Spaghetti Grilled Cheese Delight

This indulgent Spaghetti Grilled Cheese Melt transforms leftover pasta into a comforting sandwich that combines two beloved comfort foods. The crispy garlic bread exterior gives way to gooey melted mozzarella and pasta coated in rich Bolognese sauce for a deliciously satisfying meal.

I created this recipe after a Sunday dinner when we had extra spaghetti Bolognese. My teenagers were skeptical at first but now request this sandwich regularly when they spot pasta leftovers in the fridge.

Ingredients

• Italian bread: Slices thick enough to contain the filling yet soft enough to compress when grilled
• Unsalted butter: Allows you to control the saltiness especially when paired with Parmesan
• Fresh basil: Adds bright aromatic notes that complement the rich sauce
• Garlic cloves: Minced finely to distribute flavor throughout the butter mixture
• Parmesan cheese: Creates a crispy exterior crust that adds texture
• Bolognese sauce: Works best when slightly thick to prevent sogginess
• Angel hair pasta: Cooks quickly and integrates well with the sauce
• Fresh mozzarella: Provides that perfect cheese pull that makes this sandwich Instagram worthy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Garlic Butter:

Thoroughly mix minced garlic with chopped basil and softened butter in a small bowl. Ensure every bit of butter is infused with the aromatic flavors. The butter should be room temperature but not melted for easy spreading.

Create Parmesan Crust:

Spread the garlic butter mixture in an even layer covering one side of each bread slice completely to the edges. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the buttered surfaces pressing gently so it adheres well. This creates a savory crust that will become golden and crispy.

Cook Pasta Properly:

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil before adding salt. Cook angel hair pasta for exactly the time indicated on the package for al dente texture. Drain thoroughly shaking the colander several times to remove excess water which would make your sandwich soggy.

Combine Pasta And Sauce:

Mix the hot drained pasta with Bolognese sauce immediately while the pasta is still warm. Use tongs or two forks to ensure every strand is evenly coated. The warm pasta will absorb some of the sauce flavors making it more delicious.

Assemble The Sandwich:

Place one bread slice Parmesan side down on your work surface. Layer three slices of mozzarella evenly distributed then add the pasta mixture in a compact even layer. Top with remaining mozzarella and close with the second bread slice Parmesan side facing up.

Perfect Slow Toasting:

Heat a skillet over medium low heat until warm but not hot. Place the sandwich in the center and cover with a lid to trap heat. Toast for a full 5 minutes until deeply golden checking occasionally. Flip with a wide spatula applying gentle pressure and cook covered until cheese fully melts.

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The fresh mozzarella is truly the star ingredient here. Unlike pre shredded cheese it melts into that stretchy texture that creates the dramatic cheese pull when you take your first bite. I still remember my daughter's face lighting up the first time she pulled apart her sandwich and the cheese stretched nearly two feet high.

Perfecting Your Pasta to Bread Ratio

The key to a successful spaghetti grilled cheese lies in the proper proportion of pasta to bread. Too much pasta and your sandwich becomes unwieldy and messy. Too little and you lose the essence of the dish. I recommend using about 1/2 cup of sauced pasta per sandwich, spread in an even layer. Press it down slightly with the back of a spoon before adding the top layer of cheese. This creates a compact filling that stays put when you bite into the sandwich.

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Make Ahead Options

This sandwich works beautifully as a make ahead lunch option. You can prepare several sandwiches through the assembly stage then wrap them individually in parchment paper and refrigerate overnight. In the morning simply heat your pan and cook as directed. The chilled sandwich actually holds together better during cooking as the fillings have had time to set. Perfect for busy weekday mornings when you want to pack something special for lunch.

Pairing Suggestions

While this sandwich is substantial enough to stand alone as a meal I find it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce. For a casual dinner party serve smaller portions as an appetizer alongside a glass of medium bodied red wine like Chianti or Montepulciano. The tomato notes in the Bolognese complement these wines beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, feel free to substitute any bread you prefer, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or brioche for different textures and flavors.

→ What can I use instead of Bolognese sauce?

For a twist, you can use marinara, Alfredo, or even pesto sauce as a filling for your sandwich.

→ How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Make sure the pasta is well-drained and avoid overloading the sandwich with sauce. Toasting on medium-low heat helps achieve a crisp exterior.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

The sandwich is best served immediately, but you can prep elements like the garlic butter and cooked pasta ahead of time for convenience.

→ What cheese alternatives can I use?

While fresh mozzarella is ideal, provolone, fontina, or Gouda can also work well to complement the flavors.

→ Can I add extra toppings?

Definitely! Consider adding sliced tomatoes, spinach, or even cooked sausage for an extra layer of flavor.