Pin it A bold, flavorful twist on classic grilled cheese: spicy roasted cauliflower, creamy ranch, and gooey melted cheese between crispy golden bread slices.
I first tried this recipe on a cold evening and it quickly became a family favorite for its bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
- 3 cups small cauliflower florets: for the buffalo cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: for roasting
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: seasoning
- 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce: for coating cauliflower
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing: for the ranch spread
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional): to add to the ranch
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional): to add to the ranch
- 8 slices sourdough or country-style bread: for sandwiches
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: for filling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: for filling
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: for grilling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare 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.
- Mix Ranch:
- In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing with chives and dill, if using.
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- Lay out bread slices. Spread ranch mixture on one side of each slice. 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 to Grill:
- 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.
Pin it This recipe always brings us together around the table for a cozy and delicious meal.
Preparation Tips
Ensure the cauliflower is cut into even florets for uniform roasting and spiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this grilled cheese with a crisp lager or a citrusy IPA to balance the heat.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers and reheat in a skillet to maintain the crispy bread.
Pin it Enjoy this bold twist on grilled cheese with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you achieve a crispy texture on the bread?
Spread softened butter on the outside of each bread slice before grilling. Cook over medium heat until the bread is golden and crisp.
- → Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, by substituting plant-based cheeses, vegan ranch alternatives, and dairy-free butter, this dish can be made vegan.
- → What is the best way to roast the cauliflower evenly?
Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil and spices, spread in a single layer on a baking sheet, and roast, stirring halfway through, for even cooking.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Add extra buffalo wing sauce before serving or choose a milder sauce to control the heat.
- → What types of bread work best?
Sourdough or country-style bread hold up well to grilling and provide a sturdy base for the fillings.
- → Is it necessary to mix fresh herbs into the ranch spread?
While optional, fresh chives and dill enhance flavor and add a subtle herbal freshness to the spread.