inside a freezer bag. They will keep for up to a month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling fresh.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on a stovetop skillet over medium-low heat to restore crispness and meltiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy and cheese rubbery. A quick press in a panini maker also works beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! Honeycrisp gives a nice balance of sweet and tart with great crunch, but Granny Smith or Fuji apples can be tasty alternatives. Just choose crisp apples that hold up well when sliced thin.
What kind of cheese works best besides cheddar and brie?
While cheddar and brie offer a perfect blend of sharpness and creaminess, you could also try Gruyère for a nuttier flavor, or mozzarella for more stretchiness. Experiment to match your preference!
Is there a vegetarian option for this sandwich?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat. Just be sure to use cheeses made without animal rennet if that’s a concern for you.
How long does it take to caramelize onions?
Caramelizing onions is a slow process that takes about 40 to 50 minutes total. Patience here rewards you with deep, sweet onion flavor essential for this sandwich.
Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free bread as a substitute for sourdough. The key is to choose a sturdy loaf that crisps well when grilled to hold all the fillings.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Caramelized Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich that turns an ordinary meal into an experience filled with warm, cozy flavors and delightful textures. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or sharing with friends, this sandwich is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients come together to create pure magic in every bite.
Print
Caramelized Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously savory and sweet Caramelized Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich combining the richness of cheddar and brie cheeses with the aromatic depth of caramelized onions, fresh sage butter, and crisp apple slices. This sandwich offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, perfect for a comforting lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided (room temperature)
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Filling
- 1 honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced 1/2 inch thick
- 8 oz cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 oz brie cheese, sliced into 1/2” slivers
- 2 tsp kosher salt, divided
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat 2 tbsp of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir every few minutes to ensure even cooking. After 10 minutes, sprinkle in 1 tsp kosher salt to help draw out moisture. Continue cooking and stirring every few minutes for an additional 30-40 minutes until the onions turn a rich golden brown. If the skillet becomes too dry, add 1 tbsp of water to prevent burning.
- Prepare Sage Butter: In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh sage with 4 tbsp of unsalted butter and 1 tsp kosher salt. Mix well to evenly incorporate the herb and salt throughout the butter.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Place a slice of sourdough bread on a clean surface with the unbuttered side up. Layer slices of brie cheese first, followed by grated cheddar cheese. Add thinly sliced honeycrisp apples in a single overlapping layer. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the caramelized onions evenly over the apples, then sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top. Finish with the second slice of bread. Spread 1 tbsp of the prepared sage butter on the top slice’s outer side.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches into the skillet with the buttered side down. Evenly spread the remaining sage butter on the exposed top sides of the bread. Cook each side for approximately 6 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use honeycrisp apples for their balance of sweetness and tartness, but other crisp apples like Granny Smith or Fuji can also be used.
- Caramelizing onions takes time but is key for deep flavor; patience is essential.
- Adjust salt quantity based on your preference and the saltiness of the cheese.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic reduction when assembling.
- To make the sandwich gluten-free, substitute sourdough bread with gluten-free bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling/Caramelizing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 44g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: caramelized onion, apple, grilled cheese, sourdough, cheddar, brie, sage butter, sandwich, comfort food
