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.
I have been making these sandwiches for lunch on busy days and my family absolutely loves them.
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 to 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 to 5 minutes per side, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7:
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Pin It This recipe always brings my family together around the table for a warm, satisfying meal.
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 air fryer grilled cheese is perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, delivering rich flavors with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prepare the broccoli filling?
Sauté finely chopped broccoli with minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper until bright green and tender, then combine with cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar.
- → What bread types work best for this sandwich?
Sourdough or whole grain bread slices are ideal, as they hold the filling well and crisp nicely in the air fryer.
- → Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, you can use Gruyère or mozzarella for different flavor profiles while maintaining creaminess.
- → How long should I air fry the sandwiches?
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- → Any tips for extra flavor in the filling?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Dijon mustard to the broccoli mixture for a subtle kick.