If you love the comforting flavors of cheddar broccoli soup, you’re going to fall in love with this Cheddar Broccoli Grilled Cheese. It takes the rich, cheesy goodness of the classic soup and transforms it into a hearty sandwich. With sharp cheddar, tender broccoli, and a chive-infused butter for extra flavor, this grilled cheese is a deliciously satisfying twist. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, it brings together everything you love about the soup—but in sandwich form!
Choosing the Perfect Bread
For this Cheddar Broccoli Grilled Cheese, starting with the right bread is key. A sturdy, artisan loaf with a strong flavor—like the Vermont Cheddar loaf I used—gives the sandwich that extra level of cheesy depth. Opting for a thick-cut slice ensures it will hold up well during grilling while adding texture to every bite.
Building Layers of Flavor
This isn’t just your average grilled cheese. By layering sharp white cheddar with shredded yellow cheddar and freshly cooked broccoli, you get a wonderful balance of flavor and texture. The broccoli adds a subtle bite and freshness that complements the rich cheese, creating a delicious harmony in every bite.
Buttering It Right
The chive-infused butter is one of the secrets to making this sandwich extra special. The fresh, herby flavor from the chives adds complexity and cuts through the richness of the cheese. When spread on the outside of the bread, the butter helps create that perfectly golden, crispy crust that every grilled cheese lover dreams of.
Griddling for That Perfect Crisp
The trick to the ultimate grilled cheese is getting that perfect sear on the bread. By preheating the griddle and pressing down the sandwich while it cooks (I like using parchment and a steak weight), you ensure even browning and a delightful crunch. Flipping at just the right moment, and adding more chive butter, gives you a golden crust with gooey goodness inside.
Finishing Touches
For a little extra flair, I like to sprinkle more chives on top once the grilled cheese is off the heat. This simple garnish makes the sandwich visually appealing while adding a pop of freshness. Letting the sandwich cool slightly before cutting ensures that the cheese has set enough to stay inside, resulting in perfect cheesy bites every time.
Cheddar Broccoli Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 4 slices bread, I used a Vermont Cheddar artisan loaf from a local bakery for extra cheddar love
- Cheddar cheese (I used sliced white cheddar and shredded yellow cheddar)
- 1/2-3/4 cup chopped cooked broccoli
- 2 tbsps unsalted butter, room temp
- 1 tbsp chopped chive
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the chives and a pinch of salt into the softened butter.
- On one slice of bread, layer white cheddar, broccoli, and shredded yellow cheddar, then top with the second slice of bread. Spread about 1/2 tablespoon of the chive butter on the outside of the sandwich.
- Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich, buttered side down, on the griddle. Use parchment paper and a steak weight (or a spatula) to press the sandwich down as it cooks. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown.
- Carefully spread more chive butter on the top slice of bread before flipping the sandwich. Grill the other side for another 2-3 minutes, until crispy and golden. Once done, top with extra chives if desired. Let the sandwich cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
