Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sandwich is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The crispy exterior, melty cheddar cheese, and juicy apple slices combined with the slight tang from mustard create a delightful bite. It’s quick and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, making it ideal for a comforting meal anytime. Plus, it’s the perfect way to use up fresh apples in a savory way!
Ingredients
- 4 slices of hearty bread (such as sourdough or whole grain)
- 1 medium apple (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons mustard (Dijon or yellow mustard depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Prepare Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice your apples thinly so they fit evenly in the sandwich. Shred your cheddar cheese and set it aside for easy access.
2. Assemble Sandwiches
Take two slices of bread and spread 1 tablespoon of mustard on one side of each slice. Layer the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on both slices. Add the sliced apples on top of the cheese on one slice, then top with the second slice of bread to complete the sandwich.
3. Butter the Bread
Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a small bowl. Carefully spread half of this melted butter on the outside of each assembled sandwich, ensuring the bread is well coated.
4. Grill the Sandwiches
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the sandwich butter-side down in the skillet. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, then carefully flip it over with a spatula and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes until both sides are crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Slice and Serve
Once cooked, remove from the heat and let the sandwich cool for a minute. Slice diagonally or vertically and serve while hot.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields 1 sandwich and takes approximately:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mustard for a spicy twist.
- Different Cheese: Try other types of cheese like Gouda, Brie, or Havarti for a unique flavor.
- Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
- Sweet and Savory: Drizzle honey on the inside of the bread for a touch of sweetness to complement the tang of the mustard.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the crispy texture. You can also use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of mustard for this sandwich?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of mustard. Dijon offers a mild kick, while yellow mustard is milder. You can even try spicy mustard or honey mustard for added flavor.
2. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Sourdough, whole grain, or even rye bread works wonderfully for this sandwich. Just choose a hearty bread that can hold up to grilling.
3. Can I add meat to the sandwich?
Yes, you can add cooked turkey, chicken, for a meaty twist. For a halal version, be sure to use halal-friendly meats.
4. How can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free bread for the sandwich to make it gluten-free. Ensure your mustard and cheese are also gluten-free.
5. Can I make the sandwich ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can assemble the sandwich and refrigerate it before grilling. Just be sure to grill it right before serving for the best texture.
6. Can I use pre-sliced cheese instead of shredded?
Yes, pre-sliced cheese works fine, but shredded cheese melts more evenly, making the sandwich creamier.
7. How can I make the sandwich crunchier?
To get an extra crispy exterior, butter the outside of the bread generously and press the sandwich down slightly with a spatula while grilling.
8. Can I make this sandwich in a panini press?
Yes, you can use a panini press to make the sandwich. It will create a nice crispy crust and melt the cheese evenly.
9. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any apple variety you like, but Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their balance of sweetness and tartness. Try Gala or Fuji apples for a sweeter flavor.
10. Can I make this sandwich without cheese?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by omitting the cheese and using a plant-based cheese alternative.
Conclusion
This Grilled Apple Cheddar Mustard Sandwich is a simple yet unique twist on the classic grilled cheese. With the sweet crunch of apples, sharp cheddar cheese, and the tangy kick from mustard, this sandwich delivers an unforgettable flavor combination. Quick and easy to make, it’s the perfect choice for lunch or a satisfying snack. Enjoy the crispy, melty goodness in every bite!
Grilled Apple Cheddar Mustard Sandwich
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Category: Lunch, Snacks, Quick Meals
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Grilled Apple Cheddar Mustard Sandwich combines the sweet crunch of apples, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy mustard for a mouthwatering twist on the classic grilled cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or dinner, it’s the ultimate comfort food with an unforgettable flavor combination.
Ingredients
4 slices of hearty bread (sourdough or whole grain recommended)
1 medium apple (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons mustard (Dijon or yellow mustard)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Slice the apple thinly so it fits evenly in the sandwich. Shred the cheddar cheese and set aside.
Spread 1 tablespoon of mustard on one side of each slice of bread. Layer shredded cheddar cheese on both slices. Add the sliced apples on top of the cheese on one slice, then top with the second slice of bread to complete the sandwich.
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and spread half of it on the outside of each assembled sandwich.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich butter-side down in the skillet. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, then flip and grill for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the heat, let cool slightly, and slice diagonally or vertically. Serve while hot.
Notes
Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeños or hot sauce to the mustard for extra heat.
Different Cheese: Try Gouda, Brie, or Havarti for a different flavor.
Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Sweet and Savory: Drizzle honey inside the bread for a sweet contrast with the tangy mustard.
