Havarti & Caramelized Leek Grilled Cheese (Print version)

An elegant grilled cheese sandwich with melted Havarti, caramelized leeks, and artisan bread for a sophisticated comfort food experience.

# 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

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until leeks are soft and caramelized, about 12 to 15 minutes. Set aside.
02 - Lay out the bread slices. Spread one side of each slice with softened butter.
03 - Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Evenly distribute the 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 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 grilling.
05 - Slice sandwiches in half and serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The leeks become candy sweet and melt into the creamy Havarti like they were always meant to be together
  • Its the kind of fancy grilled cheese that makes a regular Tuesday feel like a treat yourself occasion
02 -
  • Low and slow is non negotiable for the leeks. High heat will burn them before they sweeten up
  • Medium low heat for grilling gives you crispy bread without burning the outside before the cheese melts
03 -
  • Clean leeks thoroughly after slicing. They trap grit between the layers and nothing ruins a luxurious bite like sand
  • Let the sandwiches rest for 30 seconds after grilling so the cheese sets slightly and does not slide right out when you cut them
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