Are you a fan of Starbucks' delicious Bacon Gouda sandwich? That savory, melty goodness is now within your reach! This recipe will guide you through making a copycat version at home, saving you money and letting you customize it to your liking. Forget expensive coffee shop runs; prepare for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend brunches, or a satisfying lunch. It's a delicious example of healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy
- 4 slices of sourdough bread (or your favorite bread)
- 4 slices of Gouda cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra richness)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Bacon: Cook the bacon to your preferred crispness. I recommend cooking it until it’s golden brown and slightly crispy for optimal texture. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Spread the Base: Spread the softened butter (and mayonnaise, if using) evenly on one side of each bread slice.
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Assemble the Sandwich: Layer two slices of bread, butter-side down. On the bottom slice, arrange two slices of Gouda cheese, followed by two slices of crispy bacon. Top with the remaining Gouda and the final slice of bread, butter-side up.
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Cook the Sandwich: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking and cheese melting.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute or two before slicing in half. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste and serve immediately. This is a quick dinner idea perfect for any time of the day!
Tips for the Best Bacon Gouda Sandwich:
- Bacon Quality Matters: Using high-quality, thick-cut bacon makes all the difference.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Give the sandwich enough space in the pan to cook evenly.
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Sharp cheddar or Gruyere would also be delicious.
- Bread Choice: While sourdough is recommended for its texture and flavor, any sturdy bread will work.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mayonnaise for a little heat.
- Added Veggies: Incorporate caramelized onions or sauteed mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
- Different Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like chives or parsley before serving for extra freshness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This homemade Bacon Gouda sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. It's a great option for those looking for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this delicious and easy copycat recipe that tastes just as good (if not better!) than the coffee shop version. This recipe offers a healthy meal option without sacrificing taste. It's one of the best recipes for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting and flavorful. Homemade cooking has never been easier or more delicious!