Caramelized Onion and BBQ Panini

As the weather gets cooler, I am on the hunt for more warm foods.  One of my favorite cold-weather meals is a panini.  It is simple, quick, and always satisfying.  This little experiment turned out to be a big winner!  Caramelized red onion, cheddar, and my favorite BBQ sauce come together in one big bite after another.  I even spiced mine up with some crushed red pepper flakes to take it to the next level.  YUM!

Ingredients

Crusty bread (I use a french miche)

1 large red onion, sliced

butter

cheddar cheese (and/or pepper jack cheese)

your favorite BBQ sauce

Directions

1. Heat 1 Tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat.  Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly browned and sweet, about 15 minutes.  Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Heat your panini press to medium high.  Butter the outside of the bottom piece of bread.  Spread an even layer of BBQ sauce on the inside of the same piece.  Top with a layer of cheese.  Add a layer of caramelized onion.  Top with a little more cheese.  Spread an even layer of BBQ sauce on the inside of the top piece of bread.  Butter the outside of the top piece.
3. Place the sandwich in the panini press and cook until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.  Let stand about a minute before serving.  Enjoy!

Adapted from Ring Finger Tan Line