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.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite when I discovered how effortlessly the air fryer made the sandwiches perfectly crispy while keeping the filling warm and melty.
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 the 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 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 to 5 minutes per side, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Save This sandwich always brings smiles to my family’s faces, especially on busy weeknights when we want something wholesome yet quick.
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 Enjoy this easy recipe that turns a simple grilled cheese into something special with little effort.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I prepare the broccoli filling?
Finely chop broccoli florets and sauté with butter and minced garlic until just tender. Then combine with cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar for a creamy filling.
- → Can I substitute the bread used in this sandwich?
Yes, sourdough or whole grain bread work well, but feel free to use your preferred sturdy bread to hold the filling and get a nice crisp.
- → What temperature is used for air frying?
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air fry the sandwiches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- → Are there variations for the cheese blend?
Yes, swap sharp cheddar for Gruyère or mozzarella to create different flavor profiles while maintaining the melty texture.
- → What additional seasonings can enhance the filling?
For extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Dijon mustard to the broccoli-cheese mixture.