Grilled Cheese
This recipe elevates the classic grilled cheese by incorporating crispy bacon, a tangy green apple, and a hint of Dijon mustard, all nestled between country-style white bread and melted farmhouse Cheddar. Cooked on a griddle or skillet until golden and gooey, it offers a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tart flavors with satisfying crunch and creamy textures.
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet or Griddle Essential for even browning and heat distribution.
- 1 Spatula For flipping sandwiches.
- 1 Chef's knife For slicing apples and sandwiches.
- 1 Cutting Board For safe slicing of ingredients.
- 1 Panini Press (Optional, for alternative cooking method)
Ingredients
Main
- Dijon mustard
- Eight 1/2-inch thick slices country-style white bread
- 12 ounces farmhouse Cheddar sliced
- 12 slices bacon cooked to desired doneness
- 1 green apple thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-low heat. Alternatively, you can use a panini press if you have one.
- Generously spread the Dijon on 4 slices of bread. Top each slice with some of the Cheddar, 3 pieces of bacon, some apple and additional Cheddar. Place a slice of the remaining bread on top of each sandwich and spread with the butter. Place a sandwich on the skillet buttered-side down and butter the remaining side. Cook until the cheese is slightly melted and the bread is browned. Flip the sandwich and continue to cook until the cheese is thoroughly melted and the sandwich is golden brown. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.
Notes
Achieving the perfect grilled cheese hinges on heat control; medium-low heat is crucial for slowly melting the cheese while the bread toasts to a golden crisp, preventing burning. Using quality butter, like unsalted, allows you to control seasoning and provides superior flavor and browning. The Dijon mustard provides a crucial acidic counterpoint to the richness of the cheese and bacon. Ensure bacon is crispy for textural contrast, and thinly sliced apples are key to integrating their tartness without overwhelming the sandwich. Serve immediately for optimal texture.