Havarti Caramelized Leek Cheese (Printable Version)

Creamy Havarti and sweet caramelized leeks meld in buttered artisan bread for a rich bite.

# 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

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add leeks, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until leeks are soft and caramelized, about 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 - Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
03 - Place two bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Evenly layer caramelized leeks over the bread, then top with Havarti cheese slices. Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
04 - Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook sandwiches until bread is golden brown and cheese has melted, about 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula for even grilling.
05 - Slice sandwiches in half and serve warm.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • The leeks transform into a sweet, jammy topping that pairs perfectly with mild cheese
  • It comes together in under 40 minutes but tastes like something from a cafe
  • The golden, buttery exterior gives way to an incredibly melty interior
02 -
  • Cleaning leeks properly is non-negotiable since grit hides between those layers
  • Medium-low heat is your friend for golden bread without burning before the cheese melts
  • Letting the leeks go a little darker than you think creates that deep, sweet flavor
03 -
  • Clean leeks thoroughly by slicing them lengthwise and rinsing between each layer under cold water
  • Pat the leeks dry after cooking so they do not make the bread soggy
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