Nothing compares to the indulgence of a hot, cheesy sandwich. But sometimes, you want to add a little gourmet flair. Our Open Faced Baked Cheese Sandwich is easy to make, and delivers flavors that will keep you coming back for more. It's delightfully melty, deeply satisfying, and ideal for a fast and easy meal.
Today, we're taking a classic comfort food and giving it a gourmet twist.
You are going to fall in love with this Open Faced Baked Cheese Sandwich.
It is the perfect way to elevate your sandwich game to a whole new level!
Ingredients and Subsitutions
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Use white wine vinegar if you prefer.
- Rice Wine Vinegar: You can use seasoned or unseasoned.
- Maple Syrup: Sugar, honey, or agave nectar would all work.
- Onion: I have made this with both white and yellow onion.
- Salt and Pepper: Adjust to your personal preference.
- Fontina Cheese: Swiss or gruyere cheese would also be good.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty and salty depth to the cheese mix.
- Cottage Cheese: Ricotta cheese would also be lovely here.
- Dijon Mustard: Spicy brown mustard is a good altenative.
- Smoked Paprika: Feel free to omit if you don't have it on hand.
- Bread: Choose gluten-free options if needed.
Tips and Tricks
- Let the onions pickle longer, even up to ovenight, to deepen their flavor.
- No oven-proof skillet? Sear the sandwiches in a regular skillet and then transfer to an oven-safe dish to finish.
- Pair with a simple green salad or a cup of tomato soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
More Sandwich Recipes to Try
- For those who appreciate hearty and savory meals, the Chicken Philly is a mouthwatering choice filled with tender chicken, sautéed onions, and melted cheese.
- Light yet incredibly satisfying, the Turkey Avocado Panini combines lean turkey breast, creamy avocado, and melty cheese in a toasted sandwich that's perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Prepare to indulge in the Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches, a slow-cooked delight that offers tender, juicy beef in a rich au jus sauce, all nestled within a crispy baguette.
- Lastly, for the cheese and avocado lovers, you can't miss the Guacamole Grilled Cheese, a fun and flavorful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich that's sure to become a new favorite.
Open Faced Baked Cheese Sandwiches with Pickled Onions
Nothing compares to the indulgence of a hot, cheesy sandwich. But sometimes, you want to add a little gourmet flair. Our Open Faced Baked Cheese Sandwich is easy to make, and delivers flavors that will keep you coming back for more. It's delightfully melty, deeply satisfying, and ideal for a fast and easy meal.
Servings: 4
Calories: 347kcal
Ingredients
Onions
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup rice wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 yellow onion shaved
- Salt and pepper
Sandwich
- 4 ounces fontina cheese grated
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese grated
- ⅓ cup cottage cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 slices bread gluten free
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, bring vinegar to a simmer. Remove from heat and add onion, salt and pepper. Allow to sit for 15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Heat an ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
- In a medium bowl, combine fontina, parmesan, cottage cheese, mustard and smoked paprika.
- Spray the skillet well with oil. Add top bread slices with cheese mixture and add to skillet, cheese side up. Cook for about 3 minutes, until the bottom browns. Add a tomato slice and transfer to the oven. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove from oven and transfer to serving plates.
- Drain onions and place on top of sandwiches. Serve with a salad.
Notes
Inspired by Rachel Ray
Nutrition
Calories: 347kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 935mg | Potassium: 175mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 630IU | Vitamin C: 2.1mg | Calcium: 557mg | Iron: 1.5mg
Regan @ Healthy Aperture says
Wendy I'm totally with you on this. I'd much rather have a lunch date and be in bed by 8:30 🙂 This recipe looks super yummy!
Serena Ball says
Loving the onion pickles...and who doesn't like cheese sandwiches. But why do i never buy fontina....great idea!