Description
Feta Grilled Cheese with Spinach
Looking for a quick, satisfying lunch? This Feta Grilled Cheese with Spinach is the perfect choice! Tangy feta, melty cheddar, and sun-dried tomatoes are packed between buttery, crispy sourdough bread. The sautéed spinach adds a fresh, healthy twist, while a hint of oregano and chili flakes elevate the flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a versatile sandwich that works for lunch, dinner, or even a cozy brunch. Serve it with a fresh salad or a bowl of warm tomato soup for a complete meal!
½ tbsp olive oil
2 cups spinach leaves
4 slices bread (sourdough recommended)
2 tbsp butter, softened
6-8 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pinch of oregano
Pinch of chili flakes
Honey (optional)
Directions:
1. Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted. Season with salt.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Layer sun-dried tomatoes, feta, cheddar, spinach, and spices between bread slices.
4. Grill until golden brown and cheese is gooey.
5. Serve with a drizzle of honey, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 min
Kcal: 480
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect sandwich. First, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spinach and a pinch of salt, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until just wilted. Transfer to a plate. Take your sourdough slices and evenly butter one side of each. Place two slices, buttered-side down, on your work surface. On each, layer the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, followed by the crumbled feta, shredded cheddar, and the sautéed spinach. Sprinkle the oregano and chili flakes evenly over the fillings. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered-side up. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is deeply golden brown and crispy and the cheese is fully melted. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat.
Serving Suggestions
This grilled cheese is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with sides. For a classic combo, serve it with a bowl of creamy tomato or roasted red pepper soup. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness. For a brunch twist, add a fried egg on the side. The optional honey drizzle recommended in the recipe adds a delightful sweet-and-salty finish that complements the feta perfectly.
How-to Summary
Sauté spinach. Butter sourdough bread. Layer fillings (sun-dried tomatoes, feta, cheddar, spinach, spices) between slices. Grill in a pan over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and melty. Drizzle with optional honey before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread? Absolutely. While sourdough offers great structure and tang, ciabatta, a hearty whole grain, or even a good quality white bread will work. Adjust grilling time if using a softer bread.
My cheese isn’t melting before the bread burns. What can I do? The key is low and slow. Use medium-low heat and cover the pan with a lid for a minute or two. This traps steam and helps melt the cheese without over-toasting the bread.
Can I make this vegetarian-friendly? This recipe is already vegetarian. Ensure your cheeses are made with vegetarian rennet if that is a concern.
How can I add protein? For a heartier sandwich, add a layer of sliced avocado, a few slices of grilled chicken, or a spread of white bean hummus.
Can I prepare any components ahead? Yes. You can sauté the spinach and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also mix the feta and cheddar cheeses together in advance for easier assembly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Using high heat, which leads to burnt bread and unmelted cheese. Overstuffing the sandwich, which makes it difficult to cook evenly and messy to eat. Using cold butter straight from the fridge; ensure it’s softened for easy, even spreading. Not seasoning the spinach, which is a missed opportunity for flavor. Using pre-crumbled feta, which is often drier and less flavorful than a block you crumble yourself.
Conclusion
This Feta Grilled Cheese with Spinach transforms a simple classic into a gourmet experience. The combination of tangy, salty feta with melty cheddar and the sweet intensity of sun-dried tomatoes is unbeatable. In just 20 minutes, you can create a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly crispy, gooey result every time. Don’t forget the final flourish of honey—it truly makes this sandwich special.