Classic cheese and onion toastie recipe

While cheese and finely chopped raw onion, shallots or chives will always make a smashing pairing, gently cooking sliced onions until golden will take your toastie to the next level. 

Make double or triple the quantity of onions and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you’re short on time, try using a jar of caramelised onions.

Timings 

Prep time: 10 minutes 

Cooking time: 30-40 minutes 

Serves

1

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• ½ tsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 2 slices sourdough bread
• A knob of butter, softened
• ½ -1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 120g double Gloucester, cheddar or Gruyère, or a mix, grated

Method

1. Heat the oil in a frying pan and gently cook the onions with the sugar and thyme leaves for 20 minutes until softened and golden. Season with salt and pepper. 
2. Butter the bread on one side and spread the other side lightly with the Dijon mustard. 
3. Grate the cheese and pile on to the mustard side of one slice. 
4. Spoon over the onions, then press the remaining bread on top, ensuring the butter is on the outside.
5. Preheat a griddle or large frying pan and cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes, pressing down with the back of a spatula until deep golden.
6. Turn the sandwich and cook the second side for a further 3-4 minutes, and check the cheese is fully molten within. Cut in half and serve straight away.