Smoked Gouda Apple Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Smoky Gouda meets crisp apple in this golden, buttery comfort classic ready in 20 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough bread or country-style bread
02 - 4 oz smoked Gouda cheese, sliced
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Fruit

04 - 1 small crisp apple, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, cored and thinly sliced

→ Optional Additions

05 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
06 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How-To:

01 - Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
02 - Place the bread slices buttered side down on a clean surface. If using mustard, spread it on the unbuttered side of two slices.
03 - Arrange half of the Gouda slices on two bread slices. Distribute apple slices evenly over the cheese, then top with remaining Gouda. Season with black pepper if desired.
04 - Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward to create the complete sandwiches.
05 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
06 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is thoroughly melted.
07 - Remove from heat and let cool briefly before slicing diagonally. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The salty smoky Gouda balances beautifully with sweet crisp apples in every bite
  • Ready in twenty minutes flat for those nights when you need serious comfort fast
02 -
  • Low and slow heat prevents burning while giving cheese time to melt completely
  • Thin apple slices are crucial or they will not soften properly in the short cooking time
03 -
  • Mayonnaise instead of butter creates an even crunchier exterior that will surprise you
  • Grate some extra Gouda into the apple layer for pockets of intense flavor throughout
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