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Grilled Cheese with Onion Jam, Taleggio, and Escarole

This sophisticated take on a classic vegetarian grilled cheese elevates the humble toastie into a gourmet meal. By combining the buttery, tangy notes of Taleggio with the deep sweetness of onion jam, you create a complex flavour profile that is perfectly balanced by the slight bitterness of fresh escarole. Using thick-cut sourdough ensures a satisfyingly crisp crunch that contrasts beautifully with the molten, gooey cheese filling.

Whether you are looking for a comforting weekend lunch or a quick evening meal, these sandwiches offer a restaurant-quality experience at home. The escarole provides a refreshing crunch and a boost of greens, making it a more substantial and nutritious option than your standard toasted sandwich. Serve whilst hot and bubbling for the ultimate seasonal comfort food.

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Ingredients for Grilled Cheese with Onion Jam, Taleggio, and Escarole

  • 4 (1/2-inch-thick) centre slices sourdough bread (from a 9- to 10-inch round)

  • 4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons onion or fig jam

  • 12 to 400g chilled Taleggio or Italian Fontina, sliced

  • 110g escarole, centre ribs discarded and leaves cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces (about 475ml )

How to make Grilled Cheese with Onion Jam, Taleggio, and Escarole

Brush 1 side of bread slices with oil and arrange, oil sides down, on a work surface. Spread jam on 2 slices of bread and divide cheese between remaining 2 slices. Mound escarole on top of cheese and season with salt and pepper, then assemble sandwiches.

Heat a dry 12-inch heavy skillet (not nonstick) over medium-low heat until hot. Cook sandwiches, turning once and pressing with a spatula to compact, until bread is golden-brown and cheese is melted, 6 to 8 minutes total.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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