The Ultimate Hawaiian Grilled Cheese

Start with the pineapple. Peel and core the half pineapple (you can usually find peeled, cored pineapple at the market to make things easier). Cut the pineapple into planks that are about ½ inch thick. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the pineapple and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until sexy grill marks appear and the fruit is lightly caramelized. Remove from grill and briefly set aside.

Now it’s time to assemble the grilled cheese. Butter one side of each piece of bread with ½ tablespoon of softened butter each. Place the bread butter-side down on a cutting board. Top two pieces of bread with about ¼ cup cheese. Add a layer of prosciutto and sprinkle the top of that with another 2 tablespoons of cheese. Add half of the grilled pineapple to each and sprinkle with another 2 tablespoons of cheese. Split the basil between the two sandwiches. Go ahead and put another layer of prosciutto on that bad boy and top it with the remaining cheese. Top with the second piece of bread with the buttered side facing out (duh).

Heat a large non-stick pan or skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the sandwiches and cover with a lid. Cook for about 4 minutes until the underside is golden brown. Flip the sandwiches and cook for 3-4 minutes more. Remove your epic grilled cheese from the pan and serve immediately with tomato sauce for dipping.