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French Onion Grilled Cheese

French Onion Grilled Cheese

This French Onion Grilled Cheese recipe combines slow caramelized yellow onions with a blend of gooey Gruyère and Swiss cheeses on thick-cut bread, creating a deeply savory and creamy sandwich. Ideal as a comforting snack or meal, it features rich flavors from buttery sautéed onions complemented by melted cheese and a golden crust, with optional additions like beef broth and fresh thyme for enhanced taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Onions and Flavorings

  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for caramelizing onions)
  • 1/4 cup beef broth (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese

  • 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
  • 1 cup grated Swiss cheese

Bread and Cooking

  • 4 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough or country white recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice yellow onions and cook slowly in 2 tablespoons butter over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to soften and caramelize the onions, cooking for 30-40 minutes until deep golden brown. Add a splash of beef broth halfway through if using, to deepen the savory flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
  2. Prepare the Cheese: While the onions caramelize, grate Gruyère and Swiss cheeses to have them ready for assembly.
  3. Assemble the Sandwich: Lay one slice of bread flat, spread the caramelized onions evenly over it, then sprinkle both cheeses generously on top. Add a few fresh thyme leaves for a subtle herbal note. Place the second slice of bread on top and press gently to seal the filling.
  4. Grill to Perfection: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Press lightly with a spatula to ensure even grilling and a gooey inside.

Notes

  • Take time to caramelize onions slowly for the richest flavor.
  • Use real butter both for caramelizing onions and grilling to get the best crust and taste.
  • Combination of Gruyère and Swiss cheeses ensures creamy, complex melt.
  • Choose thick-cut bread like sourdough or country white to hold up to moist filling without sogginess.
  • Cook on medium heat to melt cheese thoroughly without burning the bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: French Onion, Grilled Cheese, Caramelized Onions, Gruyère, Swiss Cheese, Comfort Food, Sandwich