Grilled Cheese Caramelized Onions (Printable)

Crisp bread with melted cheese and caramelized onions delivers cozy, savory comfort in every bite.

# Components:

→ For the Caramelized Onions

01 - 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
02 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
03 - 1 teaspoon olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)

→ For the Sandwiches

07 - 4 slices sourdough or country-style bread
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
09 - 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
10 - 2 slices Swiss or Gruyère cheese

# Directions:

01 - In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Add the sliced onion, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply golden and caramelized, about 20–25 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 - Lay out the bread slices. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
03 - Top each of the two bread slices with a slice of cheddar, a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, a slice of Swiss or Gruyère, and then finish with the remaining cheddar slices. Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread, buttered side up.
04 - Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the sandwiches and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and crisp, and cheese is melted.
05 - Remove from pan, let rest for 1 minute, then slice in half and serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses basic ingredients almost always in the kitchen
  • Elevates a simple grilled cheese with restaurant-style caramelized onions
  • Ready in about 40 minutes start to finish
  • Easy enough for beginners with results that taste special
02 -
  • Grilled cheese can be customized with any melting cheese or bread you love
  • Caramelized onions freeze well in small portions for quick sandwich assembly
  • This recipe is a vegetarian comfort meal packed with protein and flavor
03 -
  • Generously salt your onions right at the start to help them break down faster and caramelize deeper
  • Use freshly sliced cheese for the very best melting
  • Resist the urge to rush the onions slow and steady gives luxurious sweetness

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