Crispy Onion Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Golden fried onions and melted cheese create a crispy, gooey sandwich that brings comfort food to the next level.

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Crispy Onions

01 - 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
02 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1/4 cup cornstarch
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
06 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
07 - 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of lemon juice)
08 - Vegetable oil, for frying

→ For the Sandwich

09 - 4 slices sourdough or white bread
10 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
11 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
12 - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated

# How to Make It:

01 - In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika. Place buttermilk in another bowl. Dip onion slices in buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
02 - Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry onions in batches until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
03 - Butter one side of each bread slice. Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
04 - Sprinkle half the cheddar and mozzarella evenly over each slice. Top with a generous layer of crispy onions, then the remaining cheese. Cover with the other bread slices, buttered side up.
05 - Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
06 - Remove from skillet, let rest briefly, then cut in half and serve hot.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The crunch of golden onions against melted cheese creates a texture contrast that makes every bite feel intentional and exciting.
  • It takes barely any extra time compared to a regular grilled cheese, but tastes like you planned something special.
  • You can make the onions ahead and keep them in the fridge for whenever a craving hits.
02 -
  • Don't rush the oil temperature or the onions will soak up grease and turn soggy instead of crispy.
  • Use medium low heat when grilling the sandwich or the bread will burn before the cheese has a chance to melt through.
  • Grate your own cheese because pre shredded varieties have anti caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
03 -
  • Press the sandwich gently with the spatula while it cooks to help the cheese melt evenly and bond with the onions.
  • If the onions start sliding out while you're flipping, use two spatulas to keep everything together.
  • Make a double batch of fried onions and keep them on hand because they're incredible on burgers, salads, and baked potatoes too.
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