Smoked Gouda & Apple Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Gourmet grilled cheese with smoked Gouda, crisp apple slices, and buttery sourdough. A comforting sandwich ready in 20 minutes.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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

# How-To Steps:

01 - Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice. Place the bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
02 - If using Dijon mustard, spread it on the unbuttered side of two bread slices. Layer half of the Gouda slices on two bread slices.
03 - Arrange the apple slices evenly over the cheese, then top with the remaining Gouda. Season with black pepper if desired.
04 - Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
05 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
06 - 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 melted.
07 - Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The way smoked Gouda melts into gooey perfection while apples stay slightly crisp creates the most incredible texture contrast
  • It takes an ordinary lunch and transforms it into something that feels restaurant special but comes together in under 20 minutes
02 -
  • Medium low heat is non negotiable. High heat will burn the bread before the cheese has time to melt into gooey perfection.
  • Pat your apple slices dry with a paper towel before layering to prevent soggy bread.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet for the most even heat distribution and best crust.
  • Place a lightweight pan on top of the sandwich while cooking for even better cheese to bread contact.
Go Back