Save 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 favorite comfort food in our home.
Ingredients
- For the Filling: 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened, 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- For the Sandwich: 4 slices sourdough or whole grain bread, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or softened butter for spreading
Instructions
- Preheat:
- 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 4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and just tender. Season with salt and 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 (work in batches if needed). Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 4 5 minutes per side, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Save This recipe brings back memories of cozy family dinners where everyone eagerly awaited their turn to enjoy the melty goodness.
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.
Save This grilled cheese recipe makes a perfect quick lunch or snack that the whole family will love.
Cooking Questions
- → How do I keep the bread crispy in the air fryer?
Brush the outside of the bread with butter or mayonnaise before air frying. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust while keeping the interior soft.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of cheddar?
Yes, Gruyère or mozzarella are great alternatives and offer different flavor profiles while still melting well.
- → What is the best way to prepare the broccoli filling?
Sauté finely chopped broccoli with garlic and butter until just tender and bright green, then mix it with cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a creamy, flavorful filling.
- → How long should I air fry the sandwiches?
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping halfway, until the sandwiches are golden and crispy.
- → Can I add extra seasoning to the filling?
Absolutely, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Dijon mustard can add a nice depth of flavor to the filling.