Did you know that this Sunday, April 12 is National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day? Actually, every day should be Grilled Cheese Day IMO. What’s not to love about all that melted gooey cheese placed between two crunchy layers of bread? Here are my 14 picks in Atlanta to get your grilled cheese fix.
Thinking of celebrating National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day at home? No problem. I’ve got a terrific recipe for you:
2 large shallots 
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves
Salt, pepper
2 slices country white bread, sliced 1/2 -inch thick
5 ounces Cantal cheese, sliced 1/8-inch thick
Pre-heat oven to 300 degrees. Cut the shallots in half lengthwise and peel them. Place the shallots cut-side down. Slice lengthwise into about one-eighth-inch wedges. In a small saute pan, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and thyme and season lightly with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook gently, stirring often until the shallots are caramelized, about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Heat a cast iron or heavy-bottomed saute pan over medium heat. Add the remaining butter and swirl in the pan until it is melted. Place the two slices of bread in the pan and toast for a minute or two until just beginning to color. Divide the cheese evenly between the two pieces and top with the shallots.
Place the pan in the oven and cook 5 to 6 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden and crispy. Remove to a cutting board and carefully assemble the sandwich, placing together the two slices of bread. Cut in half on the diagonal and serve immediately.
Recipe / photo credit: LA Times
