Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions Recipe

 Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions is the perfect blend of crispy, buttery bread, gooey melted cheese, and sweet, golden onions. It’s a comforting sandwich that takes a childhood favorite and turns it into something wonderfully rich and savory.

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

½ teaspoon sugar

Salt and black pepper, to taste

4 slices sourdough or country bread

1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for extra crispness)

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss, cheddar, or a mix)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for tang)

Instructions:

  1. Caramelize the Onions:

    In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, for about 20–25 minutes until soft and golden brown. Sprinkle sugar halfway through cooking to help them caramelize. Set aside once rich in color and slightly jammy.

  2. Assemble the Sandwiches:

    Lay out the bread slices. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or butter on one side of each slice (this will be the outside).

    On the unbuttered sides, spread Dijon mustard if using. Add a generous layer of shredded cheese, then spoon some caramelized onions evenly over the cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.

  3. Grill the Sandwiches:

    Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt a bit of butter, then place the sandwiches in the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

  4. Serve:

    Slice in half and serve hot, letting the cheese ooze out slightly for that perfect melt.

Tips:

  • Use a mix of cheeses—Gruyère for nuttiness, cheddar for sharpness, and mozzarella for meltiness.

  • If your onions cook too fast, lower the heat and add a splash of water to prevent burning.

  • Pair with tomato soup or a simple green salad for a satisfying meal.

Nutrition (per serving):

Calories: 520

Protein: 22g

Carbohydrates: 38g

Fat: 32g

Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 740mg