This Grilled Bacon Cheese Sandwich brings together everything you love about a classic grilled cheese with the fresh taste of heirloom tomatoes and salty crisp bacon. It's a warm, melty comfort food sandwich with layers of flavor that are sure to satisfy every craving.
I've always loved a simple grilled cheese, but once I started adding bacon and fresh tomatoes, I knew it would become a favorite. The heirloom tomatoes are inspired by the ones I used in my Grilled Tomato and Brie Sandwiches, and just like that recipe, they bring a fresh from the garden flavor that's hard to beat!
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Why You Need This Sandwich
Heirloom Tomatoes: Unlike regular tomatoes, these stay meaty and won't turn your sandwich into a soggy mess.
Smoky Heat: Using smoked pepper jack cheese gives you a layer of heat and smoke that compliments this sandwich well.
Crunch Factor: You get a satisfying crunch from the thick-cut bacon and artisan bread against all that gooey melted cheese.
Key Ingredients
Butter: For crisp, golden bread that's perfectly grilled.
Artisan Bread: A sturdy loaf like Tuscan Pane holds up well to the juicy tomato and melty cheese. I like it plain or with rosemary.
Thick-Cut Bacon: Adds a salty crunch that balances the creamy cheese and soft tomato.
Heirloom Tomatoes: Juicy and flavorful, these bring a burst of summer freshness.
Swiss Cheese: Melts smoothly and gives the sandwich a creamy texture.
Smoked Pepper Jack Cheese: Adds a hint of spice and smokiness that makes this sandwich irresistible.
Make it Your Own
Swap Swiss for Muenster: If you want an even creamier, buttery melt, Muenster is my go-to over Swiss.
Try Crispy Prosciutto: Swap the bacon for pan-fried prosciutto if you want a saltier crunch that doesn't overfill the sandwich.
Sourdough instead of Tuscan: Use Sourdough instead of Tuscan bread if you like a sharp, tangy bite to cut through the rich cheese.
Shelby's Favorite Swap: If you make one change, go with the Muenster. It has much lower melting point than swiss, so you get that perfect gooey center without burning yur bread while you wait for it to melt!
Easy Ways to Switch it Up
Add caramelized onions: If you have the time, these add a sweet, jammy layer that pairs perfectly with the salty bacon.
The Mayo Trick: Swap the butter on the outside of the bread for a thin layer of mayo to get an even crispier, darker gold crust.
Make it Spicy: Keep the bacon and tomato, but add a few thin slices of fresh jalapeno inside for a kick that works great with the smoked Jack cheese.
Top Tips for the Best Sandwich
Press it: Use a sandwich press or small skillet to get even grilling and melty goodness.
Drain the tomatoes: Slice and lay them on paper towels for 10 minutes to pull out moisture.
Cook low and slow: This ensures the cheese melts before the bread browns too fast.
What to Serve with Your Sandwich
Pair this with a Creamy Tomato Soup for the ultimate classic combo. For a lighter side, try a Strawberry Spinach Salad, or some Air Fryer Potato Wedges.
If youg ive this a try, I'd love to hear how it turned out! Please leave a comment and rating below to let me know if you used the heirloom tomatoes or your favorite swap. Don't forget to tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your sandwich!
📖 Recipe
Bacon Grilled Cheese with Heirloom Tomatoes
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Ingredients
- 8 slices thick cut bacon cooked
- 8 slices artisan bread
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes cut into 8 slices
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 4 ounces smoked jack cheese grated
- 4 ounces swiss cheese grated
- 2 scallions thinly sliced
- maldon salt (optional)
Instructions
- Spread ½ tablespoon of mayonnaise over one side of each slice of bread.
- Place ¼ cup of cheese on the bottom slice of bread. Next, add 1 slice of the bacon and top with 1 tablespoon of cheese. Layer two tomato slices on top of the cheese and top with 1 more tablespoon of cheese. Top with 1 more bacon slice and 2 more tablespoons of cheese. Repeat this step for all 4 sandwiches.
- Place the sandwich on the grill and cover with the second slice of bread. Cook on medium low for 3 minutes, or until sandwich is golden on the bottom and the cheese is melting.
- Flip the sandwich and cook for another 3 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese has melted. Press the sandwich with a small heavy cast iron pan if needed to aid in the cheese melting.
Shelby Law Ruttan says
One of my favorites. A delicious combination of cheese and bacon with buttery crispy bread and fresh tomato slices made the perfect summertime lunch!