Smoked Gouda & Apple Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Buttery sourdough with smoked Gouda and crisp apples creates a gourmet sandwich that's both comforting and elegant.

# What You Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough bread or country-style bread
02 - 4 oz smoked Gouda cheese, sliced
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Fruit

04 - 1 small crisp apple such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, cored and thinly sliced

→ Optional Additions

05 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
06 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

# How-To:

01 - Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice. Place the bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
02 - Spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of two slices if desired.
03 - Layer half of the Gouda slices on two bread slices. Arrange the apple slices evenly over the cheese, then top with the remaining Gouda. Season with black pepper if desired.
04 - Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
05 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
06 - Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
07 - Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The smoky notes of the Gouda pair beautifully with the sweet crunch of the apple.
  • Sourdough bread provides a sturdy, flavorful base that crisps up perfectly in butter.
  • It takes only 20 minutes from start to finish.
02 -
  • Cook the sandwiches over medium-low heat to ensure the cheese melts completely without burning the bread.
  • Press down lightly with a spatula while cooking to help the ingredients bond and heat through evenly.
  • Thinly slicing the apples ensures they soften slightly while keeping their signature crunch.
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