Smoked Gouda & Apple Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Smoky Gouda and crisp apple slices melted between buttery, golden-brown bread for an elevated 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

# How To Make It:

01 - Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice. Place the bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
02 - If using Dijon mustard, spread it on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
03 - Layer half of the Gouda slices on two bread slices. Arrange the apple slices evenly over the cheese, then top with the remaining Gouda. Season with black pepper if desired.
04 - Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered side faces outward.
05 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
06 - 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 melted.
07 - Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then slice diagonally and serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Unique Flavor Profile: The smoky notes of Gouda pair beautifully with the sweet-tart crunch of fresh apples.
  • Quick Comfort: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
  • High Quality Ingredients: Using sourdough and smoked Gouda transforms a basic sandwich into a gourmet meal.
02 -
  • Control the Heat: Medium-low heat is essential to prevent the bread from burning while waiting for the cheese to melt.
  • Spatula Pressure: Pressing lightly with a spatula helps create an even golden crust.
  • Apple Choice: Use a firm, crisp apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp so it maintains some texture after being heated.
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