Here’s a sweet‑savory twist on a classic grilled cheese—gooey melted cheese meets crisp apple slices and rich caramelized onions, all sandwiched between buttery bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how the sweetness of the caramelized onions balances the tartness of the apple slices, and the melted cheese wraps it all into creamy comfort. This sandwich feels sophisticated yet simple, and I find it works great alongside a warm soup or as a satisfying snack on its own.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 tablespoons butter, divided
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1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
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1 medium apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
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4 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough or whole wheat work well)
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4–6 slices sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese
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Optional pinch salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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I melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. I add the sliced onion with a pinch of salt and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and golden, about 15–20 minutes.
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I stir in the apple slices with onions and cook another 3–5 minutes just to soften the apples slightly without losing their crispness. I set the mixture aside.
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I butter one side of each slice of bread with the remaining butter.
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I assemble the sandwich by placing cheese slices on the non-buttered side of two bread slices, then top with the caramelized onion and apple mixture, and additional cheese if I want extra melty pull. I place the remaining bread on top, butter side facing out.
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I heat the skillet over medium-low heat and grill each sandwich for about 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
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I let the sandwich rest a minute, then slice and serve immediately.
Servings And Timing
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Servings: I make two sandwiches (serves 2 generously)
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Prep time: about 10 minutes for slicing and caramelizing starting
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Cook time: around 20–25 minutes total including onion cooking and grilling
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Total time: roughly 30–35 minutes
Variations
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I sometimes swap cheddar for brie or havarti for a creamier or subtler cheese melt.
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Instead of apple, I’ve tried pear slices for a milder fruit flavor.
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I’ve used caramelized shallots or red onions for a slightly different sweetness.
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I drizzle a little honey or fig jam inside before cooking for extra sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
I eat these sandwiches fresh for the best texture. If I have leftovers, I refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 day (because of the apple slice moisture). To reheat, I warm the sandwich in a skillet over low heat until heated through and cheese is melty again. I avoid the microwave since it makes the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead Of Time?
I prefer assembling right before cooking for crisp bread. But I will prepare the caramelized onions and apples in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day, then assemble just before grilling.
What Cheese Works Best Here?
Sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor contrast, while Gruyère melts beautifully and adds a nutty richness. Havarti or brie are also great for a softer, creamier texture.
Will The Apples Stay Crunchy?
Yes—I cook the apples just enough to warm and soften slightly, but retain a crisp bite. If I want them softer, I’ll cook a bit longer.
Can I Use Red Onions Or Shallots Instead?
Absolutely—red onions caramelize nicely with a bit more sweetness, and shallots give a subtler onion flavor if you prefer.
Can I Make A Gluten‑Free Or Vegan Version?
Yes—I’ve used gluten‑free bread and vegan butter plus dairy‑free cheese to make it vegan‑friendly. Use a vegan cheese that melts well and caramelize onions the same way.
Conclusion
I absolutely enjoy making this caramelized onion apple grilled cheese sandwich—it’s a delicious harmony of sweet, savory, creamy, and crisp. The warm caramelized onions, fresh apple crunch, and gooey cheese all make each bite memorable. I hope you enjoy making it and eating it as much as I do!
PrintCaramelized Onion Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A sweet-savory grilled cheese sandwich layered with gooey melted cheddar, caramelized onions, and crisp apple slices, all tucked into golden, buttery toasted bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
4 slices of bread (sourdough or whole wheat recommended)
4–6 slices sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese
Optional pinch of salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion with a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until golden and caramelized.
- Add apple slices and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until just softened. Set aside.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread with the remaining butter.
- On the non-buttered side of two slices, layer cheese, then top with the onion and apple mixture. Add more cheese if desired. Top with remaining bread, butter side out.
- Heat skillet over medium-low. Grill each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Let rest for a minute, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
Try brie or havarti cheese for a creamier melt.
Use pear slices instead of apple for a milder flavor.
Caramelized shallots or red onions offer a different sweetness.
Add a drizzle of honey or fig jam for a sweet boost.
Make ahead by preparing the onion-apple mixture, then assemble fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
