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Cheddar Pumpkin Healthier Grilled Cheese Recipe

Cheddar Pumpkin Healthier Grilled Cheese Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 14 reviews

A healthier twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, this Cheddar Pumpkin Grilled Cheese combines creamy pumpkin puree, spicy seasonings, melted cheddar, and fresh arugula, all toasted to golden perfection on whole grain bread. It’s a nutritious and flavorful comfort food perfect for autumn or any time you crave a deliciously warm sandwich with a bit of a kick.

Ingredients

Scale

Pumpkin Mixture

  • 1 cup 100% pure pumpkin
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (use reduced-fat, if desired)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika

Sandwich

  • 8 slices white whole grain bread
  • Butter (enough to spread on the slices of bread)
  • 2 cups arugula

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for toasting the sandwiches evenly and achieving a perfect golden crust.
  2. Prepare the pumpkin mixture. In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the 100% pure pumpkin, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, chili powder, and paprika until smooth and well mixed.
  3. Butter the bread slices. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each of the 8 slices of white whole grain bread. This will help create a crispy, golden exterior when baked.
  4. Assemble the sandwiches – first layer. Place 4 slices of the buttered bread butter side down on a baking sheet. Evenly distribute about half of the pumpkin and cheese mixture over these slices.
  5. Add the arugula layer. Sprinkle a small handful of fresh arugula on top of the pumpkin mixture on each slice, adding a fresh, peppery bite.
  6. Assemble the sandwiches – second layer. Spread the remaining pumpkin mixture evenly over the arugula, then top with the remaining 4 slices of bread, buttered side up to ensure crispiness on both sides.
  7. Bake and flip the sandwiches. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 6-8 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Carefully flip each sandwich over and bake for an additional 6 minutes, or until the second side is also golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Notes

  • Use reduced-fat cheddar to make the sandwich lower in fat and calories without sacrificing flavor.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • If white whole grain bread is unavailable, use any whole grain or multigrain bread for added fiber and nutrition.
  • Butter can be substituted with a light spread or olive oil to reduce saturated fat.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, as the sandwich is crispiest right out of the oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: Grilled cheese, pumpkin, cheddar, healthier grilled cheese, autumn sandwich, baked sandwich, arugula, spicy grilled cheese

Find it online: https://victoriablair.com/cheddar-pumpkin-healthier-grilled-cheese-recipe/