Gourmet grilled cheese featuring smoked Gouda, crisp apples, and buttery sourdough bread. A comforting twist on a classic favorite.
# What You'll Need:
→ Bread & Dairy
01 - 4 slices sourdough bread or country-style bread
02 - 4 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, sliced
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
→ Fruit
04 - 1 small crisp apple such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, cored and thinly sliced
→ Optional Additions
05 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
06 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste
# Step-by-Step Directions:
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 work surface.
03 - If using Dijon mustard, spread it on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
04 - Distribute half of the sliced smoked Gouda evenly over the two prepared bread slices.
05 - Arrange the thinly sliced apple over the cheese layer, then top with the remaining Gouda slices. Season with freshly ground black pepper if desired.
06 - Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered side faces outward.
07 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat until ready for cooking.
08 - Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
09 - Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, then slice diagonally and serve warm.
