Pear & Apple Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions Recipe

Introduction

This Pear & Apple Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions offers a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of crisp fruit, melted cheddar, and rich caramelized onions makes for a comforting sandwich perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium pear, thinly sliced
• 1 medium apple, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the onions are golden brown and soft. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Step 2: Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
3. Step 3: Prepare the sandwiches by layering half of the shredded cheddar on two slices of sourdough bread. Add an even layer of caramelized onions, followed by the apple slices, then the pear slices. Top with the remaining cheddar and cover with the other two slices of bread.
4. Step 4: Place one sandwich in the skillet and grill for 4–5 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip carefully with a spatula and grill the other side for another 4–5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.
5. Step 5: Repeat the grilling process with the second sandwich.
6. Step 6: Remove both sandwiches from the skillet, let them cool for a minute, then slice in half and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp or aged cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme for an herbal note.
• Swap sourdough for a crusty multigrain bread for a different texture.
• For a sweeter touch, drizzle a little honey over the fruit before assembling.

Storage

Store leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the crispness and ensure the cheese melts evenly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or mozzarella work well and offer different flavor profiles. Choose one that melts smoothly for the best results.

How do I prevent the bread from burning before the cheese melts?

Cook the sandwich over medium to medium-low heat, allowing the cheese ample time to melt while the bread toasts slowly without burning.

Pear & Apple Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 69 reviews

A deliciously unique twist on classic grilled cheese, featuring sweet and tender pear and apple slices paired with savory caramelized onions and sharp cheddar cheese, all grilled to golden perfection on sourdough bread. This comforting sandwich balances sweet and savory flavors with a rich, melty texture that’s perfect for a cozy lunch or quick dinner.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread and Butter

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Filling

• 1 medium pear, thinly sliced
• 1 medium apple, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Caramelize the onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the onions are golden brown and softened. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the caramelized onions from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare skillet for grilling: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat to get ready for grilling the sandwiches.
3. Assemble the sandwiches: On two slices of sourdough bread, layer half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly. Spread the caramelized onions over the cheese, then add an even layer of apple slices, followed by pear slices. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and cover each with the other two slices of bread.
4. Grill the first sandwich: Place one assembled sandwich in the preheated skillet. Grill on one side for 4-5 minutes until the bread is golden brown. Carefully flip using a spatula and grill the other side for another 4-5 minutes until the cheese is melted thoroughly and the bread is crisp.
5. Grill the second sandwich: Repeat the same grilling process with the second sandwich, ensuring even cooking and melting of the cheese.
6. Serve: Once both sandwiches are grilled to perfection, remove them from the skillet. Let them cool for about a minute, then slice in half and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use ripe but firm pears and apples to avoid soggy sandwiches.
• Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar to your preference; it adds a nice tang to the caramelized onions.
• Butter the bread evenly to ensure a crisp, golden exterior.
• Serve immediately for best taste as grilled cheese sandwiches can become soggy if left to sit.
• You can substitute sharp cheddar with other melting cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella if preferred.

Keywords: grilled cheese, caramelized onions, pear, apple, cheddar cheese, sourdough sandwich, sweet and savory sandwich