Havarti & Caramelized Leek Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

A gourmet grilled cheese featuring sweet caramelized leeks and creamy Havarti cheese melted between golden, buttery artisan bread.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
04 - Pinch of salt
05 - Pinch of black pepper

→ Cheese

06 - 4 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced

→ Bread & Spreads

07 - 4 slices artisan or sourdough bread
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until leeks are soft and deeply caramelized, about 12 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
02 - Lay out all bread slices. Spread one side of each slice with softened butter, ensuring even coverage.
03 - Place two bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean work surface. Evenly distribute caramelized leeks on top. Layer with Havarti cheese slices. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
04 - Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for even heat distribution and melting.
05 - Remove sandwiches from skillet and slice diagonally in half. Serve immediately while warm.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • The leeks develop an unexpected sweetness that balances perfectly with creamy Havarti
  • Its fancy enough for a lunch date but simple enough for a Tuesday night
02 -
  • Low and slow is the secret to properly caramelized leeks, rushing them leaves them bitter and chewy
  • Medium low heat for grilling ensures the cheese melts completely before the bread burns
03 -
  • Clean leeks thoroughly after slicing, they hide grit between the layers
  • Let the sandwiches rest for a minute before slicing so the cheese sets slightly
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