Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal that brings smiles all around the table, the Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese is just what you need! This delightful sandwich blends sweet Fuji apples with smoky bacon, creating a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

There’s something truly special about grilled cheese sandwiches—they evoke nostalgia and warmth. Plus, the addition of apples and bacon takes this classic comfort food to a whole new level. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this delicious sandwich!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it ideal for those hectic days when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy the sweet and savory combination of flavors. It’s a great way to introduce kids (and adults!) to new tastes!
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with the ingredients. You can easily adjust it based on what’s in your fridge!
• Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, cheesy grilled cheese sandwich. It’s pure comfort on a plate.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra sandwiches and reheat them for an easy lunch or quick dinner option throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 1 tbsp Mayo
• 2 tsp Everything But The Bagel seasoning
• 1 tsp honey
• 3 leaves Fresh Sage, chopped

For the Sandwich

• 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

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to put your own twist on it! Here are some ideas to make it uniquely yours:

• Swap the protein: If bacon isn’t your thing or you want a vegetarian option, try using turkey bacon or even crispy fried mushrooms for added texture.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Add some greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or arugula for added nutrition and color.
• Try different bread: While sourdough is amazing, whole grain or ciabatta can bring their own unique flavors to your grilled cheese.

How to Make Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Preheat your oven to 375 °F. Lay out the bacon slices on a baking sheet and bake them for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Cooking in the oven helps render out excess fat while ensuring even cooking. Once done, increase the oven temperature to 400 °F.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, mayo, everything but the bagel seasoning, honey, and freshly chopped sage leaves. Adding these ingredients creates a flavorful spread that complements both the apple and bacon beautifully.

Step 3: Build Your Sandwich

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the Dijon mixture on two slices of sourdough bread. Layer cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top—feel free to add more if you’re feeling cheesy! Next, place 3-4 slices of crispy bacon along with 5-6 thin apple slices over the cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of thyme leaves before pressing down gently.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Place your assembled sandwich on an oven-safe skillet or frypan. Add 1 tablespoon of butter on top of each slice of bread before transferring it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until you see that deliciously melted cheese oozing out.

Step 5: Sear It Perfectly

Remove the pan from the oven and bring it over to your stove on medium-high heat. Add more butter if desired (because who doesn’t love buttery goodness?), then cook each side of your sandwich for another 2-3 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy.

And there you have it—the ultimate Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese! Enjoy every bite with your loved ones; I promise it’ll be gone before you know it!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Creating the perfect Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you nail it!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh apples and herbs enhance the flavor profile of your sandwich, making each bite brighter and more delicious.
• Customize the cheese blend: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, experimenting with different cheeses can add depth. Consider adding gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick!
• Control the heat: Cooking over medium-high heat allows for a crispy exterior while ensuring the cheese melts perfectly. Too high, and you risk burning the bread before the cheese is gooey.
• Let it rest: After baking, let your sandwich sit for a minute before slicing. This helps keep all those delicious fillings intact when you cut into it.
• Experiment with different breads: Sourdough is fantastic, but don’t shy away from trying whole grain or even rye bread for added flavor and texture.

How to Serve Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Serving your Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese beautifully can elevate even a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or sage on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the sandwich beautifully.
• Apple slices: Serve a few thin apple slices on the side for an extra crunch that ties in with the sandwich’s main ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness that pairs wonderfully with your grilled cheese while adding a satisfying crunch.
• Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup makes for a comforting pairing that enhances the overall cozy feel of your meal.
• Pickles: The tangy crunch of pickles can cut through the richness of the cheese and bacon, providing an extra layer of flavor that’s delightful.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with your homemade Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch to enjoy throughout the week, making lunch or dinner a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave for 1-2 minutes, but this may make the bread less crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with crispy tempeh or a plant-based alternative to achieve that savory flavor without using pork.

What’s the secret to the best Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese?

The key lies in the balance of flavors—sweet fuji apples and sharp cheddar combined with smoky bacon create a delightful taste experience. Don’t forget to use fresh herbs!

Can I use different types of cheese for this grilled cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique spin on your Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese.

How do I prevent my grilled cheese from getting soggy?

Make sure your apple slices are thin and pat them dry before adding them to the sandwich. Also, ensure you don’t overload it with too much filling.

Can I meal prep these sandwiches ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the sandwiches ahead of time, store them properly, and reheat as needed for a quick meal throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese as much as I do! It’s such a special combination of sweet and savory flavors that elevate a classic favorite. Whether it’s for lunch or dinner, it’s bound to delight your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out!