Description
A deliciously indulgent twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, featuring layers of warm leftover spaghetti with meat sauce and a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses grilled to golden perfection on Italian bread. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 4 large slices Italian bread (or 6 smaller slices)
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter (at room temperature)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Cheeses
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Filling
- 1 ½ cups leftover spaghetti with meat sauce (warmed through)
Instructions
- Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, stir together the salted butter and garlic powder until thoroughly combined. This garlic butter will add a flavorful crust to the outside of the bread.
- Butter and Parmesan the Bread: Spread the garlic butter evenly on the outside of each slice of bread, covering the entire surface to the edges. Next, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the buttered sides and gently press it into the butter to adhere well, enhancing both flavor and crispness.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: On a clean surface, layer each sandwich starting with one slice of bread, buttered side facing out. Add shredded mozzarella cheese first, then top with a generous scoop of warmed leftover spaghetti with meat sauce, followed by slices of provolone cheese. Finish by placing the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a well-seasoned cast iron or heavy non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet, cooking for about 3 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crisp. Carefully flip the sandwiches over, cover the pan to trap heat, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, which allows the second side to brown and the cheeses to melt thoroughly.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the grilled sandwiches from the skillet and serve hot to enjoy the gooey cheese and savory spaghetti melded inside a perfectly toasted crust.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best grip and crunch when grilling.
- Ensure leftover spaghetti is well warmed to avoid cooling down the sandwich during assembly.
- Covering the pan after flipping helps cheese melt evenly without burning the bread.
- For a vegetarian version, use spaghetti without meat and select vegetarian cheeses.
- This recipe is perfect for using up leftover spaghetti in a creative and tasty way.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
