French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
The French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a delicious twist on a classic. It combines the savory flavors of caramelized onions with melty cheese between crispy bread. This sandwich is comforting, easy to make, and perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it brings together two beloved dishes: French onion soup and the classic grilled cheese sandwich. It is hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor. Plus, making this sandwich is simple and requires ingredients you might already have in your kitchen!
How to Make French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Making a French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich is fun and easy. You will start by caramelizing the onions to develop their sweet flavor. Then, you will layer delicious cheeses on top of hearty sourdough bread and grill until golden brown.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 3 medium yellow onions (peeled, halved, and thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (chopped)
- 1/4 cup beef broth (or dry sherry, or water)
- 4 slices hearty sourdough bread
- 6 oz Gruyère cheese (shredded)
- 4 oz sharp white cheddar cheese (shredded)
Directions:
To Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook for about 25-30 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are soft and golden brown.
- Add thyme and beef broth (or sherry/water). Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the liquid evaporates. Set aside.
To Prepare the Sandwiches:
- Spread the remaining butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
- On the unbuttered side, layer some Gruyère cheese, followed by the caramelized onions, and then the white cheddar cheese.
- Top with another slice of bread, buttered side out.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill the sandwiches for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden and the cheese is melted.
How to Serve French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Serve your French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich warm. You can pair it with a bowl of soup or a simple salad for a complete meal. Cut the sandwich in half for easy eating!
How to Store French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich
If you have leftovers, let the sandwich cool down, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips to Make French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- For extra flavor, let the onions caramelize longer for a richer taste.
- Use high-quality cheeses for the best melting and taste.
- Experiment with different types of bread like rye or ciabatta for a unique twist.
Variation
You can add cooked mushrooms or bacon to the sandwich for added texture and flavor. A sprinkle of garlic can also enhance the overall taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina, but Gruyère and cheddar give the best flavor.
2. How do I know when the onions are done?
The onions should be golden brown and caramelized, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes of cooking.
3. Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just assemble and grill the sandwiches when you’re ready to eat!
Enjoy making your French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich! It’s a delightful treat everyone will love.
