Name: Roasted Broccoli Red Pepper Grilled Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Roasted Vegetables:; 1 lb broccoli; 1 red bell pepper; 1 yellow onion; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; ¼ tsp salt; 1 pinch red pepper flakes; black pepper; For; 8 slices whole grain bread; 8 oz Cheddar Cheese; 2 tsp dijon mustard; 1 tbsp butter

Delight your taste buds with the enticing flavors of roasted broccoli and red peppers combined with the gooey richness of grilled cheese. This recipe takes the classic grilled cheese sandwich to another level with the additional crunch and depth of flavor brought by the roasted vegetables. It's a simple yet gourmet take on a beloved comfort food, perfect for a casual brunch or a cozy dinner at home.

balsamic roasted broccoli and red pepper grilled cheese recipe

Photos of Roasted Broccoli Red Pepper Grilled Cheese Recipe

Most ingredients in this recipe are fairly common and should be readily available in your pantry. However, if you don't usually stock whole grain bread or dijon mustard, make sure to add them to your shopping list. Also, keep an eye out for a good quality cheddar cheese, as it's the star of our grilled cheese sandwich. For the veggies, pick fresh broccoli and a vibrant, firm red bell pepper for the best roasting results.

Ingredients for Roasted Broccoli and Red Pepper Grilled Cheese

Broccoli: A powerhouse of nutrients, roasted till it gets a nice char and brings out a wonderful smoky flavor.

Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet and slightly smoky flavor when roasted, complementing the broccoli perfectly.

Yellow onion: Brings a depth of flavor, becoming sweeter as it roasts.

Olive oil: Helps in roasting the veggies to perfection and adds a subtle fruity flavor.

Balsamic vinegar: Enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables and adds a tangy touch.

Whole grain bread: A healthier option, adding a delightful crunch to your sandwich.

Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully, binding the veggies and bread together with its creamy, tangy taste.

Dijon mustard: Gives a slight tanginess that cuts through the richness of the cheese.

One reader, Kikelia Muir says:

This roasted broccoli and red pepper grilled cheese recipe is a game-changer! The combination of caramelized veggies and gooey cheese is simply divine. The flavors are so rich and satisfying. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilled cheese game.

Kikelia Muir

Techniques Required for Making the Perfect Grilled Cheese

How to roast the vegetables: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Prepare the vegetables by slicing the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, slicing the red bell pepper into thin strips, and halving and slicing the onion into thin strips. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Roast the vegetables on a baking sheet until tender and caramelized, about 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.

How to assemble the sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on one slice of bread. Top with shredded cheese and roasted vegetables, then add more cheese and place another slice of bread on top. Repeat for the remaining sandwiches.

How to grill the sandwiches: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a pat of butter. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bottom is golden and the cheese is melted. Flip the sandwiches and cook until the other side is golden and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.

How To Make Roasted Broccoli Red Pepper Grilled Cheese

Don’t write this off as just your regular piece of sandwich. This decadent red pepper grilled cheese sandwich is the heightened version of the classic meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Roasted Vegetables:

1 lbbroccoli(or 8 oz broccoli florets)
1red bell pepper
1yellow onionsmall
2tbspolive oil
2tbspbalsamic vinegar
¼tspsalt
1pinchred pepper flakes(optional)
black pepperfreshly ground, to taste

For

8sliceswhole grain bread(preferably sourdough)
8ozcheddar cheeseshredded
2tspDijon mustard
1tbspbutter

Instructions

Roasted Vegetables:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Prepare your veggies, keeping in mind slice the vegetables roughly the same size for even cooking.
Remove the florets from the broccoli stems and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
Slice the bell pepper into thin strips. Halve the onion and slice it into thin strips as well.
Transfer the prepared veggies to a large, rimmed baking sheet.
Drizzle on the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Add the salt and toss until all of the ingredients are evenly combined.
Arrange the veggies in a single layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle lightly with red pepper flakes and a few twists’ worth of freshly ground black pepper. Bake until the veggies are tender and deeply caramelized, about 20 minutes, tossing halfway.

Sandwiches:

Spread a very thin layer of Dijon mustard on one slice of bread.
Top the mustard with a heavy sprinkling of shredded cheese, then as much roasted vegetables as you can reasonably fit on top.
Top with more cheese and place another piece of bread on top. Repeat for the remaining three sandwiches.
Heat a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add a generous pat of butter.
Let the butter melt and swirl it around. Carefully place one sandwich on one side of the pan, then another sandwich on the other side. Cover the pan with a lid or a baking pan to encourage the cheese to melt.
Let the sandwich cook until the bottom side is golden and the cheese is mostly melted. Use a spatula to life one sandwich out of the pan at a time. Add a little more butter to the pan and let it melt.
Carefully flip the sandwiches over and place them back in the pan to cook the other sides until they’re nice and golden.
Once the cheese is melted through and both sides are golden, transfer the sandwiches to serving plates. Repeat with remaining sandwiches.

