Pin It 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.
This recipe quickly became a favorite at home, especially for busy weeknights when we want something comforting yet simple.
Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets: finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: for sautéing
- 1 garlic clove: minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: to taste
- 1/4 cup cream cheese: softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese: shredded
- 4 slices sourdough or whole grain bread:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or softened butter: 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 black pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed broccoli with cream cheese and shredded cheddar until well combined.
- Prepare Bread:
- Lay out the bread slices. 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 the remaining bread, buttered side out, to form sandwiches.
- Air Fry:
- Place sandwiches in the 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.
Pin It My family loves gathering around for this cheesy treat, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food feels just right.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Dijon mustard to the filling. Swap cheddar for Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheese profile. Pairs well with tomato soup or a crisp green salad.
Required Tools
Air fryer, skillet, mixing bowl, knife and cutting board, spatula.
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread), Milk (cheese butter cream cheese), Eggs (mayonnaise if used). Double-check bread and mayonnaise labels for additional allergens if needed.
Pin It This quick sandwich is perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner when time is short but flavor matters.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you prepare the broccoli filling?
Sauté finely chopped broccoli with butter and garlic until tender and vibrant, then mix with cream cheese and shredded cheddar to create a creamy filling.
- → What bread types work best?
Sourdough or whole grain bread are ideal for their sturdy texture and ability to crisp nicely in the air fryer.
- → Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, Gruyère or mozzarella can be substituted for cheddar to create different flavor profiles.
- → What temperature is best for air frying?
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook sandwiches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Dijon mustard into the broccoli mixture for a flavorful kick.
- → What are good side dishes?
Serve with tomato soup or a crisp green salad to complement the richness of the grilled cheese.