Roasted Broccoli & Cheddar Grilled Cheese (Printable version)

Roasted broccoli florets and sharp cheddar melted between crispy golden bread. A vegetarian comfort meal ready in 35 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 cup broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - Pinch of salt
04 - Pinch of black pepper

→ Cheese

05 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

→ Bread

06 - 4 slices hearty sandwich bread, such as sourdough or whole wheat

→ Other

07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 425°F.
02 - Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 12 to 15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
03 - While the broccoli roasts, grate the cheddar cheese.
04 - Butter one side of each bread slice with softened butter.
05 - 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.
06 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
07 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
08 - Remove from skillet, let rest 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The roasted broccoli adds a nutty sweetness that cuts through the rich cheddar
  • Everything comes together in under 35 minutes for a satisfying weeknight dinner
02 -
  • Low and slow heat prevents burning the bread before the cheese melts
  • Grating your own cheese makes a huge difference compared to pre-shredded bags
03 -
  • Use a spatula to press the sandwich gently while cooking for even contact with the pan
  • If your skillet is small, cook sandwiches one at a time and keep the first warm in a 200°F oven
Return