Get ready to transform the humble grilled cheese into a gourmet masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your dinner guests speechless! This Caramelized Pineapple Grilled Cheese with Honeyed Walnuts is not just a sandwich—it's a culinary adventure that combines sweet, savory, and crunchy elements into one irresistible bite. Imagine golden, crispy bread embracing melted cheese, caramelized pineapple, and honey-glazed walnuts that create a symphony of flavors you never knew could exist between two slices of bread.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 4 slices of cheese (cheddar or gouda)
- 1 cup pineapple, sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tbsp honey
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- Start by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the pineapple into rings or wedges, and chop the walnuts into smaller pieces. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts and honey. Mix well until the walnuts are evenly coated with honey. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced pineapple to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the pineapple is caramelized and has a golden-brown color. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Butter one side of each slice of bread generously. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet.
- On each slice of bread in the skillet, layer two slices of cheese. Then, add the caramelized pineapple on top of the cheese. Spread the honeyed walnuts evenly over the pineapple.
- Top with the remaining slices of cheese and cover with the other two slices of bread, buttered side up.
- Cook the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip the sandwiches over and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Once both sides are nicely toasted and the cheese is melted, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Let them cool for a minute before slicing them in half.
- Serve the caramelized pineapple grilled cheese warm, drizzled with any remaining honey and a sprinkle of additional chopped walnuts if desired.
Tips
- Use room temperature butter for even spreading and better browning.
- Choose a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or gouda, for optimal gooeyness.
- Cook on medium-low heat to ensure the bread becomes golden and crispy without burning.
- Press down gently with a spatula while grilling to help the sandwich cook evenly.
- Let the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a light sprinkle of cinnamon to the honeyed walnuts.
- Use fresh, high-quality bread for the best texture and taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
