Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
This Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a unique twist on the classic grilled cheese that brings together the tanginess of granny smith apples, the sharpness of cheddar, and the creaminess of American cheese. The added sweetness from the shallots and a hint of garlic elevate this sandwich to something truly special. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a lunchtime treat or a snack when you’re craving something comforting but with a refreshing zing. Ensure to use a tart apple like a granny smith for the best flavor balance.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Information (Per Serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith apple | 1 | |
| Shallot | 1 | |
| Garlic clove | 1 | |
| Butter | 1/2 tbsp (for frying), 1 tbsp (for bread) | 20.3g Fat, 12.1g Saturated Fat |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 slice | |
| American cheese | 1 slice | |
| Bread (your choice) | 2 slices | |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich):
- Calories: 432.7 kcal
- Fat Content: 20.3g
- Saturated Fat: 12.1g
- Cholesterol: 53.8mg
- Sodium: 600.1mg
- Carbohydrate: 51g
- Fiber: 5.5g
- Sugar: 19.4g
- Protein: 14.5g
Instructions
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Prepare the Apple and Shallot
Begin by coring your granny smith apple. Slice one half into very thin slices; you’ll need enough to cover one slice of bread in a single, non-overlapping layer. Next, thinly slice about 4 or 5 slices of shallot and garlic. Reserve the remaining shallot and garlic for another use, as you’ll only need a few slices to impart their delicate flavors. -
-
Fry the Apple, Shallot, and Garlic
Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the apple slices, shallot slices, and garlic slices. Cook for about 2 minutes, until the apple begins to soften slightly and the shallot turns translucent. Transfer the mixture to a plate and set it aside. -
Assemble the Sandwich
Take one slice of bread and butter one side generously. Lightly sprinkle salt over the buttered side for added flavor. Place the buttered side down in the skillet. Lay one slice of cheddar cheese on top of the bread. Arrange the cooked apple slices in a single layer over the cheese, then distribute the shallot and garlic slices evenly over the apples. Top this with a slice of American cheese. -
Prepare the Second Slice of Bread
Butter one side of the second slice of bread and sprinkle it with a little salt. Place the bread, buttered side up, on top of the sandwich. -
Grill the Sandwich
Fry the sandwich over medium heat, pressing down gently with a spatula to flatten it slightly and ensure an even cook. Allow the sandwich to cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the sandwich carefully and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes, until both sides are browned and the cheese is melted. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the sandwich is golden and the cheese has melted, remove it from the skillet. Let it rest for a minute, then slice it in half and serve warm.
Tips for Success:
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Use a tart apple like granny smith: This brings the right amount of acidity to balance out the richness of the cheeses. Sweet apples may not provide the same contrast and could result in an overly sweet sandwich.
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Press the sandwich down gently while cooking to help all the layers meld together, ensuring that the cheese melts evenly and the apples warm up nicely.
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For an extra crispy crust, consider spreading mayonnaise on the outer sides of the bread instead of butter. Mayonnaise adds a rich, golden crust that pairs beautifully with the tangy apple and cheese filling.
This grilled cheese sandwich, with its crunchy golden exterior and warm, gooey filling, is a delightful way to jazz up a simple meal. The combination of tart apples, creamy cheese, and subtle garlic flavor will leave you craving more with every bite. Perfect for busy days when you need something fast but don’t want to compromise on flavor!
