Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese With Bacon Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of crispy bacon, creamy brie, and tangy sourdough bread coming together in perfect harmony. This Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese with Bacon recipe elevates the classic comfort food to gourmet status, creating a sandwich that’s both sophisticated and satisfying.

I’ve perfected this recipe through countless kitchen experiments, and I’m excited to share the secrets that make this grilled cheese absolutely irresistible. Get ready to create a sandwich so delicious, it’ll become your new go-to comfort food!

What is Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese With Bacon?

Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese with Bacon is a gourmet twist on the traditional grilled cheese sandwich. This elevated version features thick slices of tangy sourdough bread, filled with creamy brie cheese that melts into velvety perfection, and crispy bacon that adds a smoky, salty crunch.

The sourdough bread provides the perfect balance with its slightly sour flavor and sturdy texture that holds up beautifully to the rich fillings. The brie cheese creates an incredibly creamy, luxurious mouthfeel, while the bacon adds that irresistible smoky element that makes each bite absolutely divine.

This sandwich represents the perfect marriage of rustic and refined, combining simple ingredients in a way that creates something truly special. It’s comfort food that doesn’t compromise on flavor or quality.

Ingredients List for Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese With Bacon

• 8 thick slices sourdough bread (about ¾ inch thick)
• 8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
• 8 strips thick-cut bacon
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fig jam or apricot preserves (optional)
• 1 medium apple, thinly sliced (optional)
• Fresh arugula or spinach leaves (optional)
• Black pepper to taste

How to Make Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese With Bacon: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating the perfect Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese with Bacon requires attention to detail and proper timing. Here’s my foolproof method for achieving grilled cheese perfection:

1. Prepare the Bacon:

• Cook the bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes.
• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
• Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat if desired for extra flavor.

2. Prepare the Brie:

• Remove the brie from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
• Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the rind from the brie cheese.
• Slice the brie into ¼-inch thick pieces for even melting.

3. Assemble the Sandwiches:

• Lay out 4 slices of sourdough bread on your work surface.
• Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each slice if using.
• Add a layer of fig jam or apricot preserves if desired for sweetness.
• Distribute the brie slices evenly among the 4 bread slices.
• Break the bacon strips in half and layer over the brie.
• Add apple slices and arugula if using for extra flavor and crunch.
• Top with remaining bread slices.

4. Butter the Bread:

• Spread softened butter generously on the outside of each sandwich.
• Make sure to cover the entire surface for even browning.
• Sprinkle a pinch of black pepper on the buttered surfaces for extra flavor.

5. Cook the Grilled Cheese:

• Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
• Place sandwiches in the pan, leaving space between each one.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and crispy.
• Carefully flip using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
• Press down gently with the spatula to ensure even cooking and cheese melting.

6. Final Touch:

• Remove from heat when both sides are golden brown and cheese is melted.
• Let rest for 1-2 minutes before cutting to allow cheese to set slightly.
• Cut diagonally with a sharp knife and serve immediately.

Substitutions and Variations

This versatile recipe offers plenty of room for customization based on your preferences and dietary needs:

• Bread Options: Try brioche, challah, or whole grain bread for different flavors and textures.
• Cheese Alternatives: Camembert, goat cheese, or aged cheddar can replace brie for different flavor profiles.
• Bacon Substitutes: Prosciutto, pancetta, or turkey bacon work well as alternatives.
• Spreads: Try cranberry sauce, caramelized onions, or pesto instead of fig jam.
• Add-ins: Sliced pears, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms make excellent additions.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan butter and dairy-free brie alternatives for those avoiding dairy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your grilled cheese turns out perfectly every time:

• Using High Heat: Cooking on too high heat will burn the bread before the cheese melts properly.
• Cold Brie: Room temperature brie melts much more evenly than cold cheese straight from the fridge.
• Overstuffing: Too much filling will make the sandwich difficult to flip and eat.
• Insufficient Butter: Don’t skimp on butter – it’s essential for achieving that golden, crispy crust.
• Rushing the Process: Low and slow cooking ensures the cheese melts completely while the bread crisps perfectly.

How to Serve Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese With Bacon

This gourmet grilled cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments:

Classic Pairings:

• Creamy tomato soup for dipping
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Crispy kettle chips or sweet potato fries

Elevated Options:

• Butternut squash soup
• Arugula salad with balsamic reduction
• Roasted vegetables or caramelized onions

Beverages:

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
• Craft beer, particularly wheat beers or pale ales
• Hot apple cider or herbal tea for a cozy touch

Presentation Ideas for Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese With Bacon

Make your grilled cheese visually appealing with these presentation tips:

• Restaurant-Style Plating: Cut diagonally and arrange on a white plate with a small side of soup in a ramekin.
• Rustic Charm: Serve on a wooden cutting board with cornichons and whole grain mustard on the side.
• Elegant Touch: Garnish the plate with microgreens and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Family Style: Stack multiple sandwiches on a large platter with various dipping sauces.

Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe Tips

Here are my top tips for grilled cheese success:

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality sourdough bread and authentic brie for the best flavor.
• Temperature Control: Keep heat at medium-low to ensure even cooking without burning.
• Patience is Key: Don’t rush the melting process – good cheese takes time to melt properly.
• Prep Everything First: Have all ingredients ready before you start cooking for smooth assembly.
• Cast Iron Advantage: A cast iron skillet provides excellent heat distribution for even browning.

How to Store Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese With Bacon

While grilled cheese is best enjoyed fresh and hot, here’s how to handle leftovers:

Immediate Storage:

• Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
• Wrap individually in parchment paper or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating Instructions:

• Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, covered, for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Alternatively, use a toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving as it will make the bread soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this grilled cheese ahead of time?
A: While best served immediately, you can assemble the sandwiches up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerate. Cook just before serving for optimal results.

Q: What’s the best way to remove brie rind?
A: Use a sharp paring knife to carefully slice away the white rind. The cheese should be at room temperature for easier handling.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
A: Absolutely! Pre-cooked bacon works well and saves time. Just warm it slightly before adding to the sandwich.

Q: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
A: Don’t overfill the sandwich, and make sure to seal the edges by pressing gently around the perimeter before cooking.

Q: Can I freeze these sandwiches?
A: Freezing isn’t recommended as the texture of both the bread and cheese will be compromised when thawed.

Q: What if I don’t like brie?
A: Try camembert for a similar creamy texture, or use aged cheddar for a sharper flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Sourdough Brie Grilled Cheese with Bacon recipe transforms a simple sandwich into a gourmet experience that satisfies both comfort food cravings and sophisticated palates. The combination of tangy sourdough, creamy brie, and crispy bacon creates a harmony of flavors and textures that’s truly irresistible.

I’ve found that this recipe never fails to impress, whether I’m making it for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or when entertaining guests. The key lies in using quality ingredients, maintaining proper cooking temperature, and being patient with the melting process.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with the suggested variations to make this recipe your own. The beauty of this grilled cheese lies in its versatility and the way simple ingredients can be elevated into something extraordinary. So fire up your skillet, gather your ingredients, and prepare to create a grilled cheese sandwich that will become a permanent fixture in your recipe collection. Happy cooking!