Sandwiches & Wraps

Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Spinach

This Spinach and Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of sautéed spinach, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creamy feta, and melty cheddar between crispy, buttery bread creates an irresistible bite. Quick and easy to prepare, this sandwich can be served on its own or paired with a fresh salad or soup for a complete meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • ½ tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups spinach leaves (113 g / 1.4 lb)
  • A pinch of salt
  • 4 slices bread (sourdough recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened at room temperature
  • 6-8 pieces sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella cheese)
  • A pinch of oregano
  • A pinch of crushed chili flakes
  • Honey (optional for serving)

Directions

  1. Prepare the spinach: Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan and sauté the spinach for 5-6 minutes until wilted. Sprinkle with salt, stir, and transfer to a plate. Clean the pan with a paper towel.
  2. Prepare the bread: Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. The buttered side will be in contact with the pan for a golden, crispy crust.
  3. Assemble the sandwich:
    • Place two slices of bread, butter side down, in the pan.
    • Arrange chopped sun-dried tomatoes on each slice, pressing them slightly to stick.
    • Add half of the crumbled feta, half of the shredded cheddar, and the cooked spinach.
    • Top with the remaining feta and cheddar cheese.
    • Sprinkle oregano and chili flakes over the filling.
    • Place the second slice of bread on top, butter side up.
  4. Cook the sandwich:
    • Heat the pan over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes or until the bottom turns golden brown.
    • Flip carefully and cook for another 5 minutes until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
  5. Serve: Optionally, sprinkle with thyme or oregano, red pepper flakes, and drizzle with honey. Serve immediately.

Nutrients (Per Serving – 1 Sandwich)

  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 5.1 g
  • Sodium: 1945.5 mg
  • Fat: 31.8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34.5 g
  • Protein: 15.8 g
  • Cholesterol: 80.2 mg

Why You’ll Love This Spinach and Feta Grilled Cheese

This sandwich is a must-try for cheese lovers and foodies alike. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Elevated Flavor Profile – The tanginess of feta, the rich umami of sun-dried tomatoes, and the creaminess of melted cheddar create a sophisticated combination of flavors.
  • Nutrient-Rich Ingredients – Spinach adds vitamins and minerals, making this sandwich both indulgent and nutritious.
  • Golden, Crispy Bread – Cooking the bread with butter ensures a perfect golden-brown crust that complements the soft, cheesy filling.
  • Quick and Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you can prepare this gourmet-style sandwich in under 15 minutes.

Health Benefits of This Sandwich

Although grilled cheese sandwiches are often seen as an indulgent treat, this version is packed with nutrients that make it a well-rounded meal. Here’s how each key ingredient contributes to your health:

  • Spinach – Loaded with iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, spinach supports heart health, boosts immunity, and provides essential nutrients for strong bones.
  • Feta Cheese – This Mediterranean cheese is rich in calcium and protein while being lower in fat compared to some other cheeses. It also contains probiotics that promote gut health.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which helps protect against inflammation and supports skin health.
  • Cheddar Cheese – A great source of protein and calcium, cheddar contributes to bone health and muscle function.

Perfect for Any Time of Day

While grilled cheese is often thought of as a lunch option, this Spinach and Feta Grilled Cheese works well for various meals:

  • Lunch – Serve it with a simple side salad or vegetable sticks for a light yet satisfying midday meal.
  • Dinner – Pair it with a bowl of soup, such as tomato basil or creamy mushroom, for a cozy and comforting dinner.
  • Brunch – Add a fried or poached egg on top for a hearty brunch option.
  • Snack – Cut it into smaller pieces and serve as an appetizer or snack for guests.

The Best Bread for This Grilled Cheese

Bread plays a crucial role in the texture and taste of a grilled cheese sandwich. The right choice can elevate the entire experience. Here are some of the best options:

  • Sourdough – The slight tanginess of sourdough pairs beautifully with the feta and sun-dried tomatoes, and its sturdy texture holds up well to grilling.
  • Ciabatta – With its airy interior and crisp crust, ciabatta creates a delicious crunch when toasted.
  • Whole-Grain Bread – If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole-grain bread adds fiber and nutrients without sacrificing taste.
  • Baguette Slices – Using a sliced baguette creates a crispy, gourmet-style sandwich with a chewy center.

How to Customize Your Spinach and Feta Grilled Cheese

One of the best things about this sandwich is its versatility. Here are some easy ways to customize it:

  • Add a Protein Boost – Include grilled chicken, turkey slices, or even crispy bacon for extra protein.
  • Make It Spicier – Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Try Different Cheeses – Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or provolone to experiment with different melting textures.
  • Include More Vegetables – Mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or caramelized onions would complement the flavors beautifully.
  • Drizzle with Honey – A touch of honey adds a delightful contrast of sweetness to the tangy feta and savory spinach.

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Cheese

Making the perfect grilled cheese requires a few key techniques. Here are some tips to achieve the best results:

  • Use Room-Temperature Butter – Spreading softened butter on the bread ensures even coverage, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior.
  • Cook on Medium Heat – Cooking too fast on high heat may burn the bread before the cheese has time to melt. A steady medium heat allows for even toasting and gooey cheese.
  • Press Lightly with a Spatula – Gently pressing the sandwich helps everything hold together and ensures maximum contact with the pan for a crispy crust.
  • Let It Rest Before Cutting – Allowing the sandwich to sit for a minute before slicing helps keep the filling intact.

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal

While this grilled cheese is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides enhances the overall experience. Here are some great options:

  • Tomato Soup – The classic pairing of grilled cheese and tomato soup is a comforting and timeless combination.
  • Greek Salad – A fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and a lemon dressing complements the Mediterranean flavors of the sandwich.
  • Roasted Vegetables – A side of roasted zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus adds extra nutrition and balances the richness of the cheese.
  • Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad with oranges, berries, and mint adds a refreshing contrast to the savory sandwich.

A Budget-Friendly and Quick Meal Option

This Spinach and Feta Grilled Cheese is not only delicious but also cost-effective. Most of the ingredients—spinach, cheese, bread, and sun-dried tomatoes—are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home in under 15 minutes.

Additionally, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover ingredients. If you have extra spinach from a salad or feta from another dish, this sandwich is a great way to make sure nothing goes to waste.

Conclusion

The Spinach and Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a delicious and elevated take on the classic grilled cheese. With its combination of creamy feta, melty cheddar, sun-dried tomatoes, and sautéed spinach, it offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The crispy, buttery bread adds the perfect crunch, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or a creative twist on a comfort food favorite, this sandwich is an excellent choice. It’s simple to make, packed with nutrients, and easy to customize based on your preferences. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a well-rounded meal for any occasion.

 

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