This Gluten-Free Grilled Cheese Hummus Sandwich With Pumpkin might just be the grown-up comfort food you didn’t know you needed!
Like any red-blooded American, my kids love a good grilled cheese. Heck, I love a good grilled cheese. I mean, is there anything more satisfying than buttery, crispy bread with ooey-gooey cheese inside? So what if I’m a dad with a job, a mortgage, and an ever-receding hairline? I’m not too “grown-up” to enjoy one of life’s simple pleasures.
That said, I’m well past the days of slapping a single slice of Kraft’s American “cheese” between Wonder Bread. I am more adult-ish with my recipes these days. If you’re in the same recipe boat, you might like this grilled cheese hummus sandwich with pumpkin. Truth be told, all three of my kids initially held some well-deserved skepticism. Hummus and pumpkin? In a grilled cheese sandwich? Come on, dad! But one bite in, and they were hooked. Now, it’s a menu regular for weekend lunches and casual dinners.
I must reiterate, dear reader, this is not your childhood grilled cheese, and that’s a good thing. This sandwich is the ultimate flavor bomb. The sharp and nutty Parmesan cheese and garlicky hummus contrast so wonderfully with the pumpkin purée—I’m a sucker for recipes that mix sweet and savory. And whether you use gluten-free bread or not, the crispy, golden crust ties it back to the glory days when Mom made you a sandwich, and all was right with the world!
Is This Gluten-Free Grilled Cheese Hummus Sandwich With Pumpkin Healthy?
While I wouldn’t call this low-fat (or low-carb), this sandwich is not devoid of nutritional benefits. For one thing, the pumpkin purée provides vitamin A, and the spinach adds a boost of iron and vitamin C. The hummus also serves plant-based protein. For dietary adjustments, you can easily make this vegetarian or vegan. Swap the Parmesan for a plant-based cheese, and double-check that your hummus is vegan-friendly.
Pumpkin In Grilled Cheese? Really?
I get it. Pumpkin sounds like an odd choice for grilled cheese.
Okay, hear me out.
Mixed with the hummus, it creates a creamy, spreadable layer that adds moisture and richness without extra butter or oil. Plus, its subtle sweetness contrasts so deliciously with the salty Parmesan. And I simply can’t deny the autumnal vibes of this sandwich—we’re talking Gilmore Girls-level here, people. Once you try it, you’ll see what I mean. It’s a flavor match made in culinary heaven.
How To Make Ahead And Store
I wouldn’t make this grilled cheese sandwich ahead—definitely serve it fresh! However, I suppose you could prep the pumpkin-hummus spread in advance. As long as you use an airtight container, the spread should keep in your fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Not serving grilled cheese without soup is plain wrong in my book. Personally, I’d stick with a classic Tomato Soup Recipe, but this Tomato Bisque is equally delicious. While you’re at it, add a simple Green Salad on the side. For the kiddos (and kiddos at heart), starch it up with some Homemade French Fries In Air Fryer!
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 ounces Parmesan cheese sliced
- 4 slices gluten-free whole-grain bread
- 1/4 cup canned pumpkin purée
- 2 tablespoon garlic herb hummus (or your preferred flavor)
- Spinach
Instructions
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil on medium heat.
- Divide the cheese between 2 of the slices of bread.
- In a small bowl, stir together the pumpkin and hummus. Divide between the two cheese-covered slices of bread and spread evenly.
- Top it with as much spinach as you like. Then, cover it with the other slice of bread, gently pressing it down to adhere it to the hummus/pumpkin combo.
- Place the sandwiches into the heated pan and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Cook until toasty and golden brown, and the cheese begins to melt, about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely so they don't burn!
- Use a spatula to carefully flip each sandwich over and cook until the alternate side is crunchy and golden.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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