Grilled Cheese Caramelized Onions (Printable)

Gooey cheese and golden onions tucked between crisp, buttery bread for a deliciously comforting bite.

# Components:

→ For the Caramelized Onions

01 - 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
02 - 1 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1/2 tsp salt
05 - 1/2 tsp sugar (optional)

→ For the Grilled Cheese

06 - 4 slices sourdough or country bread
07 - 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
08 - 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or Gruyère, or a mix)
09 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with salt and optional sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and deeply golden brown, approximately 20 to 25 minutes. If the onions begin to burn, reduce the heat. Once caramelized, remove from heat and set aside.
02 - Arrange the bread slices on a clean surface. Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice. Place two slices, buttered-side down, onto the work surface. Layer each of these slices with 2 slices of cheese and half of the caramelized onions. Season with freshly ground black pepper. Top with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered side faces upwards.
03 - Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwiches into the heated skillet. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure even toasting. Remove from the skillet, allow to rest for 1 to 2 minutes, then slice and serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses ingredients you probably have on hand so you do not need a special grocery trip
  • Takes under forty minutes start to finish so it fits into any schedule
  • The caramelized onions add luxurious sweetness and a hint of savory depth
  • Flexible with bread and cheese options so you can adapt to your favorites
02 -
  • High in comfort and flavor makes lunch or dinner special
  • Customizable with any cheese or bread you enjoy
  • Caramelized onions keep well in the fridge for meal prep
03 -
  • Let your onions go low and slow the longer they caramelize the richer their sweetness and complexity
  • Always spread butter all the way to the edge of the bread for a totally crisp browned surface
  • Layer the cheese both above and below the onions to keep them in place and achieve extra luscious melt
  • If you are feeling creative stir in a pinch of smoked paprika with the onions for a little smoky kick I learned that from a late night craving and it has been a repeat move ever since.

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