Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. This recipe combines the sweetness of fuji apples with savory flavors from chicken bacon and rich cheeses, making it perfect for a cozy lunch or a quick weeknight dinner. With its unique flavor profile and easy preparation, this sandwich will surely become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe can be made in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet apples, creamy cheeses, and savory chicken bacon creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even brunch; it suits any occasion and satisfies various appetites.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry items that you may already have at home, reducing extra shopping trips.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this flavorful twist on a classic sandwich.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese effortlessly, gather your essential tools. These will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick frying pan: Ensures that your sandwich cooks evenly without sticking, making flipping easier.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for cooking the chicken bacon until crispy without much hassle.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients like sauces or spreads efficiently.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping your sandwich without damaging it while cooking.

Ingredients

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 Chicken 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

How to Make Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. While it’s heating up, place the chicken bacon on a baking sheet and cook for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F once done.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the dijon mustard, mayo, everything but the bagel seasoning, honey, and freshly chopped sage leaves. Add a pinch of salt to taste and stir well.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the dijon mixture on two slices of sourdough bread. Layer with cheddar and mozzarella cheese (use as much as you like). Top with 3-4 slices of cooked chicken bacon and 5-6 slices of fuji apple. Sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves over it all. Press the sandwich together gently.

Step 4: Bake in the Oven

Place your assembled sandwich in an oven-safe skillet or frypan. Add 1 tablespoon of butter on top of the bread and another tablespoon in the pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes until you see that the cheese is melting beautifully.

Step 5: Finish on Stovetop

Remove your skillet from the oven carefully. Bring it to medium-high heat on your stovetop. Add more butter if desired and cook both sides for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese sandwich!

How to Serve Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it with complementary sides enhances its flavors and makes for a satisfying meal.

Pair with a Side Salad

• A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to the rich sandwich.

Enjoy with Tomato Soup

• A classic pairing, warm tomato soup provides a comforting contrast to the sandwich’s sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Add Sweet Potato Fries

• Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet and savory balance that perfectly complements the flavors of apple and cheese.

Serve with Pickles

• Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the cheese and bacon, providing a zesty contrast that brightens up each bite.

Accompany with Fresh Fruit

• Slices of fresh fruit like berries or grapes add a juicy sweetness that pairs well with the savory elements of the sandwich.

Offer a Glass of Iced Tea

• A refreshing glass of iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, can cleanse your palate and elevate your dining experience.

How to Perfect Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Creating the perfect Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Bread
  Choosing high-quality sourdough bread enhances the flavor and texture of your grilled cheese, making it more enjoyable.
• Opt for Fresh Ingredients
  Using fresh apples, herbs, and cheeses will elevate your dish. Fresh ingredients bring out vibrant flavors that make each bite memorable.
• Balance Flavors
  Make sure to balance sweet and savory elements. The sweetness from apples should complement the saltiness of cheese without overpowering it.
• Control Cooking Temperature
  Cooking on medium heat ensures that the bread crisps up nicely while allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning.
• Experiment with Cheese Blends
  While cheddar is fantastic, mixing different cheeses can add depth. Consider adding Gruyère or Fontina for an exciting twist.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Crispy Kale Chips
   Lightly seasoned kale chips provide a crunchy texture that’s healthy and delicious alongside your sandwich.
2. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sandwich’s creaminess.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors that complement both the apple’s sweetness and the cheese’s richness.
4. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for an indulgent side that pairs well with grilled cheese.
5. Cauliflower Soup
   A smooth cauliflower soup provides a creamy option that won’t compete with the flavors of your sandwich while adding warmth to your meal.
6. Fruit Salad
   A vibrant fruit salad can brighten up your plate, offering freshness that balances out the hearty sandwich components.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese experience.

• Using the wrong type of bread: Not all breads are equal for grilled cheese. Choose sourdough or a hearty bread that can hold up to the filling.
• Overloading on fillings: While it’s tempting to add more ingredients, too much can make the sandwich soggy. Stick to the recipe for balance.
• Neglecting to preheat the oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven for optimal melting.
• Not monitoring cooking time: Leaving the sandwich in too long can burn it. Keep an eye on it, especially when baking and pan-frying.
• Forgetting about seasoning: Proper seasoning enhances flavor. Don’t skip adding salt or herbs to your filling mixture.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold cheese and vegetables don’t melt or cook evenly. Allow them to come to room temperature before assembling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

• Wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 1 month for optimal freshness.

Reheating Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat for 30-second intervals until warm, but this may make the bread soft.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, flipping once to ensure even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese special?

The combination of sweet apples with savory bacon and rich cheeses creates a perfect balance of flavors.

Can I customize my Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out cheeses or add different fruits like pears for a unique twist.

How do I enhance the flavor of my grilled cheese?

Adding fresh herbs like thyme or sage really boosts the overall taste of your sandwich.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute bacon with plant-based bacon alternatives or skip it entirely for a delicious veggie option.

Final Thoughts

Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese is not only delicious but versatile as well. You can experiment with various cheeses, fruits, or even spreads to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors!