Save to Pinterest The first time I made these, I was stuck inside on a gray Sunday with leeks wilting in my crisper drawer. Something about slow-cooking them until they turned into this sweet, golden jam felt like the perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon.
My roommate wandered into the kitchen halfway through, drawn by the smell of butter and onions hitting the heat. We ended up eating them standing at the counter, watching rain streak against the window, and agreed this was the best comfort food discovery wed made in months.
Ingredients
- 2 medium leeks: White and light green parts only, thinly sliced. The dark green ends are too tough but work great in homemade stock.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Prevents the butter from burning while the leeks cook down.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness to the leeks as they caramelize.
- Salt and pepper: Just a pinch each to enhance the leeks natural sweetness.
- 120 g Havarti cheese: Sliced. Its mild creaminess lets the leeks shine while adding incredible melt.
- 4 slices artisan bread: Sourdough or another sturdy bread that can hold up to the filling without getting soggy.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Softened for spreading on the bread exterior. This is what creates that golden, crispy crust.
Instructions
- Caramelize the leeks:
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown, about 12 to 15 minutes.
- Prep the bread:
- Lay out all four slices and spread one side of each with softened butter. This buttered side will face out when you grill them.
- Assemble the sandwiches:
- Place two slices buttered side down on your work surface. Divide the caramelized leeks evenly between them, then layer Havarti slices on top. Finish with the remaining bread, buttered side facing up.
- Grill to perfection:
- Heat a clean skillet over medium-low heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and cook about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese has melted completely. Press gently with a spatula for even contact with the pan.
- Serve immediately:
- Slice each sandwich in half and eat while they are still warm and gooey.
Save to Pinterest This recipe became my go-to for nights when takeout sounded too complicated but I wanted something that felt special. Theres something about the combination of sweet leeks and creamy cheese that just works.
Bread Choices
Ive found that sourdough gives the best crunch, but a good country loaf or even thick-cut whole wheat works beautifully. The key is using bread that can stand up to the filling without falling apart.
Make It Yours
Sometimes I add a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of the bread for a little tang. A few fresh thyme leaves in with the leeks during the last minute of cooking adds something special too.
Serving Suggestions
A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Tomato soup is classic, but a cup of butternut squash soup feels even more elegant for this grown-up grilled cheese.
- Let the sandwiches rest for a minute before slicing so the cheese sets slightly
- Cut on a diagonal for easier eating
- Keep the heat on the lower side to ensure the cheese melts completely
Save to Pinterest Some recipes are just worth the extra effort, and this one absolutely qualifies. Enjoy every bite.
Questions & Answers
- → How long does it take to caramelize the leeks?
Leeks typically require 12-15 minutes of slow cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This allows them to become soft and develop a golden, sweet caramelized flavor. Don't rush this step, as it's essential for the depth of flavor in your sandwich.
- → Can I substitute Havarti with another cheese?
Yes, Gruyère and Fontina are excellent alternatives that offer similar creamy melting qualities. Both cheeses have complementary flavors that work well with caramelized leeks. Choose semi-soft cheeses that melt smoothly for the best results.
- → What bread works best for this sandwich?
Artisan or sourdough bread provides sturdy structure and rich flavor that holds up well to the melted cheese and caramelized leeks. The tanginess of sourdough particularly complements the sweetness of the caramelized leeks.
- → How do I prevent the bread from burning while the cheese melts?
Use medium-low heat and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for even contact with the skillet. This allows the cheese to melt thoroughly without browning the bread too quickly.
- → What beverages pair well with this sandwich?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc pair beautifully with the creamy cheese and sweet leeks. Alternatively, serve alongside tomato soup or a light green salad for a complete meal.
- → Can I prepare the caramelized leeks in advance?
Yes, you can caramelize the leeks up to 2 days ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before assembling your sandwich for the best flavor and texture.