Havarti Caramelized Leek Grilled Cheese (Printable format)

Creamy Havarti meets sweet caramelized leeks between golden buttery bread slices.

# What You Need:

→ 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

# How-To 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. 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 3–4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for even grilling.
05 - Slice sandwiches in half and serve warm.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The leeks transform into something sweeter and more complex than you ever thought possible
  • Havarti melts like a dream while adding just the right amount of subtle tang
02 -
  • Low and slow is the secret to perfectly sweet leeks without any bitter burnt edges
  • Medium-low heat for the sandwiches ensures the bread turns golden before the cheese escapes
03 -
  • Weighing down the sandwich with a second pan creates restaurant-worthy even pressing
  • Room temperature cheese melts faster and more evenly than cold slices straight from the fridge
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