Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses: , , ,
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 180  C
Servings: 2
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Description

This Caramelized Onion & Brie Sourdough Panini is a gourmet sandwich packed with deep, savory flavor from slowly caramelized onions and rich, creamy Brie cheese, all pressed between slices of crusty sourdough. Perfect for a cozy lunch or a quick yet elevated dinner, this panini is crispy, melty, and full of comforting warmth.

Ingredients
    For the Caramelized Onions:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, helps with caramelization)
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
    • For the Panini:
  • 4 slices sourdough bread (thick-cut, artisan style)
  • 150 g Brie cheese, rind on, sliced
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, adds tang)
  • 1 tbsp butter (for toasting, softened)
  • Handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach (optional)
Instructions
    Caramelize the Onions
  1. 1
    Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and salt. Cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden brown. Add sugar midway if needed, and finish with balsamic vinegar. Set aside.
    2. Prep the Bread
  2. 2
    Spread a light layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice. Flip and spread Dijon mustard (if using) on the opposite side.
    3. Assemble the Sandwich
  3. 3
    On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer Brie cheese, a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, and greens if desired. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out.
    4. Cook the Panini
  4. 4
    Preheat a panini press to 180°C or heat a skillet over medium heat. Grill each sandwich for 4–5 minutes in the press or 3–4 minutes per side in a skillet (press down with a spatula or another pan), until bread is crisp and cheese is melty.
    5. Rest and Serve
  5. 5
    Let the panini rest for 2–3 minutes before slicing to avoid the cheese spilling out. Serve warm and enjoy!
Note

Storage: Caramelized onions can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Make it your own: Swap Brie for Camembert or goat cheese. Add cooked bacon or turkey for a heartier version.

Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written.

Serving Suggestion: Pair with a cup of tomato soup or a crisp apple salad.

Keywords: easy panini recipe, gourmet sandwich, caramelized onion, Brie cheese, sourdough sandwich
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/caramelized-onion-brie-sourdough-panini-recipe/