Nutrition

Calories: 660.57kcal
Fat: 33.24g
Saturated Fat: 14.48g
Trans Fat: 0.79g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.97g
Carbohydrates: 63.84g
Fiber: 17.90g
Sugar: 15.44g
Protein: 35.28g
Cholesterol: 65.47mg
Sodium: 917.01mg
Calcium: 679.15mg
Potassium: 1759.98mg
Iron: 5.39mg
Vitamin A: 361.53µg
Vitamin C: 444.98mg

Crucial Technique for Achieving the Ideal Grilled Cheese Texture

When roasting vegetables, it's important to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster than larger ones, so if your vegetables are cut unevenly, some may be overcooked while others are still raw. Additionally, tossing your vegetables in olive oil and balsamic vinegar before roasting will help them caramelize and develop a deep, rich flavor. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables. Lastly, remember to toss the vegetables halfway through the cooking time to ensure they roast evenly on all sides.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Roasted Broccoli and Red Pepper Grilled Cheese

Prep ahead: Chop and store the vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to skip the time-consuming step of grating the cheese yourself.

Multi-task: While the vegetables are roasting in the oven, start assembling the sandwiches to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, high-quality knife can make chopping and prepping the vegetables quicker and more efficient.

One-pan cooking: Consider using a large, rimmed baking sheet to roast the vegetables and a skillet to grill the sandwiches, minimizing the number of dishes to clean up afterward.

Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Broccoli Red Pepper Grilled Cheese Recipe

broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can be used as a substitute for broccoli in this recipe as it has a similar texture and can also be roasted to bring out a nutty flavor.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers as they have a similar sweet flavor and will add a pop of color to the dish.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with gouda cheese: Gouda cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar as it melts well and has a rich, nutty flavor that complements the roasted vegetables.
whole grain bread - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough bread can be used as a substitute for whole grain bread to add a tangy flavor and a chewy texture to the grilled cheese sandwich.

Presenting Your Roasted Broccoli and Red Pepper Grilled Cheese

Elevate the grilled cheese: Instead of serving the grilled cheese in its traditional form, consider cutting it into smaller, bite-sized pieces and arranging them on a platter. This will make the dish more visually appealing and encourage guests to try a variety of flavors in each bite.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of sophistication to the dish by garnishing the platter with freshly chopped parsley or chives. The vibrant green colors will contrast beautifully with the golden brown sandwiches and add a pop of freshness to the presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Consider serving the grilled cheese alongside a vibrant mixed greens salad or a colorful tomato and basil soup. The contrasting colors will make the dish visually striking and add a sense of balance to the overall presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Opt for sleek, modern serving plates or boards to showcase the grilled cheese. The use of high-quality, visually appealing serving ware can elevate the perceived value of the dish and create a memorable dining experience for the guests.
Artful arrangement of components: Pay attention to the placement of the roasted vegetables on the grilled cheese. Consider arranging them in a visually appealing manner, such as layering the vegetables in an artful, cascading style to create an eye-catching presentation.
Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction: Before serving, delicately drizzle a small amount of balsamic reduction on the plate in an artistic manner. The rich, dark drizzle will not only enhance the flavors but also add a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.
Consider serving on individual plates: For a more refined presentation, consider serving each grilled cheese on its own individual plate, allowing for a more personalized and elegant dining experience for the guests.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Grilled Cheese

Oven: Used for roasting the vegetables and toasting the sandwiches.
Baking sheet: Used to hold and cook the roasted vegetables in the oven.
Skillet: Used to grill the sandwiches on the stovetop.
Spatula: Used for flipping and removing the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet.
Knife: Used for cutting the broccoli, red pepper, and onion into bite-sized pieces.
Cutting board: Used as a surface for cutting the vegetables.
Mixing bowl: Used for tossing the vegetables with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings.
Grater: Used for grating the cheddar cheese.
Measuring spoons: Used for accurately measuring the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and other seasonings.
Lid or baking pan: Used to cover the skillet while grilling the sandwiches to help melt the cheese.

Storing and Freezing Your Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

To store leftover roasted broccoli and red pepper grilled cheese sandwiches, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For best results when reheating, unwrap the sandwiches and place them on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crispy.
To freeze the sandwiches, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, and label with the date. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat the frozen sandwiches, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat in the oven or skillet as mentioned above until heated through and the bread is crispy.
If you have leftover roasted vegetables, store them separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. These can be used in salads, pasta dishes, or as toppings for future sandwiches.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

To reheat leftover roasted broccoli and red pepper grilled cheese, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will help to warm the sandwich through without burning the bread or making it too crispy.
Place the leftover sandwich on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will help to prevent the sandwich from sticking to the pan and make cleanup easier.
If you want to add a little extra crunch to the bread, you can brush a thin layer of butter or olive oil on the outside of the sandwich before placing it in the oven.
Bake the sandwich in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through. Keep an eye on the sandwich to make sure it doesn't burn or become too crispy.
Alternatively, you can reheat the sandwich in a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sandwich on the wire rack. Toast for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the sandwich in the microwave. Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for about 30-60 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the sandwich, as this can make the bread soggy.
Once the sandwich is heated through, let it cool for a minute or two before serving. This will allow the cheese to set and prevent burns from the hot filling.
If you find that the roasted vegetables have lost some of their crispness after reheating, you can try placing the sandwich under the broiler for a minute or two to crisp them up again. Just be sure to watch the sandwich closely to prevent burning.

