Smoked Gouda & Apple Grilled Cheese

# What You'll Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough bread or country-style bread

02 - 4 oz smoked Gouda cheese, sliced

03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Fruit

04 - 1 small crisp apple such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, cored and thinly sliced

→ Optional Additions

05 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard

06 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

# Directions:

01 - Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice. Place the bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.

02 - If using, spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of two slices. Layer half of the Gouda slices on two bread slices. Arrange the apple slices evenly over the cheese, then top with the remaining Gouda. Season with black pepper if desired.

03 - Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.

04 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

05 - Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -

The combination of smoky and sweet flavors hits every craving at once
It transforms a simple sandwich into something that feels like a restaurant meal
Ready in 20 minutes but impressive enough for guests

02 -

Medium-low heat is non-negotiable. High heat burns the bread before the cheese melts.
Thin, even apple slices are the difference between a polite sandwich and a messy one.
Don't press too hard with your spatula or you'll squeeze out all the good stuff.

03 -