What is bacon jam made of?

Bacon jam is a savory-sweet spread made by slow-cooking bacon, onions, brown sugar, vinegar, and sometimes coffee or spices. The result is a rich, spoonable condiment that adds umami and a touch of sweetness—perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches.

How long does bacon jam last?

Homemade bacon jam will keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight jar. Always use a clean spoon, and never leave bacon jam at room temperature for long periods.

What cheese goes best with bacon jam?

Sharp cheddar, gruyère, mozzarella, fontina, and havarti all work wonderfully in bacon jam grilled cheese. Combining two or more cheeses creates a gooey, flavorful experience that balances the richness of bacon jam.

Can I make bacon jam grilled cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble bacon jam grilled cheese sandwiches and store them in the fridge, ungrilled, for up to 24 hours. Grill when ready to eat, or freeze assembled (but ungrilled) sandwiches for future meals.

What’s the best bread for bacon jam grilled cheese?

Sourdough is a top choice, but brioche, artisan white, whole wheat, and even gluten-free breads all work well. Choose bread with enough structure to hold up to melty cheese and bacon jam.

Bacon Jam Grilled Cheese: Crispy, and Packed with Flavor

Description

This bacon jam grilled cheese is the ultimate comfort food upgrade. Sweet, smoky bacon jam melts into layers of gooey cheese between slices of golden, buttery bread. Whether you’re cooking for lunch, dinner, or a cozy weekend brunch, this elevated grilled cheese is guaranteed to impress

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sandwich:

2 slices sourdough or brioche bread
2–3 tablespoons bacon jam (homemade or store-bought)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup shredded gruyère or mozzarella (optional for blend)
1 tablespoon butter, softened

Optional Add-ins:

Sliced tomato
Fried egg
Arugula or spinach
Caramelized onions
Jalapeño slices

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
Butter one side of each bread slice. Lay the slices butter-side down on your work surface.
Spread bacon jam on the unbuttered side of one slice.
Top with shredded cheese, and any optional add-ins.
Place the second slice of bread on top, butter-side facing out.
Grill in the skillet for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before slicing.
Serve hot with your favorite sides like tomato soup, pickles, or a crisp salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Sandwich, Lunch, Comfort Food
Method: Grilled, Stovetop, Air Fryer Option
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: ~620 kcal
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 39g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 85mg