Bacon Guacamole Grilled Cheese

This bacon guacamole grilled cheese sandwich transforms the classic comfort food into something extraordinary. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy guacamole, and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion that's both familiar and exciting at the same time.

I started making this sandwich when my kids were going through a picky eating phase. The familiar grilled cheese format with the addition of guacamole was the perfect way to introduce new flavors, and now it's requested at least once a week in our home.

Ingredients

• Bread Choose a sturdy variety like sourdough or country white that can hold up to the fillings
• Cheddar cheese Use sharp cheddar for the most flavor impact
• Guacamole Fresh is best, but store bought works in a pinch
• Bacon Cook until crispy for the perfect textural contrast
• Butter Softened butter spreads more easily for perfect browning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the bread

Spread softened butter evenly across one side of each bread slice, making sure to reach all the way to the edges for perfect browning

Build the sandwich

On the unbuttered sides of two slices, layer generous amounts of shredded cheddar, followed by a thick layer of guacamole and finally the crispy bacon strips broken to fit

Complete the sandwich

Top with the remaining bread slices, positioning the buttered sides facing outward to create that golden crust when cooked

Initial cooking

Place sandwiches in a preheated skillet over medium heat and cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom develops a rich golden color and the cheese begins to melt

Flip and finish

Carefully turn the sandwiches using a spatula, pressing gently to ensure good contact with the pan, and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until both sides are golden and the cheese has completely melted

Serve immediately

Remove from heat, slice diagonally for the most appealing presentation, and serve while hot for the best cheese-pull experience

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The bacon is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered that cooking the bacon until perfectly crisp before adding it to the sandwich makes all the difference. My husband once called this the "ultimate hangover cure" after I made it for him following a late night, and the name has stuck in our household ever since.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare all components in advance for quick assembly. Cook the bacon and refrigerate for up to three days. Make the guacamole no more than 24 hours before using and store with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent browning. When ready to make the sandwiches, simply assemble and cook as directed for a fresh hot meal in minutes.

Customize Your Sandwich

This versatile recipe welcomes many variations. Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick, add sliced tomatoes for freshness, or include thinly sliced avocado instead of guacamole for a different texture. For a breakfast version, add a fried egg between the layers of bacon and guacamole. The possibilities are endless, making this a template recipe you can adapt based on what you have available.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this indulgent sandwich with something light and acidic to balance the richness. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette works beautifully, as does a small bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combination. For a fun presentation, cut into quarters and serve as an appetizer at casual gatherings where finger foods are appropriate.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of bread works best for this sandwich?

While any bread works, sourdough or a hearty white bread holds up well to the fillings. The key is selecting bread that can get crispy on the outside while supporting the melted cheese and guacamole inside without becoming soggy.

→ Can I prepare the guacamole in advance?

Fresh guacamole is best, but you can prepare it up to 24 hours ahead. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole and store in the refrigerator. Adding extra lime juice also helps maintain its color.

→ What cheese alternatives work well in this sandwich?

While cheddar provides classic flavor, monterey jack, pepper jack for spice, or a combination of cheeses creates delicious variations. For best results, use cheeses that melt smoothly and complement the guacamole's creaminess.

→ How do I prevent the guacamole from making the sandwich soggy?

Layer cheese on both bread slices first, then add guacamole and bacon between the cheese layers. This creates a barrier that helps prevent moisture from the guacamole soaking into the bread.

→ Can I make this sandwich without bacon for a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon for a vegetarian version. For added flavor and texture, consider substituting with sliced tomatoes, caramelized onions, or plant-based bacon alternatives.

→ What sides pair well with this sandwich?

This sandwich pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, a side salad, tomato soup, or sweet potato fries. For a Mexican-inspired meal, serve with a small portion of black bean soup or elote (Mexican street corn).