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Quick Description

This Lasagna Grilled Cheese combines all the gooey, cheesy goodness of classic lasagna with the crispy golden crunch of a grilled cheese sandwich. Stuffed with marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh herbs, then topped with more melty cheese, it’s a comfort-food lover’s dream.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 2–3 sandwiches (depending on bread size)
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients List

For the Sandwiches

  • 6 slices thick Italian bread or sourdough
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil leaves (or 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning)
  • 2 tbsp butter (softened, for spreading on bread)

Optional Add-Ins

  • Cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey (for protein)
  • Sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables (for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Bread
    • Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. This will be the “outside” for grilling.
  2. Assemble the Sandwiches
    • Place one slice of bread butter-side down in a skillet. Spread a spoonful of marinara, then layer with ricotta, mozzarella, and basil.
    • Add another spoonful of marinara and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
    • Top with another bread slice, butter-side up.
  3. Grill the Sandwiches
    • Heat skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each sandwich 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.
  4. Optional Oven Melt
    • For the ultimate lasagna look (like in the photo), transfer sandwiches to a baking sheet, top with extra mozzarella and marinara, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
  5. Serve
    • Slice in half and serve hot with extra marinara for dipping.

Additional Notes

  • Use thick, sturdy bread to hold all the fillings.
  • Fresh mozzarella gives the best gooey melt.
  • For a true lasagna vibe, layer in cooked ground beef or sausage.

Dietary Info

  • Vegetarian (without meat add-ins) ✅
  • High-Protein (with meat or cottage cheese mix-in) ✅
  • Kid-Friendly ✅
  • Not Keto/Low-Carb ❌ (but can be adapted with low-carb bread).

Variations & Serving Ideas

  1. Meaty Version: Add browned Italian sausage or ground beef.
  2. Spinach Ricotta: Layer sautéed spinach with ricotta for a vegetarian twist.
  3. Four Cheese: Use ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone.
  4. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or spicy marinara.
  5. Meal-Prep Friendly: Assemble sandwiches ahead, refrigerate, then grill when ready.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Best eaten fresh (crispy bread, melty cheese).
  • If storing, wrap in foil and refrigerate up to 1 day; reheat in oven or air fryer.
  • Avoid microwaving (bread gets soggy).