Havarti Caramelized Leek Grilled Cheese

# What You'll 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 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced

→ Bread & Spreads

07 - 4 slices artisan or sourdough bread

08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# How to Make It:

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 softened butter evenly on one side of each slice.

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 for even grilling.

05 - Slice each sandwich in half diagonally and serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -

The sweetness of caramelized leeks balances perfectly with Havartis creamy mildness
It transforms ordinary grilled cheese into something that feels like a treat from a fancy cafe
The whole process takes just over half an hour but tastes like you spent all afternoon cooking

02 -

Leeks can hide dirt between their layers, so slice them lengthwise first and rinse thoroughly under cold water
Medium-low heat is essential for grilling; high heat burns the bread before the cheese melts
The leeks can be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator for up to three days

03 -