Sandwiches > Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Toma di Balme and Bacon Grilled Cheese Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 slices of sourdough bread
- 8 oz. Toma di Balme cheese, sliced
- 8 slices of bacon
- 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Griddle or large skillet
- Spatula

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the bacon until crispy, then remove from heat and set aside.
3. Spread the softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
4. Place four slices of bread butter-side down on the griddle or skillet.
5. Top each slice of bread with a few slices of Toma di Balme cheese and a slice of bacon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top each sandwich with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
8. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 580
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 25g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Toma di Balme cheese can be substituted with any other semi-soft cheese such as Gouda or Fontina.
- Sourdough bread can be substituted with any other bread of your choice.
- Bacon can be substituted with ham or turkey bacon.

Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or avocado for a fresh twist.
- Use different types of cheese for a variety of flavors.
- Add a fried egg for a breakfast twist.

Tips and tricks:
- Use room temperature butter for easy spreading.
- Cook the bacon until crispy for added texture.
- Use a lid to cover the sandwich while cooking to help melt the cheese faster.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the sandwich in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
- Cut the sandwich into triangles or squares for a fun presentation.
- Serve with a side of tomato soup for a classic pairing.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.

Pairings:
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a light meal.
- Serve with a side of sweet potato fries for a hearty meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Tomato soup
- Green salad
- Sweet potato fries

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to low.
- If the cheese is not melting, cover the sandwich with a lid to help trap the heat.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Store any leftover sandwiches in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.

Food history:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches have been a popular comfort food in America since the 1920s.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, salty, and savory.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or snack.

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Taste: Savory, Salty, Smoky, Creamy, Cheesy