Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe

Are you looking to elevate your grilled cheese game? The Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese sandwich is a perfect blend of gooey, creamy brie and crispy, savory bacon, all nestled between golden, buttery slices of bread. This gourmet twist on a classic comfort food is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a decadent snack. Read on for a step-by-step guide to making this delicious sandwich at home.

this Recipes

What is a Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese?

A Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese sandwich is an indulgent variation of the traditional grilled cheese. It combines the rich, creamy texture of brie cheese with the crispy, smoky flavor of bacon. The sandwich is grilled to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a melty, cheesy interior. This combination creates a mouthwatering sandwich that’s both sophisticated and satisfying.

Ingredients List for Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese

Basic Ingredients

• Brie Cheese: 6-8 ounces, sliced
• Bacon: 6-8 slices, cooked until crispy
• Bread: 8 slices (sourdough, ciabatta, or your favorite type)
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, softened
• Honey: 2 tablespoons (optional, for drizzling)
• Arugula: 1 cup (optional, for added freshness)

Optional Ingredients

• Apple Slices: Thinly sliced, for a sweet and tangy contrast
• Fig Jam: For a touch of sweetness
• Caramelized Onions: For added depth of flavor
• Fresh Herbs: Such as thyme or rosemary, for garnish

Substitutions and Variations

Customize your Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese with these substitutions and variations:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make the sandwich gluten-free.
• Turkey Bacon: Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Different Cheeses: Try other soft cheeses like Camembert or goat cheese.
• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Sweet Addition: Add a touch of sweetness with pear slices or cranberry sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it is crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches: Place half of the bread slices, butter side down, on a cutting board or plate. Top each slice with brie cheese slices, followed by crispy bacon. Add optional ingredients like apple slices, fig jam, caramelized onions, or arugula. Drizzle with honey if desired. Top with the remaining bread slices, butter side up.
4. Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even grilling.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overloading with Ingredients: Too many fillings can make the sandwich difficult to grill evenly and eat.
• High Heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the bread before the cheese melts. Medium heat ensures even cooking.
• Using Cold Butter: Ensure the butter is softened for easy spreading and even browning.
• Skipping the Pre-Cook on Bacon: Make sure the bacon is fully cooked and crispy before adding it to the sandwich to avoid a chewy texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese

This gourmet sandwich pairs well with various sides for a complete meal:

• Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of the grilled cheese.
• Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a delightful contrast.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can balance the richness of the sandwich.

Presentation Ideas for Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve on a Wooden Board: Present the sandwiches on a rustic wooden board for an inviting look.
• Cut Diagonally: Slice the sandwiches diagonally for a classic presentation.

Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe Tips

• Preheat the Skillet: Ensure your skillet is preheated for even grilling.
• Press with a Pan: Use another pan to press down on the sandwiches while grilling for a crispy exterior.
• Room Temperature Brie: Let the brie come to room temperature for easier slicing and melting.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different combinations of fillings and breads.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer. Sourdough, ciabatta, and whole grain are all great options.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

Q: Can I make this sandwich in a panini press?
A: Absolutely! A panini press works well for this sandwich and gives it a nice, even crisp.

Q: What can I use instead of brie cheese?
A: You can substitute brie with other soft cheeses like Camembert or even a mild goat cheese.

Q: Is it possible to make this sandwich ahead of time?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble the sandwiches in advance and refrigerate them. Cook them just before serving for the best results.

Conclusion

The Bacon & Brie Grilled Cheese sandwich is a delicious, gourmet twist on a classic favorite. With its rich, creamy brie, crispy bacon, and perfectly grilled bread, this sandwich is sure to impress. Whether you're making it for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or a special occasion, it's a recipe that’s both simple to prepare and indulgent to enjoy.

Try it out today and savor the mouthwatering combination of flavors. Happy cooking!

Print