Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, then you’ve come to the right place! The Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. It beautifully combines the sweetness of fuji apples with the smoky crunch of bacon, all melted together with gooey cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or enjoying it at a cozy family gathering, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your home.

There’s something so comforting about a grilled cheese sandwich, especially when it’s filled with flavors that surprise your palate. The contrast of savory and sweet makes each bite an experience worth savoring. Plus, it’s easy enough for anyone to make, even if you’re not a seasoned chef!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you need a delicious meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors—it’s always a hit at the dinner table!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the bacon and sauce earlier in the day, allowing you to quickly assemble sandwiches when hunger strikes.
• Deliciously Unique: With the addition of apples and sage, this isn’t just any grilled cheese—it’s an exciting flavor adventure!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this mouthwatering Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll gather from your pantry:

For the Sandwich

• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 1 tbsp Mayo
• 2 tsp Everything But The Bagel seasoning
• 1 tsp honey
• 3 leaves Fresh Sage, chopped
• 6-8 slices Bacon
• 1 Fuji Apple, sliced thinly
• 1/2 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
• 3-4 sprigs Fresh Thyme
• 4 tbsps Salted Butter

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some tasty variation ideas:

• Change up the cheese: Swap out sharp cheddar for gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Add some greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or arugula for added nutrition and freshness.
• Switch the bread: Try using whole grain or rye bread for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon entirely and replace it with roasted vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.

How to Make Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lay out your bacon on a baking sheet and cook for about 15-20 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy. This step is crucial because crispy bacon adds that wonderful crunch we all love in our sandwiches. Once done, crank up the oven temperature to 400°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine dijon mustard, mayo, everything but the bagel seasoning, honey, and freshly chopped sage leaves. Stir well until everything is mixed smoothly. This sauce will add a layer of flavor that complements both the apple’s sweetness and bacon’s smokiness perfectly.

Step 3: Assemble Your Sandwich

Spread about 1 tablespoon of your dijon mixture on two slices of sourdough bread. Next, sprinkle as much cheddar and mozzarella cheese as you desire on top. Layer on 3-4 slices of crispy bacon followed by 5-6 thin apple slices. Add a few thyme leaves before closing up your sandwich tightly.

Step 4: Bake Until Melty

Place your assembled sandwiches onto an oven-safe skillet or frypan. Dot each sandwich with another tablespoon of butter on top before placing another tablespoon in your pan. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes until you see that delicious cheese melt.

Step 5: Finish on Stovetop

After baking, carefully remove your pan from the oven (it will be hot!). Move it over to medium-high heat on your stovetop. Add additional butter if desired and cook each side of the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This step gives you that perfect crispy crust while keeping everything ooey-gooey inside.

And there you have it! A delightful Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese that’s ready to be devoured. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Creating the perfect Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese can be a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can elevate your sandwich to new heights.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh apples, crispy bacon, and good-quality cheese make all the difference in flavor. The fresher your components, the more vibrant and delicious your sandwich will taste!
• Don’t rush the bacon: Baking the bacon ensures it cooks evenly and crisps up nicely without burning. This step allows for a perfect texture that complements the melty cheese.
• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, mixing in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack can add an exciting flavor twist to your grilled cheese.
• Let it rest before slicing: After your grilled cheese is done cooking, let it sit for a minute before cutting. This allows the melted cheese to settle slightly, making for cleaner slices and happier mouths!
• Consider adding more herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or dill can enhance the overall flavor profile of your sandwich. A little extra freshness goes a long way!

How to Serve Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Presentation can elevate any meal, so here are some fun ideas on how to serve this delicious sandwich that will impress family and friends alike!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh thyme or sage on top of your grilled cheese adds a pop of color and aroma.
• Drizzle of honey: A light drizzle of honey over the top brings out the sweetness of the apples and balances the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet touch that complements the apple flavor while adding a crunchy texture.
• Tomato Soup: A classic pairing! The acidity of tomato soup cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon, creating a comforting combination.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness to your meal while balancing out the savory elements in your sandwich.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or quick lunches. You can easily prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sandwich to cool completely.
• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the sandwiches but do not cook them.
• Wrap each uncooked sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating

• For refrigerated sandwiches, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• For frozen sandwiches, allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or cook directly from frozen at low heat until warmed throughout (approximately 10-15 minutes).

FAQs

If you have some questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are a few common ones:

Can I use other types of cheese for the Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, you can also experiment with gouda, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick!

What can I substitute for bacon in the Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese?

For a vegetarian option, consider using crispy tempeh or smoked mushroom slices. Both options add great flavor while keeping it bacon-free!

How do I make sure my Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese doesn’t get soggy?

To prevent sogginess, ensure that your apples are thinly sliced but not overly wet. Also, using dry bread and cooking the sandwich over medium heat helps maintain crispiness.

Can I prepare the Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all your ingredients ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to assemble and cook your sandwiches.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields two delicious servings of Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a hearty meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese! The combination of sweet apples, smoky flavors, and gooey cheese makes it truly special. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings. Happy cooking!