Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese Recipe

If you love the comforting, melty goodness of a grilled cheese but crave a burst of unexpected flavor, the Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese is about to become your new obsession. This sandwich combines savory, smoky bacon with sweet and crisp apple slices, layered with sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella cheeses that melt into a gooey delight. The tangy dijon and mayo spread, spiced up with everything but the bagel seasoning and fresh herbs, adds a perfect zing to every bite. Whether you’re craving a decadent lunch or a fancy snack, this Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese balances sweet, salty, and savory in the most delicious way possible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese recipe plays a vital role in creating its irresistible flavor profile and texture. From crispy bacon to fresh apples and sharp cheese, simplicity meets sophistication here.

• Dijon Mustard: Adds a mellow heat and depth, balancing the creamy elements.
• Mayo: Keeps the spread creamy and rich with a subtle tang.
• Everything But The Bagel seasoning: Brings savory crunch and a mix of flavors that elevate the sandwich.
• Honey: Delivers a touch of natural sweetness to complement the apples.
• Fresh Sage: Offers an earthy, herbaceous note that ties all the flavors together.
• Bacon: Crisp and smoky, the star savory ingredient that adds texture and boldness.
• Fuji Apple: Thinly sliced for a sweet and crisp layer that brightens the sandwich.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides that sharp, tangy, melted goodness essential to any great grilled cheese.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds creamy richness.
• Fresh Thyme: Sprinkled on top for subtle aromatic bursts.
• Salted Butter: Used for cooking, it adds golden crispness and a luscious finish.

How to Make Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Start by preheating your oven to 375 ° F. Lay out your bacon slices on a baking sheet and cook them for 15-20 minutes until they reach the perfect golden brown and crispiness. Using the oven here ensures even cooking and a delicious crunch without the mess. Once done, increase your oven’s temperature to 400 °F to prepare for the grilled cheese baking step.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Spread

While the bacon crisps, mix the dijon mustard, mayo, everything but the bagel seasoning, honey, and freshly chopped sage in a small bowl. This spread is where creaminess meets a burst of savory and sweet flavor, giving your sandwich an exciting personality. A pinch of salt helps bring all these tastes into harmonious balance.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Take two slices of your favorite sourdough bread and spread about a tablespoon of the delicious dijon mixture on each. Layer on both the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses generously—you want plenty of melty goodness. Top the cheese with 3-4 slices of the crisp bacon, then add 5-6 thin apple slices for a crisp, sweet counterpoint. Sprinkle 1-2 fresh thyme leaves on top to add a subtle herbal note. Press the sandwich together, place it in an oven-safe skillet or frypan, and add a tablespoon of butter on top of the bread and one in the pan.

Step 4: Bake to Perfect Melty

Pop the skillet into the preheated 400 °F oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. This step lets the cheese melt beautifully and the bread start to crisp up from the butter on top, melding all those flavors.

Step 5: Finish on the Stovetop for Golden Crunch

Remove the pan from the oven and move it to the stove over medium-high heat. Add a little more butter and cook the sandwich for 2-3 minutes on each side until both sides develop a golden, crunchy crust. This finishing touch completes your Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese, giving it that irresistible crisp exterior that contrasts perfectly with the gooey interior.

How to Serve Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Garnishes

To enhance the flavors and presentation, consider garnishing your sandwich with a few fresh thyme sprigs or a light drizzle of honey on the side. A dash of cracked black pepper adds a welcome hint of spice and freshness.

Side Dishes

This Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a bright vinaigrette, or a warm bowl of tomato soup for that classic comfort food combo. Crispy sweet potato fries or tangy coleslaw are also fantastic for a heartier meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting your sandwiches into fun, bite-sized triangles for a casual get-together or serve with a colorful array of picked vegetables for contrast. Wrapping them in parchment paper tied with twine makes a charming presentation perfect for picnics or packed lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days to keep the bread from becoming soggy and to maintain optimal flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the sandwich by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. Keep it frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and taste.

Reheating

To regain that crispy crust and melty center, reheat your Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter. Avoid the microwave as it can make the bread rubbery. Heat slowly until warmed through and crispy on both sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Fuji apples are great for their sweetness and crispness, but tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp also work beautifully, adding a different fruit profile that complements the bacon and cheese.

Is there a vegetarian option for this grilled cheese?

Yes! You can simply omit the bacon and add caramelized onions or roasted mushrooms to maintain that rich, savory bite while keeping it meat-free. The blend of cheeses and herbs will still shine wonderfully.

What bread works best for Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese?

Sourdough is our favorite because of its sturdy texture and mild tang that pairs well with bold cheese and sweet apples. However, a rustic country loaf or whole wheat bread can also yield delicious results.

How can I make this healthier?

Consider using reduced-fat cheeses and turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative. You might also swap mayo for Greek yogurt in the spread to cut calories while keeping creaminess.

Can I make these sandwiches in a panini press?

Definitely! A panini press will quickly give you that golden crust and melted filling with less fuss, though you might miss the layered finish of baking followed by stovetop crisping. Just watch the press closely to avoid overcooking.

Final Thoughts

Making the Apple Bacon and Cheddar Grilled Cheese might quickly become your favorite comfort food ritual. It’s a brilliant blend of sweet, smoky, tangy, and melty goodness packed into one unforgettable sandwich. Treat yourself or impress friends with this layered flavor bomb that’s surprisingly easy to make. Grab your ingredients and get ready to relish something truly delicious that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Print