Save Crispy, golden grilled cheese sandwiches stuffed with creamy broccoli and sharp cheddar, made quick and easy in the air fryer &mdash a comforting twist on a classic favorite.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite since it combines the ease of the air fryer with a flavorful twist on grilled cheese sandwiches.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Step 2:
- 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
- Step 3:
- In a bowl mix the sautéed broccoli with cream cheese and shredded cheddar until well combined
- Step 4:
- Lay out the bread slices Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or butter on one side of each slice
- Step 5:
- 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
- Step 6:
- 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
- Step 7:
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving
Save My kids love grabbing these warm sandwiches after school, making it a perfect quick snack or lunch option for busy days.
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 recipe delivers a delightful and simple meal with minimal cleanup, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Recipe Q&A Section
- → How do I make the broccoli filling tender but not mushy?
Sauté broccoli just until bright green and slightly tender, about 3-4 minutes. This keeps some texture while softening it enough to blend well with cheese.
- → Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar?
Yes, Gruyère or mozzarella work well for different flavor profiles and still melt nicely in the filling.
- → What bread types are best for this sandwich?
Sourdough or whole grain breads hold up well, providing structure and a pleasant crust when air fried.
- → Is it necessary to butter or mayo the bread?
Spreading butter or mayonnaise on the outer bread slices helps achieve a golden, crispy crust during air frying.
- → Can I add spices to the filling?
Absolutely, adding red pepper flakes or Dijon mustard adds a nice kick and depth of flavor to the broccoli-cheese mixture.