Roasted Broccoli & Cheddar Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Comforting grilled cheese with roasted broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese melted between crispy, golden toasted bread.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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

# How to Prepare:

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 sharp cheddar cheese.
04 - Butter one side of each bread slice evenly.
05 - Once broccoli is roasted, place two bread slices buttered side down on a work surface. Layer half of the cheddar cheese on each slice, then distribute roasted broccoli evenly, and top with remaining cheddar. Place remaining bread slices on top with 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 fully melted.
08 - Remove from skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice diagonally and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The roasted broccoli brings this incredible savory depth that cuts through all that rich cheese, so every bite feels balanced instead of overwhelming
  • It transforms a childhood classic into something that feels substantial enough for dinner but still delivers that pure comfort food nostalgia
02 -
  • Low and steady heat is absolutely non negotiable here, because high heat will burn the bread before the cheese has time to melt into that perfect liquid state
  • Letting the sandwiches rest for just one minute after cooking feels like forever but actually helps the cheese set slightly so it does not all ooze out the moment you cut into them
03 -
  • Grate your cheese from the block instead of buying pre shredded, that anti caking coating keeps it from melting into the smooth, cohesive layer you want
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting broccoli, those florets need space to get properly golden and caramelized instead of steaming in their own moisture
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