The Ultimate Grilled Cheese {4 Cheeses, Bacon & Leeks}

1. 1

   Lets deal with the leeks first. Discard the tough green ends. Slice the leeks and place into a bowl of cold water. work the pieces a bit with your hands to remove any dirt. The dirt will fall to the bottom of the bowl and the leeks will float.

2. 2

   Drain and dry the leeks well on a paper towel.

3. 3

   In a large pan, cook off all the bacon until crisp and place onto a paper towel to absorb excess grease.

4. 4

   Leave that bacon grease in the pan and add the leeks and let them slowly soften and caramelize over low heat. Be patient, this goodness takes a little time. {Note: no need to salt these, there is plenty flavor in the bacon grease}

5. 5

   Once the leeks are softened go ahead and add the garlic and cook for a few more minutes.

6. 6

   Shred all the cheese and mix to combine.

7. 7

   Thats all, lets assemble now!

8. 8

   Spread some of the cheese onto a slice of the bread. Top with 2-3 slices of bacon and a good layer of the leeks. Top with more cheese and the other slice of bread.

9. 9

   Place onto a panini grill {on a frying pan is ok too} and cook until the bread is crisp and the cheese melted and oozing just a bit.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.