Roasted Broccoli & Cheddar Grilled Cheese

A comforting twist on a classic grilled cheese, featuring roasted broccoli florets and sharp cheddar, all melted between crispy, golden toasted bread. This recipe elevates the standard sandwich into a wholesome, flavorful meal that is perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner.

Pinterest

Roasting the broccoli before assembling the sandwich is the secret to this recipe's success. It ensures the florets are tender and slightly sweet, preventing them from being too crunchy inside the melted cheese. Paired with a hearty sourdough or whole wheat bread, every bite offers a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1 cup (about 100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 slices hearty sandwich bread (e.g., sourdough or whole wheat)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2

Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 12–15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 3

While the broccoli roasts, grate the cheddar cheese.

Step 4

Butter one side of each bread slice.

Step 5

Once broccoli is roasted, assemble the sandwiches: Place two bread slices, buttered side down, on a work surface. Top each with half of the cheddar, then an even layer of roasted broccoli, and then the remaining cheddar. Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side up.

Step 6

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.

Step 7

Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 8

Remove from skillet, let rest 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, use a block of sharp cheddar and grate it yourself; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting as smoothly. Additionally, ensure the broccoli is cut into very small pieces so it distributes evenly within the sandwich layers.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this recipe by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a thin layer of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick. To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the sourdough for your favorite gluten-free sandwich bread.

Serviervorschläge

This Roasted Broccoli & Cheddar Grilled Cheese pairs beautifully with a warm bowl of tomato soup for dipping. Alternatively, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sharp cheddar.

Pinterest

Enjoy this delicious and simple twist on a classic grilled cheese. With its gooey center and perfectly toasted exterior, it is sure to become a new favorite in your rotation.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare the broccoli ahead of time?

Yes, roast the broccoli up to 2 hours in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat gently before assembling your sandwich.

→ What bread works best for this sandwich?

Hearty breads like sourdough, whole wheat, or brioche work wonderfully. They hold up well to the filling and toast to a perfect golden brown.

→ How do I prevent the bread from burning while cheese melts?

Cook over medium-low heat and press gently with a spatula. This allows even melting without over-browning. Cover the skillet briefly if needed to trap steam.

→ Can I make this with different cheeses?

Absolutely. Gruyère, aged gouda, or a sharp cheddar blend all pair beautifully with roasted broccoli and provide excellent melting properties.

→ What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Tomato soup is a classic pairing, but a crisp green salad, roasted tomatoes, or pickled vegetables also complement the rich, savory flavors nicely.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

The roasted broccoli and grated cheese can be prepped separately for up to 2 days. Assemble and cook fresh for the best texture and melting quality.