Interesting Trivia About Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

The roasted broccoli and red pepper grilled cheese recipe is a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Broccoli is a great source of vitamins K and C, while red bell peppers are packed with antioxidants like vitamin A and C. This recipe provides a tasty and nutritious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.

Is Making Roasted Broccoli and Red Pepper Grilled Cheese Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this roasted broccoli and red pepper grilled cheese recipe is quite high. Broccoli and red peppers are affordable, and the other ingredients are commonly found in households. The recipe provides a nutritious and satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15. The combination of roasted vegetables and cheddar cheese in a grilled sandwich offers a delightful flavor and texture experience. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is This Grilled Cheese Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The roasted broccoli and red pepper grilled cheese recipe is a healthier twist on the classic comfort food. The inclusion of nutrient-dense vegetables like broccoli, red bell pepper, and onion boosts the nutritional value of the sandwich. Roasting the vegetables enhances their natural flavors and sweetness while reducing the need for excessive seasoning. The use of whole grain bread provides additional fiber and nutrients compared to refined white bread.

However, the recipe still contains a significant amount of cheese, which is high in saturated fat and sodium. While cheese can be part of a balanced diet, excessive consumption may contribute to health issues like high cholesterol and hypertension. Additionally, the use of butter for grilling the sandwiches adds extra saturated fat to the dish.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cheese used in each sandwich or opt for a lower-fat cheese variety like part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar
Instead of butter, use a healthier cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, for grilling the sandwiches
Experiment with adding other nutrient-dense vegetables to the roasted vegetable mix, such as zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms, to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals in the dish
Serve the grilled cheese sandwiches with a side salad or a bowl of vegetable soup to create a more balanced and satisfying meal

Editor's Opinion on This Unique Grilled Cheese Recipe

The combination of roasted broccoli and red pepper in a grilled cheese sandwich is a brilliant twist on a classic comfort food. The roasted vegetables add a depth of flavor and texture that elevates the sandwich to a whole new level. The use of whole grain bread and cheddar cheese provides a wholesome and rich base for the vegetables to shine. The addition of dijon mustard brings a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness of the roasted peppers. Overall, this recipe is a delightful and satisfying take on a grilled cheese sandwich, perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.

Enhance Your Roasted Broccoli Red Pepper Grilled Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey and infused with aromatic thyme for a delightful side dish.

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection and dusted with a hint of warm cinnamon for a sweet and tangy accompaniment.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Grilled Cheese

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a filling mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings to stuff into halved bell peppers, then bake until tender and delicious.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Simmer broccoli florets in a creamy, cheesy broth until tender, then blend until smooth for a comforting and hearty soup.

Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers: Marinate chunks of chicken and colorful vegetables in a zesty marinade, then thread onto skewers and grill for a flavorful and healthy meal.

Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: Toss together a variety of fresh fruits and drizzle with a sweet and tangy honey-lime dressing for a refreshing and vibrant side dish or dessert.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Bake individual chocolate cakes until the edges are set but the center is still gooey, then serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent and indulgent dessert.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Roasted Broccoli and Red Pepper Grilled Cheese

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. It's a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Roasted Broccoli Red Pepper Grilled Cheese Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of roasted vegetables and gooey cheddar cheese, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. The broccoli, red bell pepper, and onion are roasted to caramelized perfection, enhancing their natural sweetness. The addition of balsamic vinegar and dijon mustard adds depth and complexity to the dish. With the use of whole grain bread, this recipe provides a wholesome and nutritious twist on the classic grilled cheese. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and the chef's expertise to deliver a truly delectable experience.

Want to share your own twist on this Roasted Broccoli Red Pepper Grilled Cheese Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Gouda, Swiss, or provolone would all work well with the roasted vegetables in this grilled cheese.

Can I make the roasted vegetables ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the roasted vegetables in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to make the grilled cheese, simply reheat the vegetables in the oven or on the stovetop before assembling the sandwiches.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Of course! While the recipe calls for whole grain bread, you can use any bread of your choice. Sourdough, multigrain, or even a hearty white bread would all be delicious options for this grilled cheese.

Can I omit the balsamic vinegar from the roasted vegetables?

Yes, if you prefer not to use balsamic vinegar, you can omit it from the roasted vegetables. You can simply increase the amount of olive oil or add a splash of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.

Can I add meat to this grilled cheese?

Absolutely! If you'd like to add some protein, you can include thinly sliced grilled chicken, turkey, or even crispy bacon to make it a heartier sandwich. Simply layer the meat with the roasted vegetables and cheese before grilling the sandwich.