Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Grilled Cheese (Print-Friendly)

Crispy toasted sandwiches filled with melted sharp cheddar and caramelized roasted broccoli florets.

# 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 (sourdough or whole wheat)

→ Other

07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# Cooking Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F.
02 - Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 12–15 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
03 - Grate the cheddar cheese while broccoli roasts.
04 - Butter one side of each bread slice.
05 - Place two bread slices buttered side down on work surface. Top each with half the cheddar, an even layer of roasted broccoli, then remaining cheddar. Place remaining bread slices on top, buttered side up.
06 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
07 - Place sandwiches in skillet and cook for 3–4 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 Tips:

01 -
  • The roasting transforms broccoli into something sweet and nutty that actually belongs on a sandwich
  • Crispy bread with sharp cheddar and tender vegetables creates this perfect texture situation
02 -
  • Medium-low heat is crucial because you want the cheese to melt before the bread burns
  • Cutting broccoli into smaller pieces means more surface area for roasting and better distribution in each bite
03 -
  • Let the sandwiches rest for a minute after cooking so the cheese sets slightly and doesn't ooze out when you slice them
  • A cast iron skillet gives the best golden crust, but any heavy pan will work
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