# What You’ll Need:
→ Bacon Jam
01 - 8 ounces thick-cut bacon, chopped
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
05 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
06 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
07 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
08 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
→ Grilled Cheese
10 - 8 slices sourdough or country bread
11 - 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
12 - 4 ounces Gruyère cheese, sliced
13 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 tablespoon bacon fat in the pan.
02 - Add diced onion to the pan and cook until caramelized, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
03 - Return bacon to the skillet. Add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Simmer over low heat, stirring frequently, until thickened and jam-like, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
04 - Lay out the bread slices. Spread a generous layer of bacon jam on four slices. Top each with cheddar and Gruyère cheese. Close sandwiches with remaining bread slices.
05 - Spread softened butter evenly on the outside surfaces of each sandwich.
06 - Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
07 - Allow sandwiches to rest for 1 to 2 minutes before slicing and serving.
