Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese

Picture a golden, crispy sandwich that crackles softly as you bite into it, releasing the creamy essence of Brie melded with the sweetness of apples. I often find myself pondering how this simple dish transforms regular grilled cheese into something extraordinary. It’s those contrasting flavors that make me curious about the best ways to elevate this classic. How can a few additional ingredients or side pairings elevate such a comforting meal even further?

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

You’ll absolutely adore the Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese for its perfect blend of flavors. This sandwich combines creamy brie and tart apple slices, creating a taste that’s rich and delightful. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll feel all the cozy comfort that grilled cheese sandwiches bring. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up—only about 15 minutes from start to finish!

Here’s what I love about this recipe:

• Sourdough Bread: It caramelizes beautifully, adding a slight tang.
• Caramelized Onions: They bring a touch of sweetness that’s simply dreamy.
• Nutritional Benefits: You get protein from brie and fiber from apples, so you’re fueling your body!
• Customizable: Want it sweeter? Drizzle some honey or caramel.
• Vegetarian: Perfect for lunch or dinner without meat!

What’s better than indulgent yet nutritious? So, grab your ingredients and embrace the deliciousness!

Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese

Recipe by Norma EctorCourse: SandwichesCuisine: American

Servings

1 sandwich

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

6

minutes

Calories

400-500

kcal

Indulge in the deliciously unique Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese sandwich, where creamy Brie cheese meets the tartness of fresh apple slices, all nestled between crispy, buttered sourdough bread.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of sourdough bread

• 1 ripe apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced

• 4 oz Brie cheese, thinly sliced

• 1-2 tsp butter (for spreading)

• Optional: sweet fig jam or honey, caramelized onions, or arugula

Directions

• Heat a skillet over medium heat.
• Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
• Place one slice of bread, butter side down, onto the skillet.
• Layer the Brie cheese on top of the bread, followed by apple slices.
• Optionally, add fig jam, caramelized onions, or arugula for added flavor.
• Top with the second slice of bread, butter side up.
• Grill for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then carefully flip and grill the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts thoroughly.
• Remove from heat, slice in half, and enjoy!

Notes

• For a gourmet twist, you can experiment by adding herbs or a sprinkle of salt to enhance the flavors.

Equipment

For making the perfect Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese sandwich, having the right equipment can make all the difference. Trust me, I’ve been there, using the wrong tools and ending up with a soggy mess.

Here’s what you need for grilled cheese greatness:

• Non-stick skillet: This is essential for even heat distribution and helps the cheese melt just right.
• Spatula: You’ll want a sturdy one that won’t damage your sandwich while flipping it to get that golden brown crust.
• Lid: Cover the skillet to trap heat and steam, and watch that cheese melt beautifully.
• Mandoline slicer or V-slicer: These tools let you slice your apples thinly and evenly, which is key for the best flavor balance.
• Panini press (optional): If you want an extra-crispy, perfectly pressed sandwich, this is a game-changer.

With these tools, your sandwich will come out perfectly every time, boasting even browning and gooey cheese melting.

What to Serve With This Recipe

When I whip up my Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese, I love thinking about what to serve alongside it.

A crunchy salad, like a Big Mac Salad, or a warm bowl of tomato soup really makes the meal feel special, plus they complement the sandwich perfectly.

These options provide a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that enhance the overall experience.

Let’s explore some tasty side dishes and drinks that’ll take your grilled cheese experience to the next level!

Complementary Side Dishes

A delicious grilled cheese sandwich deserves some equally tasty side dishes to elevate the meal. When I think of my Apple and Brie grilled cheese, my mind immediately wanders to the classic pairing of a warm bowl of tomato soup. There’s something magical about dipping that creamy sandwich into the bright red soup, don’t you think?

If you want something new, try a spinach arugula salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. It’s a revitalizing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.

For those who crave crunch, crispy baked Old Bay fries add a savory touch that balances out the creamy, sweet flavors perfectly.

On a cozy night, I love serving a bowl of roasted cauliflower soup. Its smoothness doesn’t overpower the grilled cheese but adds comfort.

Potato leek soup is another stunning option! It’s hearty and brings that rustic vibe I adore, making everything feel like a warm hug.

Lastly, don’t forget about a dollop of fig jam on the side, especially if you’re using Granny Smith apples. The sweetness pairs so well!

These sides will make your grilled cheese experience even more delightful. Enjoy!

Perfect Beverage Pairings

With the indulgent flavors of my Apple and Brie grilled cheese, selecting the right beverage can elevate the experience even further.

I’ve found that a crisp, invigorating white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs perfectly. The creamy brie cheese and tart apple flavors blend beautifully with the wine, making each bite burst with excitement.

If you prefer beer, a light-bodied craft beer, such as a pilsner or wheat beer, offers a balanced taste that won’t overpower your grilled cheese.

For a cozy vibe, nothing beats a warm cup of spiced apple cider. It echoes the apple notes in the sandwich, plus it warms you right up.

If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lemon is uplifting and can really cleanse your palate.

I also love a lightly brewed chai latte! Its cozy spices bring out the sweet creaminess of the brie and the tartness of the apples.

Garnish and Accompaniments

Grilled Apple and Brie cheese sandwiches frequently shine brighter when paired with the right accompaniments. Trust me, adding a warm bowl of tomato soup makes this a comfort meal to remember! You can’t go wrong with dipping that crispy grilled cheese right into the soup—it’s pure bliss.

But let’s not stop there. A light garden salad with a citrus vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the rich cheese. You’ll feel like a gourmet chef! If you’re craving a touch of sweetness, drizzle a little honey over the sandwich before serving; it really enhances the apple and brie flavors.

For crunch, I love serving homemade potato chips or lightly salted baked fries alongside my sandwiches. That crispy texture perfectly balances the gooey goodness of the cheese.

And don’t forget—the sandwich isn’t just about the cheese and apple; tossing a handful of arugula or spinach in there adds a nice peppery kick and sneaks in some extra nutrition.