Havarti Caramelized Leek Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Golden bread with melted Havarti and sweet caramelized leeks create this comforting sandwich, ready in 35 minutes.

# Components:

→ 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 oz Havarti cheese, sliced

→ Bread & Spreads

07 - 4 slices artisan or sourdough bread
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until leeks are soft and caramelized, about 12–15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 - Lay out all bread slices. Spread one side of each slice evenly with softened butter.
03 - Place two bread slices buttered side down on a clean surface. Distribute caramelized leeks evenly over both slices. Layer Havarti cheese slices on top of the leeks. 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 3–4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula during cooking for even grilling.
05 - Slice each sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The leeks turn into something like onion jam but sweeter and more sophisticated
  • Havarti melts into this incredible silky blanket that hugs every bite
  • Ready in under 40 minutes but tastes like something from a fancy bistro
02 -
  • Low and slow is the secret to perfect leeks, rushing them means they will not develop that deep sweetness
  • Medium low heat for grilling prevents burning the bread before the cheese melts through
  • Letting the sandwiches rest for 30 seconds after cutting helps keep everything together
03 -
  • Clean leeks thoroughly after slicing, they hide grit between the layers
  • Let the caramelized leeks cool slightly before assembling so the cheese does not start melting too soon
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