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Cheddar Pumpkin Healthier Grilled Cheese

Cheddar Pumpkin Healthier Grilled Cheese Delight You'll Love

This Cheddar Pumpkin Healthier Grilled Cheese elevates a classic comfort food with a healthy twist, featuring creamy cheddar and pumpkin goodness.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 cup 100% pure pumpkin Adds moisture and a subtly sweet flavor, rich in vitamin A; can substitute butternut squash puree if preferred.
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese Provides creaminess and richness; reduced-fat cheddar works well for a lighter version.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt Enhances flavor; adjust to taste but no substitute recommended.
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder Adds a hint of spiciness; use paprika for a milder flavor if desired.
  • ½ teaspoon paprika Contributes color and mild flavor; optional cayenne pepper can be included for more heat.
For the Sandwich Assembly
  • 8 slices white whole grain bread Serves as the delicious base; sourdough or regular white bread can also be used.
  • Butter Spread on the bread for that perfect golden-brown finish; can be replaced with a vegan alternative or olive oil.
  • 2 cups arugula Adds a fresh, crunchy layer packed with fiber; substitute with fresh spinach or omit if you prefer.

Equipment

  • oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Pumpkin Healthier Grilled Cheese
  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
  2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of pure pumpkin, ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of chili powder, and ½ teaspoon of paprika. Stir until fully blended.
  3. Generously butter one side of each slice of bread, ensuring even coverage.
  4. On a baking sheet, lay 4 slices of bread butter-side down. Spread half of the pumpkin mixture over these slices, top with arugula, and then add remaining pumpkin mixture. Place other slices of bread on top, butter-side up.
  5. Bake for 6-8 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown. Flip and bake for an additional 6 minutes until both sides are golden and filling is warm.
  6. Remove from oven, let cool for a minute, slice if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Serve alongside a light salad or a warm bowl of tomato soup for a classic comfort meal. Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

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