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If you love comfort food mashups, this spaghetti grilled cheese sandwich might just become your next obsession. Imagine garlicky, crispy bread stuffed with saucy pasta and gooey mozzarella. It is a dinner and a guilty pleasure all in one, giving you the best parts of a pasta night and an indulgent grilled cheese.
My family was skeptical the first time I made this but now it is the most-requested treat when I mention grilled cheese for dinner. It is the sandwich they want after a rainy soccer game or a tough day.
Ingredients
- Italian bread: Soft and fresh is essential for a crispy outside and fluffy center
- Butter: Softened for easy mixing and spreading so every bite gets golden and flavorful
- Fresh basil: For brightness choose leaves that are vibrant and avoid any brown spots
- Garlic: Minced fresh for bold taste never use jarred since it just does not deliver the same punch
- Parmesan cheese: Opt for finely grated versions to help the cheese stick to the buttery bread
- Bolognese sauce: Hearty sauce gives the gooey filling real depth use a chunky homemade or good quality jarred brand
- Angel hair pasta: Cooks quickly and stays tender even when reheated in the sandwich
- Fresh mozzarella: Soft slices melt into gorgeous puddles inside so go for the real deal for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Garlic Butter:
- In a bowl combine the softened butter with the minced garlic and chopped basil. Stir together until evenly combined and creamy. Take your time so the herbs and garlic are distributed all through the butter.
- Prepare the Bread:
- Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each piece of bread making sure to get all the way to the edges. Sprinkle finely grated Parmesan on top of the buttered side and press gently so it sticks firmly.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring salted water to a boil and drop in the angel hair pasta. Boil just until al dente about two to three minutes depending on the brand. Drain the noodles thoroughly so the filling will not turn out watery.
- Combine with Sauce:
- While the pasta is still hot toss it with the warmed Bolognese sauce in a bowl. Stir so every strand is coated and savory.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Lay one slice of bread buttered side down in front of you. Place three slices of fresh mozzarella over the bread to create a melty base. Pile the saucy pasta evenly on top of the cheese. Add the remaining mozzarella slices so there is cheese both above and below the pasta. Top with the second bread slice buttered side facing up.
- Grill Until Perfect:
- Heat a skillet over medium low. Crack the window if your home gets smokey. Gently lay the sandwich in the pan and cover it with a lid so the heat stays inside. Let it cook for five to six minutes until the bottom is golden. Carefully flip with a big spatula and continue grilling until both sides are crisp and the mozzarella has melted all the way through.
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Spaghetti grilled cheese always takes me right back to late movie nights growing up when my brother and I searched the fridge for any hint of pasta. The way the mozzarella melts around the noodles is my favorite part because every bite is full of both stretch and savory flavor.
Storage Tips
Wrap leftover sandwiches in foil and store in the fridge for up to two days. They reheat best in a hot oven or toaster oven brushed lightly with olive oil to bring the crisp back. Avoid microwaving if you prefer a crispy crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out Bolognese sauce for marinara if you want a vegetarian version. Any long noodle will work if that is what you have angel hair just cooks fastest. If you do not have fresh mozzarella use thinly sliced provolone or fontina for a similar melt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sandwich cut in half with a simple green salad dressed in lemon and olive oil. It is perfect with a bowl of tomato soup or alongside roasted broccoli for a cozy meal. Kids love it with marinara as a dip.
Cultural Context
While grilled cheese has classic American roots and pasta is all about Italian comfort, this recipe is pure joyful fusion. It is the kind of playful food that brings a little extra excitement to family night or college weekends and always sparks conversation around the table.
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Enjoy this comforting and clever fusion recipe to bring fun and deliciousness to your table!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, while Italian bread works best for flavor and texture, you can substitute with sourdough or any sturdy loaf that holds up well when grilled.
- → Is fresh mozzarella necessary for a good melt?
Fresh mozzarella delivers great stretch and creaminess. However, low-moisture mozzarella can be used for a similar effect if needed.
- → What pasta works best inside the sandwich?
Angel hair is ideal due to its light texture and quick cooking time, but thin spaghetti or capellini are suitable alternatives.
- → Can I swap out the Bolognese sauce?
Absolutely! Marinara or any favorite red sauce works well if you prefer a vegetarian or lighter option.
- → How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Drain the pasta very well and avoid over-saucing to maintain sandwich crispness during grilling.