Lasagna Grilled Cheese

Name: Lasagna Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ pound ground beef; 2 cups marinara sauce; ½ cup ricotta cheese; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter; 8 slices sourdough bread; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Posted on September 21, 2025

Main Dishes

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Indulge in a delightful Lasagna Grilled Cheese that brings the classic flavors of lasagna into a crispy, gooey sandwich. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a cozy gathering, this recipe highlights layers of seasoned ground beef and creamy cheeses nestled between slices of buttery sourdough. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavor and comforting textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-packed: Enjoy the robust taste of marinara and melted cheeses combined with perfectly seasoned ground beef.
Quick to prepare: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute cravings.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with a side salad or soup for a complete meal.
Kid-friendly: A fun twist on traditional grilled cheese that kids will love just as much as adults.
Comfort food at its best: Combines beloved lasagna ingredients into a warm sandwich that satisfies any comfort food craving.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Lasagna Grilled Cheese, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are the essentials you’ll need.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large skillet
Medium bowl
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook multiple sandwiches at once, ensuring even browning.
Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing ingredients like ricotta and parmesan without mess.
Spatula: Essential for flipping sandwiches gently without squishing them.

Ingredients

Mouth watering!! Indulge in a fantastic Lasagna Grilled Cheese sandwich with layers of ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta spread!

Ingredients:
– ½ pound ground beef
– 2 cups (514 g) marinara sauce, (divided)
– ½ cup (123 g) ricotta cheese
– ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, (grated)
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, (softened, divided)
– 8 slices sourdough bread
– 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, (shredded, divided)

How to Make Lasagna Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spatula while cooking. Drain any excess grease after cooking.

Step 2: Simmer with Marinara Sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to create an even mixture. This should yield about ½ cup of ricotta spread.

Step 4: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Spread ½ tablespoon of softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture. Spoon approximately ⅓ cup of the ground beef mixture over it and top with ¼ cup of mozzarella. Repeat this process with three more slices of bread.

Step 5: Top and Cook

Place one of the remaining slices of bread on top of each assembled sandwich with the buttered side facing up. Heat your large skillet over medium heat. Cook one or two sandwiches at a time for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy; ensure the cheese melts beautifully.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious Lasagna Grilled Cheese immediately alongside the remaining marinara sauce for dipping!

How to Serve Lasagna Grilled Cheese

Serving your Lasagna Grilled Cheese is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your sandwich and impress your guests.

Pair with Fresh Salad

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing, topped with croutons and parmesan.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast.

Add a Warm Soup

Tomato Basil Soup: A classic pairing that complements the richness of the sandwich while adding warmth.
Minestrone Soup: Hearty and packed with vegetables, this soup adds a nutritious touch to your meal.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

Extra Marinara Sauce: Perfect for dipping, this sauce echoes the flavors in your sandwich.
Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic spread that adds an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Lasagna Grilled Cheese

Creating the perfect Lasagna Grilled Cheese requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure every bite is delicious!

Bold Ground Beef Flavor: Season the beef well before cooking. Adding salt, pepper, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance its taste.
Even Cheese Distribution: Ensure equal amounts of cheese in each layer. This guarantees every bite is cheesy and satisfying.
Use Quality Bread: Choose fresh sourdough for a crispy crust. The right bread can make all the difference in texture.
Monitor Cooking Temperature: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the bread while ensuring cheese melts perfectly.
Let it Rest: Allow sandwiches to rest for a minute after cooking. This helps prevent cheese from spilling out when you cut into them.

Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Grilled Cheese

Complementing your Lasagna Grilled Cheese with side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter make for an indulgent side.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil add color and nutrients to your plate.
Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwich.
Pickles: A tangy pickle on the side offers a zesty crunch that pairs well with melted cheese.
Potato Chips: Crispy chips add a satisfying crunch and are easy to serve.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of savory goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Lasagna Grilled Cheese can be an exciting experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the seasoning: It’s crucial to season your ingredients well. Adding Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor of your meat and cheese layers.
Not draining the beef: Leaving excess grease in the skillet can make your sandwich soggy. Always drain the beef after cooking for a better texture.
Overstuffing the sandwich: While it can be tempting to add more filling, overstuffing can lead to messy sandwiches that don’t grill well. Stick to recommended amounts for optimal results.
Using cold ingredients: Make sure your cheeses are at room temperature before assembling. This helps them melt evenly and creates a gooey texture.
Neglecting the butter: A good buttery crust is essential for a perfect grilled cheese. Don’t skip buttering both sides of the bread generously.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow sandwiches to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Lasagna Grilled Cheese

Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Lasagna Grilled Cheese

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, then check. Add time as needed but be cautious as this may make the bread chewy.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, pressing down lightly with a spatula until warmed through, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lasagna Grilled Cheese?

Lasagna Grilled Cheese is a delicious fusion of classic lasagna ingredients layered between slices of grilled cheese. It combines savory ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses.

How do I customize my Lasagna Grilled Cheese?

You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or try different kinds of cheese such as gouda or cheddar for unique flavors.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute ground beef with sautéed vegetables or lentils and use plant-based cheese options.

How do I ensure my sandwich doesn’t get soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure to drain any excess grease from meat and avoid using too much sauce inside the sandwich.

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of bread like ciabatta or whole wheat for varied textures and flavors.

Conclusion

The Lasagna Grilled Cheese offers a delightful twist on two beloved dishes, making it perfect for dinner or lunch. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the cheesy goodness!