Ingredients:

  • 4 slices of thick-cut bread (e.g., sourdough or rustic loaf) (about 1 inch thick)
  • 8 oz (225 g) Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices of bacon
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (e.g., chives or parsley), for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake bacon until crispy, about 15-20 minutes. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add bread slices and toast until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  3. Lay toasted bread on the baking sheet. Evenly distribute crumbled bacon over each slice of bread. Generously sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese on top.
  4. Place assembled sandwiches under the broiler. Broil for 2-4 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  5. Remove from oven, season with freshly cracked black pepper and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.