Havarti Caramelized Leek Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

A gourmet twist on the classic sandwich with caramelized leeks, melted Havarti cheese, and golden buttery 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

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and caramelized, approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 - Lay out bread slices and spread one side of each slice with softened butter.
03 - Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean 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 sandwiches in the skillet and cook until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for even grilling.
05 - Slice sandwiches in half and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The leeks transform into something candy sweet and savory, like a built in onion jam
  • Havarti melts into the most gorgeous creamy puddle that holds everything together
  • This feels fancy enough for company but comes together in under 40 minutes
02 -
  • Low and slow is the secret to the leeks. Rushing them leaves them crunchy instead of sweet and silky.
  • Medium-low heat for the sandwiches prevents burning before the cheese melts through.
03 -
  • Clean leeks thoroughly after slicing. They hide grit deep between those layers.
  • Let the sandwich rest for a minute before slicing so the cheese sets slightly.
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