Havarti & Caramelized Leek Grilled Cheese

A gourmet grilled cheese featuring caramelized leeks and creamy Havarti cheese melted between slices of golden, buttery artisan bread.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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

# How-To Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until leeks are soft and caramelized, about 12 to 15 minutes. Set aside.

02 - Lay out the bread slices. Spread one side of each slice with softened butter.

03 - Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Evenly distribute the 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, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for even grilling.

05 - Slice sandwiches in half and serve warm.

# Helpful Tips:

01 -

The leeks develop a natural sweetness that balances the creamy Havarti perfectly
It takes a simple sandwich and makes it feel like something from a bistro
The texture contrast between the golden bread and melting cheese is absolute perfection

02 -

Low and slow is the secret to perfectly caramelized leeks without burning them
Medium-low heat prevents the bread from burning before the cheese melts
Pressing gently with your spatula helps the cheese adhere to both bread slices

03 -