Description
Cheddar Pumpkin Healthier Grilled Cheese is a delicious, savory twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, made even more comforting with the addition of creamy pumpkin. This lighter version swaps in healthier ingredients without compromising on flavor, making it perfect for a fall-inspired lunch or dinner. The blend of melted cheddar cheese and smooth pumpkin puree gives this sandwich a rich, cheesy, and subtly sweet flavor that’s perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients
2 slices whole grain bread (or your favorite healthier bread)
2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
1 tablespoon cream cheese (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp or aged for more flavor)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or 1 teaspoon butter)
Salt and pepper, to taste
A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, for a fall-inspired twist)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, cream cheese (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard (if using), cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a thin layer of the pumpkin mixture on one slice of bread. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pumpkin mixture. Place the second slice of bread on top, pressing gently to form the sandwich.
- Grill the Sandwich: Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil or butter is melted and hot, add the sandwich to the pan. Grill the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. You can cover the pan with a lid to help melt the cheese more evenly.
- Serve: Once the sandwich is golden and crispy on both sides, remove it from the pan and let it sit for a minute before cutting it in half. This helps prevent the cheese from spilling out. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Add a few fresh spinach leaves or arugula inside the sandwich for a burst of greens and extra nutrition.
Use Gruyère or fontina cheese instead of cheddar for a different melt and flavor profile.
Swap out the whole grain bread for gluten-free bread to make the sandwich gluten-free.
Add a few slices of turkey or chicken for extra protein if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: Varies depending on ingredients used
- Sugar: Varies
- Sodium: Varies
- Fat: Varies depending on butter and cheese used
- Saturated Fat: Varies
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Varies
- Fiber: Varies
- Protein: Varies
- Cholesterol: Varies depending on butter and cheese used
