Introduction

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Mozzarella Stick Grilled Cheese sandwiches. Crispy, gooey mozzarella sticks melt inside layers of mozzarella cheese and bread, all enhanced by flavorful marinara sauce. It’s a fun twist on the classic grilled cheese perfect for a snack or quick meal.

Mozzarella Stick Grilled Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

8 frozen mozzarella sticks
4 slices mozzarella cheese
4 slices Italian or sourdough bread
½ cup marinara sauce, plus extra for dipping
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

Step 1: Bake mozzarella sticks according to the package instructions until they are golden and crispy. Keep them warm while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
Step 3: Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. On each, layer 2 slices of mozzarella cheese, 4 cooked mozzarella sticks, and 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce.
Step 4: Cover each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
Step 5: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill the sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Step 6: Remove from heat and serve immediately with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For a crispier crust, use bread that is a day old or slightly toasted before assembling.
Add fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning inside for extra flavor.
Try swapping mozzarella cheese slices for provolone or cheddar for different cheese profiles.

Storage

Store any leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat until the cheese melts again, or use a toaster oven to keep the bread crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-sliced cheese?

Yes, fresh mozzarella can be used, but slice it thinly and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which can make the sandwich soggy.

What can I substitute for marinara sauce if I don’t have any?

You can use pizza sauce, tomato sauce with Italian seasoning, or even a garlic butter spread for a different but tasty twist.

Mozzarella Stick Grilled Cheese Recipe

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Mozzarella Stick Grilled Cheese is a delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, combining crispy baked mozzarella sticks with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce, all sandwiched between buttery toasted Italian or sourdough bread. This comforting and indulgent meal is perfect for a quick lunch or satisfying snack.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Category: Lunch
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese & Bread

8 frozen mozzarella sticks
4 slices mozzarella cheese
4 slices Italian or sourdough bread

Sauces & Spreads

½ cup marinara sauce, plus extra for dipping

Butter

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

Prepare mozzarella sticks: Bake the frozen mozzarella sticks according to the package instructions until they are golden and crispy. Once baked, keep them warm for assembling the sandwiches.
Butter the bread: Spread a thin layer of softened unsalted butter on one side of each bread slice. This will help create a crispy, golden crust when grilling.
Assemble sandwiches: Lay two slices of bread buttered side down on a clean surface. On each slice, layer 2 slices of mozzarella cheese, then place 4 cooked mozzarella sticks evenly on top, and spoon 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over the sticks.
Top sandwiches: Cover each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up, ensuring the buttered sides face out for grilling.
Grill sandwiches: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and serve immediately with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

For extra crispiness, you can use a panini press if available.
If you prefer, substitute the mozzarella cheese slices with provolone or cheddar for a different flavor.
Ensure mozzarella sticks are fully cooked and warm before assembling to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
Use softened butter for easier spreading and better coverage on the bread.
Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Keywords: Mozzarella Stick Grilled Cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, mozzarella sticks, marinara sauce, crispy grilled cheese, quick lunch, comfort food