Apple-Gouda Grilled Cheese with Sage Butter Recipe

Introduction

This Apple-Gouda Grilled Cheese with Sage Butter combines sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors for an elevated twist on a classic sandwich. Crisp apple slices and creamy Gouda melt beautifully between buttery, sage-spread whole grain bread. It’s a cozy, satisfying meal perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 4 slices Whole Grain Bread
• For the Sage Butter:
  • 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Sage, chopped
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
• For the Sandwich:
  • 1 medium Apple, thinly sliced (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 4 ounces Gouda Cheese, sliced
  • Optional: Turkey Bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with chopped fresh sage. Season with salt and pepper, then stir until well combined. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Thinly slice the apple and Gouda cheese, ensuring even slices for quick warming and melting.
3. Step 3: Lay out the four bread slices. Spread the sage butter generously on one side of each slice. On two slices, place them buttered side down and layer with Gouda slices, followed by apple slices. If using, sprinkle crumbled turkey bacon on top. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
4. Step 4: Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Step 5: Place sandwiches on the skillet. Cook about 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts. Use a spatula to press gently and carefully flip.
6. Step 6: Remove sandwiches from the skillet and let rest for a minute. Slice in half and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Use thin apple slices (approximately 1/8 inch) to warm through without becoming mushy.
• If fresh sage isn’t available, substitute with one-third the amount of dried sage for a milder flavor.
• Add turkey bacon for extra savory crunch or swap Gouda for sharp cheddar for a different cheese profile.

Storage

Wrap any leftover sandwiches tightly in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore the crisp bread and melted cheese texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, feel free to use sweet apples like Honeycrisp or tart apples like Granny Smith. Choose one with a firm texture to hold up well when grilled.

What if I don’t have fresh sage?

Dry sage can be used instead but reduce the amount to about one-third to avoid overpowering the butter. Alternatively, try fresh thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note.

Apple-Gouda Grilled Cheese with Sage Butter Recipe

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4.9 from 253 reviews

A delicious and savory Apple-Gouda Grilled Cheese sandwich enhanced with fragrant sage butter and optional turkey bacon for added flavor. This recipe combines the sweetness of crisp apple slices with creamy melted Gouda cheese, all perfectly toasted on whole grain bread.

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sage Butter

• 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Sage, chopped
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

Sandwich

• 4 slices Whole Grain Bread
• 1 medium Apple, thinly sliced (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 4 ounces Gouda Cheese, sliced
• Optional: Turkey Bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sage Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter with the chopped fresh sage. Add a pinch of salt and pepper and stir until fully combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: Thinly slice the apple about 1/8 inch thick to ensure they warm through quickly without becoming mushy. Slice the Gouda cheese evenly for better melting across the bread.
3. Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out the four slices of whole grain bread. Spread the sage butter generously on one side of each slice. On two slices, buttered side down, layer the Gouda slices, then the thin apple slices. If using, sprinkle the crumbled turkey bacon on top of the apples. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Sandwich: Place the other two slices of bread on top, buttered side up. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts. Use a spatula to press gently and flip carefully to avoid spilling the filling.
5. Serve: Remove the sandwich from the skillet once both sides are toasted and the cheese is melted. Let it rest for a minute before slicing in half. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Use thin apple slices (approximately 1/8 inch) so they warm quickly without turning mushy.
• Fresh sage is preferred for the best flavor; if unavailable, substitute dried sage at one-third of the amount.
• Leftover sandwiches can be stored wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator and reheated in a skillet for optimal texture.

Keywords: Apple Gouda grilled cheese, sage butter sandwich, turkey bacon grilled cheese, autumn sandwich recipe, savory apple sandwich