This French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese, featuring sweet caramelized onions, melted Swiss and provolone cheese, and perfectly toasted bread. The richness of the caramelized onions combined with the gooey cheese makes this sandwich an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 8 slices of bread
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 4 slices of provolone cheese
- Butter, for grilling
Directions:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized, about 20-30 minutes.
- Add the beef broth to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the sandwiches by layering Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, provolone cheese, and another slice of bread. Butter the outsides of the bread slices.
- Grill the sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations:
- Add Meat: Include thin slices of roast beef or turkey for a heartier sandwich.
- Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheese combinations such as cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella.
- Spicy Kick: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter for a vegan version of this sandwich.
- Herb Variations: Swap the thyme for fresh rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat and cook until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted again. Alternatively, you can use a toaster oven.
10 FAQs:
- How long does it take to caramelize the onions?
- Caramelizing onions takes about 20-30 minutes. Stir them occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even browning.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer. Cheddar, mozzarella, or fontina are all great options.
- Can I make this sandwich without beef broth?
- Yes, you can omit the beef broth or replace it with vegetable broth for a different flavor.
- Can I make the caramelized onions in advance?
- Yes, the caramelized onions can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Can I use store-bought caramelized onions?
- Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought caramelized onions are a great shortcut.
- What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
- A hearty bread like sourdough, whole wheat, or a French baguette works well for grilling.
- How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
- Make sure to drain the caramelized onions of excess liquid before adding them to the sandwich and butter both sides of the bread to help create a crispy crust.
- Can I make these sandwiches in the oven?
- Yes, you can bake the sandwiches in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Can I add more seasoning to the onions?
- Absolutely! You can add a dash of balsamic vinegar, sugar, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the onions to customize the flavor.
- Can I freeze these sandwiches?
- It’s not recommended to freeze grilled cheese sandwiches as the bread may become soggy after reheating. However, you can freeze the caramelized onions and assemble the sandwiches fresh when needed.
Conclusion:
The French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a rich and flavorful upgrade to the classic grilled cheese. The sweet caramelized onions and melty cheeses combine perfectly with golden, crispy bread for a sandwich that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether enjoyed for lunch or dinner, this sandwich is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.