Pin 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 made this recipe to enjoy a healthier twist on grilled cheese and was amazed at how perfectly the air fryer worked to make the bread crisp and the filling warm and melty.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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 Filling:
- 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 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 Sandwiches:
- 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 This grilled cheese has become a family favorite that we love sharing on cozy weekend lunches.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Dijon mustard to the filling. 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 This easy air fryer sandwich is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for a quick meal.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I prepare the broccoli for the filling?
Chop broccoli finely and sauté with garlic and butter until bright green and slightly tender before mixing with cheeses.
- → What bread types work best for this dish?
Sourdough or whole grain bread are recommended for their texture and flavor, but any sturdy bread can be used.
- → Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, Gruyère or mozzarella can be swapped in for a different cheese profile to suit your taste.
- → How long should I cook the sandwiches in the air fryer?
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- → Are there any seasoning suggestions to enhance flavor?
Adding red pepper flakes or a dash of Dijon mustard to the filling enhances the flavor with subtle heat and tang.