Save A bold, flavorful twist on classic grilled cheese: spicy roasted cauliflower, creamy ranch, and gooey melted cheese between crispy golden bread slices.
I first served this to my family and they loved the unexpected combination of flavors. It quickly became a weekend favorite.
Ingredients
- For the 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
- For the Ranch Spread: 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
- For the 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
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3:
- Roast cauliflower for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through. Remove from oven, toss with buffalo wing sauce, and roast 5 more minutes. Set aside.
- Step 4:
- In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing with chives and dill, if using.
- Step 5:
- Lay out bread slices. Spread ranch mixture on one side of each slice.
- Step 6:
- 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.
- Step 7:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on the outer sides of each sandwich.
- Step 8:
- Grill sandwiches 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Step 9:
- Let cool for 1 minute, slice, and serve warm.
Pin it This sandwich often sparks lively discussion around our dinner table about comfort food with a healthy twist.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, Mixing bowls, Skillet or griddle, Spatula, Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread), Milk (cheese, butter, ranch). Ranch dressing may contain eggs or soy check labels if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 430, Total Fat: 27 g, Carbohydrates: 35 g, Protein: 13 g
Pin it This grilled cheese variant is sure to impress everyone with its unique flavor combination and satisfying crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you achieve crispy cauliflower in this dish?
Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil and seasonings, then roast at high heat first to tenderize and brown before coating with buffalo sauce and roasting again for crispiness.
- → What cheeses work best for melting here?
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella combine well to create a creamy, stretchy melt that balances the spicy and tangy flavors.
- → Can I use homemade ranch dressing?
Absolutely, homemade ranch with fresh herbs enhances the overall flavor and texture of the spread perfectly.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based cheeses, vegan butter, and a dairy-free ranch alternative to keep the creamy and melty qualities while making it vegan-friendly.
- → What bread works best for grilling?
Rustic sourdough or country-style breads hold up well to grilling, providing a crunchy exterior and sturdy base for the filling.