Caramelized Onion & Gruyère Grilled Cheese (Print version)

Sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyère cheese melted between crispy country bread for an upscale comfort sandwich.

# 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

# Directions:

01 - In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add sliced onions, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in thyme and balsamic vinegar, then cook 1 minute longer. Remove from heat.
02 - Lay out bread slices. Evenly distribute caramelized onions on two slices. Top each with half of the grated Gruyère cheese. Place remaining bread slices on top to close 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 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted. Press gently with spatula to ensure even toasting.
05 - Remove sandwiches from heat. Slice diagonally in half and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The combination of sweet, slow-cooked onions and nutty Gruyère creates layers of flavor that make every bite feel like a special occasion
  • This recipe proves that taking 30 minutes to caramelize onions properly is the difference between a good sandwich and an unforgettable one
02 -
  • Low and slow is the only way to achieve properly caramelized onions, and rushing this step will result in bland, crunchy onions instead of sweet, jammy ones
  • Letting the sandwiches rest for just one minute after cutting helps the cheese set slightly so it does not ooze out completely when you take that first bite
03 -
  • Make a double batch of caramelized onions and keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, as they elevate everything from burgers to pasta dishes
  • The weight of a second heavy skillet or pan pressed on top while cooking helps achieve restaurant style even melting and crunch
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