Michigan-Style Grilled Cheese with Smoked Gouda

Introduction

This Detroit-style grilled cheese is crispy on the outside and filled with a gooey blend of smoked Gouda and aged Michigan cheddar. Made entirely on the Arteflame grill, this sandwich delivers unmatched flavor with perfectly melted cheese and a golden-brown, buttery crust. Grilling on the flat cooktop ensures an even sear, making this the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of thick-cut sourdough bread
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 oz smoked Gouda, shredded
• 4 oz aged Michigan cheddar, shredded
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins inside the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire build up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the bread and cheese

1. Brush one side of each bread slice with melted butter.
2. In a bowl, mix shredded smoked Gouda and aged Michigan cheddar.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard to the cheese mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the sandwiches

1. Place half of the cheese mixture onto two slices of bread (buttered side down).
2. Top with the remaining bread slices (buttered side up).

Step 4: Grill the sandwiches

1. Place the sandwiches on the Arteflame flat cooktop near the center for a higher heat sear.
2. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
3. Move sandwiches to the outer cooktop area to finish melting the cheese without burning the bread.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Remove from the grill and let the sandwiches rest for 1 minute.
2. Slice diagonally and serve hot.

Tips

• Use thick-cut sourdough bread to get a crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior.
• Grill the sandwiches near the center of the cooktop for a crispier finish, then move them outward to avoid burning.
• Let the grilled cheese rest for a minute before cutting to allow the cheese to set slightly.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño: Add sliced pickled jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Bacon Lover’s: Add crispy cooked bacon between the layers of cheese.
3. Caramelized Onion: Grill some onions on the Arteflame cooktop and add them to the sandwich.
4. Caprese Style: Use fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
5. Truffle Delight: Add a drizzle of truffle oil and use truffle-infused cheese.

Best Pairings

• Tomato soup – A classic dip for grilled cheese.
• Grilled asparagus – A light, smoky vegetable side.
• Cold Michigan cider – A refreshing drink pairing.

Conclusion

With its golden-brown crust and perfectly melted cheese, this Michigan-style grilled cheese is truly irresistible. Made entirely on the Arteflame grill, it delivers unmatched flavors and textures. Try one of the variations for a unique twist, and enjoy your grilled masterpiece!