Description
A gourmet grilled cheese sandwich featuring creamy gouda cheese, savory roasted cremini mushrooms, and sweet caramelized onions on rustic sourdough bread, perfect for a comforting and flavorful vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Spread
- 4 slices sourdough or rustic bread
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- Optional: mayonnaise for spreading on bread
Roasted Vegetables
- 1 cup sliced cremini or baby bella mushrooms
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded or sliced gouda cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare vegetables: Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a bowl, toss the sliced mushrooms and onions with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper to evenly coat. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast vegetables: Roast the mushrooms and onions in the oven for 15–18 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are golden, tender, and caramelized. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Heat skillet: Place a skillet or griddle over medium heat to warm up while assembling the sandwiches.
- Prepare bread slices: Lightly butter one side of each bread slice or spread with mayonnaise if preferred. This side will be cooked directly on the skillet.
- Assemble sandwiches: Place two bread slices buttered side down on the heated skillet. Layer each with half of the gouda cheese, then add a generous portion of the roasted mushrooms and onions on top. Cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Cook sandwiches: Grill the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula to evenly brown the bread and help the cheese melt. Cook until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve: Remove sandwiches from the skillet, slice in half if desired, and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Try smoked gouda for a deeper, smoky flavor in the sandwich.
- Add a few fresh spinach leaves or a swipe of Dijon mustard for an extra layer of taste and contrast.
- Use gluten-free bread if a gluten-free option is needed.
