Save to Pinterest Crispy, golden grilled cheese sandwiches stuffed with creamy broccoli and sharp cheddar, made quick and easy in the air fryer—a comforting twist on a classic favorite.
I first served this to my family on a chilly evening and it quickly became a requested meal for weeks.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: 1 cup, finely chopped
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic clove: 1, minced
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Cream cheese: 1/4 cup, softened
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Bread: 4 slices sourdough or whole grain
- Mayonnaise or softened butter: 2 tablespoons for spreading
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Sauté Broccoli:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and broccoli. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and just tender. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed broccoli with cream cheese and shredded cheddar until well combined.
- Prepare Bread:
- Lay out bread slices and spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or butter on one side of each slice.
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- Divide the broccoli-cheddar mixture evenly between two slices of bread on the unbuttered side. Top with remaining bread, buttered side out, to form sandwiches.
- Air Fry:
- Place sandwiches in air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 4 to 5 minutes per side, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Save to Pinterest My kids love gathering around to help assemble these sandwiches and enjoy them fresh from the air fryer.
Tips for Perfect Sandwiches
Make sure to not overfill the sandwiches to prevent spills during cooking.
Variations
Swap cheddar for Gruyère or mozzarella to change the cheese flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs wonderfully with tomato soup or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is a quick, delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist.
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute cheddar with other cheeses?
Yes, Gruyère or mozzarella are great alternatives that melt well and offer different flavor profiles.
- → How do I ensure broccoli is tender but not mushy?
Sauté broccoli for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender, then remove from heat to avoid overcooking.
- → Is it necessary to use mayonnaise on the bread?
Mayonnaise adds moisture and helps achieve a golden crust, but softened butter can be used as an alternative.
- → Can this sandwich be made without an air fryer?
Yes, it can be cooked in a skillet over medium heat, flipping until both sides are golden and the filling is heated through.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Tomato soup or a crisp green salad complement the savory and creamy flavors nicely.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the filling?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Dijon mustard for a subtle spicy or tangy kick.