Save to Pinterest A bold, flavorful twist on classic grilled cheese: spicy roasted cauliflower, creamy ranch, and gooey melted cheese between crispy golden bread slices.
This sandwich quickly became a favorite in my household thanks to its unique flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
- Buffalo Cauliflower: 3 cups small cauliflower florets, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce
- Ranch Spread: 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
- Sandwiches: 8 slices sourdough or country-style bread, 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Toss Cauliflower:
- In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet
- Roast Cauliflower:
- Roast cauliflower for 15 minutes stirring halfway through. Remove from oven toss with buffalo wing sauce and roast 5 more minutes. Set aside
- Make Ranch Spread:
- In a small bowl mix ranch dressing with chives and dill if using
- Prepare Bread:
- Lay out bread slices and spread ranch mixture on one side of each slice
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- On four slices sprinkle half the cheddar and mozzarella. Top with buffalo cauliflower then the remaining cheese. Cover with remaining bread slices ranch-side down
- Prepare Skillet:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on the outer sides of each sandwich
- Grill Sandwiches:
- Grill sandwiches 3 4 minutes per side pressing gently until bread is golden and cheese is melted
- Serve:
- Let cool for 1 minute slice and serve warm
Save to Pinterest My family gathers around the kitchen table laughing and sharing stories every time I make this grilled cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this sandwich with a crisp lager or a citrusy IPA for a delicious meal experience.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Variation Ideas
Add sliced green onions or a handful of baby spinach for a fresh twist and extra flavor.
Save to Pinterest This sandwich delivers a perfect balance of heat and creaminess that’s sure to impress your taste buds every time.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I roast cauliflower for best flavor?
Toss small florets with olive oil and spices, roast at a high temperature until slightly browned, then toss with buffalo sauce and roast briefly again for spiciness and caramelization.
- → What cheeses work well in this sandwich?
A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella provides a lovely balance of sharpness and meltiness, creating a gooey texture inside the sandwich.
- → Can I prepare the ranch spread ahead of time?
Yes, mixing ranch dressing with fresh herbs like chives and dill a few hours ahead allows flavors to meld nicely.
- → How do I get crispy bread without burning the cheese?
Grill the sandwich over medium heat, buttering the outer sides evenly and pressing gently to ensure even toasting and melted cheese without burning.
- → What variations can enhance the sandwich’s flavor?
Add sliced green onions or baby spinach inside for freshness, or drizzle extra buffalo sauce for more heat before serving.