Caramelized Apple and Irish Bacon Grilled Cheese

Introduction

Get ready for a mouthwatering grilled cheese experience with sweet caramelized apples and crispy bacon, melted between rich, creamy Irish cheese. This sandwich is grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, giving it an even sear without burning and a delightful crunch in every bite. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will make this your new favorite grilled cheese recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 4 slices Irish cheese (such as Dubliner or Kerrygold)
• 6 strips thick-cut bacon
• 1 large apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper napkins and let the fire spread.
4. Wait approximately 20 minutes until the grill is hot and the flat cooktop has different heat zones ready for cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Place the bacon strips on the hot flat cooktop near the center for a crisp sear.
2. Flip the bacon occasionally until crispy, then transfer to a cooler spot on the cooktop to keep warm.

Step 3: Caramelize the Apples

1. Add butter to the flat cooktop.
2. Place apple slices on the buttered surface and sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, sea salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook until the apples are soft and caramelized, about 4 minutes per side.
4. Remove from the cooktop and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on the griddle.
3. Top each with a slice of cheese, caramelized apples, crispy bacon, and another slice of cheese.
4. Cover with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up.

Step 5: Grill the Sandwich

1. Grill the sandwiches on the flat cooktop, moving them to a medium heat zone to prevent burning.
2. Press down lightly with a spatula and cook until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side.
3. Flip and repeat until the bread is crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

Tips

• Use Irish butter for extra flavor.
• Adjust cooking zone placement to control heat intensity.
• If your cheese isn't melting fast enough, cover the sandwich with a heat-safe bowl for a moment.
• Pre-toast the bread edges slightly before placing on the cooktop for an extra crunch.

Variations

1. Maple Bacon Delight: Drizzle maple syrup over the bacon before assembling for a sweet twist.
2. Pepper Jack Kick: Use pepper jack cheese instead of Irish cheese for some spice.
3. Brie and Fig Melt: Substitute Irish cheese with creamy brie and add fig jam for extra depth.
4. Blue Cheese and Walnut: Add crumbled blue cheese and toasted walnuts for a rich, nutty flavor.
5. Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese: Replace bacon with thinly sliced ham for a more delicate taste.

Conclusion

This Caramelized Apple and Irish Bacon Grilled Cheese is the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. Whether it's for lunch, dinner, or a comfort-food craving, this sandwich is sure to impress!

Best Pairings

• Pair with a cold Irish cider for a refreshing balance.
• Serve alongside a creamy tomato soup for a classic comfort meal.
• A side of arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully.