Sweet summer peaches meet creamy ricotta, sharp white cheddar, and golden buttery bread for a grilled sandwich that’s both decadent and refreshing.
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Dietary Badges: Vegetarian (without bacon)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
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Peaches, peeled and sliced (2)
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Sourdough bread slices (4) — challah, multigrain, or thick white bread also work
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Ricotta cheese (2–4 tbsp, optional)
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Honey (1 tbsp)
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White cheddar cheese slices (4)
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Butter (2 tbsp)
Optional Ingredients
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Crispy bacon slices (4)
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Fresh basil leaves
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Balsamic glaze drizzle
Instructions
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Prep Peaches: Peel and slice peaches; set aside.
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Assemble Base: Spread ricotta on one side of each bread slice. On two slices, layer peach slices and drizzle with honey. On the other two slices, place white cheddar cheese.
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Butter Bread: Spread butter on the outer side of each slice of bread.
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Grill Sandwich: Heat a panini press or skillet over medium-low. Cook sandwiches until cheese is melted and bread is golden (reduce to low if browning too fast).
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Optional Add-Ons: If desired, lift top bread slice and add bacon, basil, or balsamic glaze before serving.
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Serve: Enjoy immediately while the bread is crisp and cheese is perfectly melted.
Notes:
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White cheddar provides a sharp contrast to the sweet peaches, but brie or Havarti make a creamier alternative.
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Ricotta adds creaminess but can be omitted for a sharper flavor profile.
Brief Introduction
This honey peach white cheddar sandwich strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and buttery crisp. It’s a quick gourmet lunch or light dinner option, especially when peaches are at their juiciest.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Layering the Flavors
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Cheese & Fruit Harmony: Ricotta and cheddar create a creamy-sharp combo that pairs beautifully with ripe peaches.
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Sweet Drizzle: Honey enhances peach sweetness and caramelizes slightly during cooking.
Grilling to Perfection
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Gentle Heat: Medium-low ensures the cheese melts before bread over-browns.
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Final Flourish: Add bacon for smokiness, basil for freshness, or balsamic glaze for tangy depth.
Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips
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Bread: Sourdough gives tang; challah is softer and sweeter; multigrain adds nuttiness.
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Cheese: White cheddar for sharpness, brie for creaminess, or fontina for mild melt.
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Peaches: Fresh and ripe are ideal, but grilled peaches add a smoky twist.
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Sweetener: Maple syrup or agave can replace honey.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
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Caprese-Inspired: Add tomato slices and mozzarella instead of cheddar.
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Savory Spin: Swap peaches for grilled pears and add prosciutto.
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Brunch Style: Serve with a fried egg on top.
Storage & Make-Ahead Information
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Best Served Fresh: This sandwich is at peak flavor and texture right after cooking.
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Short-Term Hold: Keep warm in a 90°C (200°F) oven for up to 15 minutes.
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Make-Ahead Elements: Slice peaches and prepare add-ons ahead; assemble and grill when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, without optional ingredients)
Calories: ~420 kcal | Carbs: 38g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 22g | Sodium: 550mg | Sugar: 13g
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned peaches?
A: Yes, but drain and pat dry to avoid soggy bread.
Q: How do I make it less sweet?
A: Reduce or skip the honey, and use extra-sharp cheddar.
Q: Can I grill it without a panini press?
A: Absolutely — just use a skillet and press down with a spatula for even browning.
Personal Story
This sandwich was born during peach season when I had more ripe fruit than I could eat fresh. Pairing it with tangy white cheddar and golden buttery bread turned a simple lunch into a café-worthy treat.
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