Caramelized Onion & Gruyère Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

Sweet caramelized onions meet nutty Gruyère cheese in this gourmet grilled sandwich with crispy country bread.

# What You'll Need:

→ Caramelized Onions

01 - 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
06 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
07 - 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

→ Sandwiches

08 - 4 slices rustic country bread
09 - 4 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated
10 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

# Cooking Steps:

01 - In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add sliced onions with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25 to 30 minutes until deeply golden. Stir in thyme and balsamic vinegar, cooking 1 minute longer. Remove from heat.
02 - Lay out bread slices. Evenly distribute caramelized onions on two slices. Top each with half the grated Gruyère. Place remaining bread slices on top to close the sandwiches.
03 - Spread softened butter evenly on the outside of each sandwich.
04 - Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches in pan and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts. Press gently with a spatula for even toasting.
05 - Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The rich, jammy sweetness of caramelized onions pairs perfectly with the savory notes of Gruyère.
  • Thick, rustic bread provides a satisfyingly crispy and golden exterior.
  • It is a simple yet impressive vegetarian dish that tastes like it came from a French bistro.
02 -
  • Don't rush the onions; low and slow heat is the secret to achieving that deep, jammy consistency.
  • Grate the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded for a smoother, superior melt.
  • Press the sandwich gently with a spatula while it's in the pan to ensure the heat reaches the center and melts the cheese thoroughly.
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