Elevate your sandwich game with these irresistible Smashed Veggie Cheese Sandwiches—where wholesome sautéed vegetables meet gooey melted cheddar in a perfectly crispy, buttery bread embrace. This quick and satisfying recipe is loaded with vibrant ingredients like carrots, zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers, lightly smashed to create a savory, textured filling. Seasoned with garlic, a pinch of chili flakes, and melted cheddar cheese, each sandwich delivers a flavorful and nutrient-packed bite. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a comforting snack, these toasted delights come together in just 35 minutes and pair beautifully with a warm bowl of soup or a crisp side salad. Whether you're looking to sneak in extra veggies or satisfy a cheesy craving, this versatile recipe is guaranteed to delight.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the diced carrot, zucchini, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender.
Mix in the chopped spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted.
Season the veggies with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Stir well and use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to lightly smash the veggies. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Spread a layer of the sautéed veggie mixture on a slice of bread. Top with about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese, then place another slice of bread on top to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining bread and filling.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the outside of each sandwich.
Place the sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
Remove from heat and let the sandwiches cool for 1 minute before slicing in half. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Calories |
1848 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 118.7 g | 152% | |
| Saturated Fat | 59.1 g | 296% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 244 mg | 81% | |
| Sodium | 3503 mg | 152% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 150.0 g | 55% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.8 g | 60% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.7 g | ||
| Protein | 57.7 g | 115% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 1273 mg | 98% | |
| Iron | 11.7 mg | 65% | |
| Potassium | 1738 mg | 37% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.