Description
This Caramelized Onion Pear Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The richness of melted Swiss cheeses combined with the sweetness of caramelized onions and fresh pear slices, enhanced with a hint of fresh thyme, makes this sandwich a perfect gourmet comfort food. Crispy golden bread and oozing cheese create a deliciously indulgent bite that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Butter
- 2 slices sturdy white bread
- 2 tablespoons butter
Cheese and Toppings
- 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese (such as gruyere and Jarlsberg)
- 1/4 cup caramelized onions
- 1/2 pear, thinly sliced and core removed
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme
Instructions
- Assemble Cheese and Onions: Sprinkle half of the grated Swiss cheese evenly over one slice of bread, then spread the caramelized onions on top of the cheese layer.
- Add Pear and Remaining Cheese: Layer the thinly sliced pear slices over the onions, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Finish by sprinkling the fresh chopped thyme over the cheese.
- Top Bread and Butter: Cover the layered ingredients with the second slice of bread. Spread 1 tablespoon of butter evenly over the top side of this bread slice, covering the entire surface.
- Prepare Skillet and Cook First Side: Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet with the buttered side facing up, so the unbuttered side is down on the pan. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
- Grill Sandwich Until Golden: Cook the sandwich for 2-3 minutes, checking that the bottom bread is golden brown and the cheese is beginning to melt. Carefully flip the sandwich with a spatula.
- Cook Other Side: Cover again and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the second side of the bread is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet and serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- Use sturdy bread to prevent sogginess from the juicy pears and melted cheese.
- Gruyere and Jarlsberg both melt well and add nutty flavor; feel free to substitute with other Swiss cheeses.
- Caramelize onions ahead of time for convenience or use store-bought caramelized onions.
- Adjust thyme quantity to suit your flavor preference or omit if unavailable.
- Serve with a side salad or soup for a full meal.
