Cheddar Apple Grilled Cheese

Serves 2 · 10 min prep · 10 min cook

Ingredients

• 4 thick slices sourdough bread slices
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 medium crisp apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/8 teaspoon pinch of cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. 1Core the apple and cut it into very thin slices, about 1/8-inch thick, so they soften quickly without making the sandwich soggy.
2. 2Grate or thinly slice the sharp cheddar so it melts evenly. Set the cheese and apple slices aside.
3. 3Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle the mustard side lightly with fresh thyme, a tiny pinch of cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
4. 4Layer half the cheddar on two of the bread slices (mustard side up). Arrange a single overlapping layer of apple slices over the cheese, then top with the remaining cheddar.
5. 5Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, mustard side facing inward.
6. 6Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat. Add half the butter and let it melt and foam.
7. 7Place both sandwiches in the skillet. Cook slowly for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom bread is deep golden and crisp.
8. 8Add the remaining butter to the pan, flip the sandwiches carefully with a spatula, and cook the second side another 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the exterior is evenly browned.
9. 9If the bread browns too fast before the cheese melts, lower the heat and cover the skillet loosely for the last minute.
10. 10Transfer to a cutting board, let rest 1 minute so the cheese sets slightly, then slice each sandwich on the diagonal.
11. 11Serve immediately while the cheddar is still stretchy and the apple still has a gentle bite.