Gourmet Grilled Cheese with Gouda, Mushrooms, Onions

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough or artisan bread
• 6 ounces Gouda cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• to taste salt and pepper
• optional fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet, toss the sliced mushrooms and onions with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in an even layer.
3. Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are golden brown and the onions are caramelized. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
4. While the mushrooms and onions are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
5. Assemble your grilled cheese: On two slices of bread, layer a generous amount of shredded Gouda, followed by the roasted mushrooms and onions, and then top with another layer of Gouda. Place another slice of bread on top.
6. Place the sandwiches in the heated skillet. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melting. You may need to reduce the heat to medium-low to avoid burning the bread.
7. Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing.
8. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves if desired.