Save to Pinterest The first time I made this asparagus and Brie grilled cheese, I was trying to use up some vegetables that were wilting in my fridge and a wedge of cheese from a dinner party three nights prior. It was a rainy Tuesday, and I was craving something comforting but not heavy. When I took that first bite, the way the creamy Brie wrapped around the slightly charred asparagus made me pause right there in my kitchen. This wasn't just leftovers anymore, it was something I'd want to make again on purpose.
I made these sandwiches for my sister last spring when she was visiting for the weekend. She's usually skeptical about anything that sounds 'fancy' but took one bite and went completely silent. We ended up sitting at the counter for an hour just talking and eating, both of us with melted cheese on our chins, not even caring. Sometimes the simplest meals become the best memories.
Ingredients
- Asparagus spears: Thin ones work best here because they'll cook through quickly and won't be woody or tough, plus they lay flat against the bread so everything melts evenly
- Olive oil: Just a teaspoon helps the asparagus get those gorgeous char marks and prevents sticking, plus it adds a little fruity note that plays nicely with the Brie
- Salt and pepper: Keep it light since the Brie is naturally salty, but you need enough to wake up the asparagus flavor
- Brie cheese: Room temperature slices melt faster and more evenly, and don't stress about removing the rind, it gets perfectly soft and adds earthy depth
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter spreads more evenly than cold, and coating every inch of the bread surface is what gives you that golden, restaurant quality crunch
- Crusty sourdough: Something with a sturdy structure that won't collapse under the weight of the cheese, and those air holes catch all the melted bits
Instructions
- Prep your asparagus:
- Toss those trimmed spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they're lightly coated. Grill them in a hot pan for 3 to 4 minutes, turning them here and there until they're tender and have those beautiful charred spots. Set them aside on a plate while you assemble everything else.
- Butter your bread:
- Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice, going all the way to the edges. This is what creates that golden, crispy crust that makes grilled cheese so addictive.
- Build your sandwiches:
- Lay two slices butter side down and layer half the Brie on each, followed by your grilled asparagus, then the remaining cheese. Top with the other bread slices, butter side facing up, like you're tucking everything in for a nap.
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook them in a skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with your spatula now and then. You're looking for deep golden bread and cheese that's oozing out the sides just a little bit.
- Rest and serve:
- Let the sandwiches sit for a full minute before slicing. This tiny wait keeps the cheese from running everywhere when you cut into them. Slice diagonally and serve while they're still hot and melty.
Save to Pinterest This sandwich has become my go to when I want something that feels special but doesn't require a trip to the grocery store. There's something about the combination of smoky asparagus and creamy Brie that hits every craving at once.
Make It Your Own
A thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of the bread adds this sharp brightness that cuts through the richness, and fig jam creates this sweet savory situation that's honestly addictive. Camembert works beautifully if you want something slightly funkier than Brie.
Perfect Sides
A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the cheese, and tomato soup is classic for a reason. I also love this with a simple cucumber and dill salad when I want something fresh and cooling.
Wine Pairing
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creaminess while complementing the asparagus. If you prefer red, go for something light like a Pinot Noir that won't overwhelm the delicate flavors. A crisp rosé works beautifully too, especially on warm days.
- Chill your wine for at least 30 minutes before serving
- Keep the pouring generous because this sandwich deserves it
- A sparkling water with lemon makes a lovely non alcoholic option
Save to Pinterest Hope this brings you as much joy as it's brought me, whether you're cooking for someone special or just treating yourself on a quiet afternoon.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I prepare the asparagus for the sandwich?
Trim and toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill or sauté until tender and slightly charred.
- → Can I substitute Brie cheese with other cheeses?
Yes, Camembert or Fontina make excellent alternatives that melt well and offer similar creamy textures.
- → What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
Crusty sourdough or country-style bread is ideal for holding the fillings and crisping nicely when grilled.
- → How do I achieve a golden, melted finish on the sandwich?
Butter the bread slices before grilling on medium heat, pressing gently with a spatula to melt the cheese evenly and brown the bread.
- → What sides pair well with this asparagus and Brie sandwich?
A crisp green salad, tomato soup, or a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complement the flavors beautifully.