Description
Transform your classic grilled cheese into a gourmet masterpiece with crispy maple-glazed bacon, premium cheese blend, and artisan bread. This Sweet Maple Bacon Grilled Cheese combines sweet and savory flavors for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients
6 slices thick-cut applewood smoked bacon
4 slices sourdough or brioche bread
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
2 oz smoked gouda cheese, sliced
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Optional: caramelized onions, hot honey drizzle, fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
2. Arrange bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet
3. Brush bacon with maple syrup and sprinkle with brown sugar
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy and caramelized
5. Butter one side of each bread slice
6. Place bread butter-side down in a cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat
7. Layer sharp cheddar and smoked gouda on two slices
8. Add 3 slices of maple bacon to each sandwich
9. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up
10. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted
11. Serve immediately while hot and crispy
Notes
Use medium-low heat to prevent burning while ensuring cheese melts completely
Cast-iron skillet provides the most even heating and crispy results
For healthier version, substitute turkey bacon and use whole grain bread
Sandwich is best served fresh but can be reheated in skillet to maintain crispiness
Pairs excellently with tomato soup or arugula salad
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 1200
- Fat: 42
- Saturated Fat: 20
- Unsaturated Fat: 18
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 28
- Cholesterol: 85