Introduction
Imagine biting into a warm, crispy grilled cheese sandwich that oozes with creamy Brie, the salty crunch of crispy bacon, and a luscious, tangy-sweet blackberry jam. Sounds heavenly, right? This Savory Brie, Bacon, and Blackberry Jam Grilled Cheese is not your ordinary sandwich; it’s an elevated version of a classic favorite that delivers bold flavors with each bite. Whether you’re craving a decadent lunch or a comforting dinner, this grilled cheese is the perfect gourmet choice that will satisfy your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This grilled cheese is the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The creamy Brie melts perfectly between the layers of crispy bacon and homemade blackberry jam, creating a sandwich that feels both indulgent and sophisticated. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve at a casual brunch or even as a fun dinner option with a side salad or fries.
Ingredients
- 8 small-medium slices of bread (poppy-seeded white bloomer works great)
- 8 slices of bacon, fried or baked to your preferred crispiness
- 2 heaping cups (300g) fresh blackberries
- 7oz (200g) Brie, sliced into wedges (3 per sandwich)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 pinches chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Butter, as needed
Directions
1. Make the Blackberry Jam
In a small pot over low-medium heat, combine the fresh blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Use a potato masher to gently burst the berries, creating a thin sauce. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the mixture bubble and reduce, stirring frequently. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens to a jam-like consistency. It will continue to thicken as it cools, so keep an eye on the texture.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
Butter one side of each slice of bread. On a large pan with the heat turned off, place two slices of bread butter-side-down. Spread 1 heaping tablespoon of the homemade blackberry jam onto each slice of bread, then top with 3 wedges of Brie, 2 slices of crispy bacon, and a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer some heat. Top with another slice of bread, butter-side facing out.
3. Cook the Grilled Cheese
Turn the heat to medium and fry the sandwiches until the bread is golden brown and crispy on both sides, and the Brie begins to melt and ooze. This should take about 3-5 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches if necessary.
4. Serve
Slice each grilled cheese sandwich in half and enjoy immediately while the cheese is warm and melty.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium frying pan
- Small saucepan
- Potato masher
- Spatula
- Butter knife
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Cheese
- Bread Choice: For the best texture and flavor, opt for a sturdy artisan bread like poppy-seeded white bloomer, sourdough, or a good-quality whole grain.
- Crispy Bacon: Cook your bacon to your preferred level of crispiness, but make sure it’s sturdy enough to add a nice crunch to the sandwich.
- Jam Consistency: Be mindful of the consistency of the jam. It should be thick enough to stay on the sandwich without running off, but not too thick that it becomes hard to spread.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Fruit Swap: If blackberries aren’t in season, you can substitute with raspberries, strawberries, or figs for a different fruity twist.
- Cheese Options: Brie works beautifully in this recipe, but you can also try Camembert or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Meat-Free Option: Skip the bacon and add roasted veggies like caramelized onions or roasted bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly version.
How to Store Leftovers
While these sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftover components separately. The blackberry jam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The assembled sandwiches can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but be aware that reheating might cause the bread to lose some of its crispiness.
Food and Drink Pairings
Serve this Brie, Bacon, and Blackberry Jam Grilled Cheese with a light salad on the side, such as an arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, while a sparkling cider or iced tea makes for a great non-alcoholic option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make the blackberry jam ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the jam up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s also great to have on hand for other recipes or as a spread on toast.
Q: Can I use store-bought jam?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can substitute homemade jam with a good-quality store-bought blackberry or fig jam.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, while Brie is recommended for its creamy texture, you can substitute with Camembert, goat cheese, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Savory Brie, Bacon, and Blackberry Jam Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
“Indulge in a gourmet twist with savory Brie, crispy bacon, and sweet blackberry jam in this irresistible grilled cheese sandwich. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 sandwiches