Lasagna Grilled Cheese Delight

This Lasagna Grilled Cheese is a delicious cross between two comfort food favorites, combining layers of savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta with crispy golden grilled bread. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of lasagna in a fun and easy handheld sandwich. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a sandwich the whole family will love, this recipe brings warmth and indulgence to the table in under 30 minutes.

I remember first making this during a chilly weeknight and my whole family devoured it before I could even plate it. Now it’s a go-to when I want something quick but special.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: half a pound, provides hearty protein and savory flavor, choose lean for less grease
• Marinara sauce: two cups divided, use a good quality or homemade sauce for rich tomato depth
• Ricotta cheese: half a cup, adds creamy texture and mild sweetness, opt for fresh and whole milk ricotta if possible
• Parmesan cheese: half a cup grated, packs umami punch and sharpness, fresh grated Parmesan makes a big difference
• Italian seasoning: half a teaspoon, blends herbs like oregano and basil for authentic Italian flavor
• Unsalted butter: four tablespoons softened divided, important for spreading on bread to get golden crispy crusts
• Sourdough bread: eight slices, sturdy bread that crisps wonderfully and holds the fillings well
• Mozzarella cheese: one cup shredded divided, melty and stretchy for that perfect grilled cheese experience, fresh shredded is best

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart using a spatula and cook for about five to seven minutes until the meat is evenly browned with no pink remaining. Drain off any excess grease to avoid soggy sandwiches. The goal is flavorful cooked beef with good texture but no excess fat.

Add Marinara Sauce:

Lower the heat to low. Pour in one cup of marinara sauce to the cooked beef and stir to combine. Let it gently simmer for two to three minutes. This step melds the flavors and warms the sauce. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Mix Ricotta Cheese:

In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning until well combined. This mixture adds a creamy, herby layer to the sandwich that balances the rich meat and sauce.

Prepare the Bread:

Spread half a tablespoon of softened butter evenly onto one side of each slice of sourdough bread. Be gentle but thorough to avoid tearing the bread. The buttered side will become the crispy golden exterior during grilling.

Assemble Sandwiches:

On the unbuttered side of four bread slices, spread about two tablespoons of the ricotta mixture. Then evenly spoon roughly one-third cup of the beef and marinara mixture on top of each. Sprinkle a quarter cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat. Repeat the layering with the remaining four slices of bread to complete four sandwiches.

Top Sandwiches:

Place the remaining buttered slices of bread on top of each sandwich, buttered side facing out. This creates the perfect grilled cheese configuration.

Cook Sandwiches:

Heat your large skillet over medium heat. Working one or two sandwiches at a time, place them carefully in the pan. Cook each side for about three to four minutes until the bread turns a deep golden brown and the cheese inside melts thoroughly. Use a spatula to flip gently to keep the sandwich intact.

Serve:

Serve immediately while warm with the remaining marinara sauce on the side for dipping. The combination of crunchy bread, melted cheese, and savory filling creates an irresistible feast.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is the ricotta mixture. It adds a layer of creaminess that elevates the sandwich to something special beyond a typical grilled cheese. I still recall the first time I made this for a game night and how quickly everyone reached for seconds. The gooey cheese with savory meat and tangy marinara always brings a smile.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container once fully cooled. They will keep in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, I like using a skillet to regain crispness or warming in the oven for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Using gluten-free bread works well if you need a gluten-free meal. Swap mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a different cheese flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh Caesar salad or crunchy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. Add a side of garlic bread if you want to lean into the Italian vibe. Extra marinara sauce or garlic aioli on the side makes fantastic dipping options.

This Lasagna Grilled Cheese perfectly marries crispy bread with all the rich, cheesy layers you love in traditional lasagna. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s great for weeknight dinners, game days, or whenever you want something warm and satisfying.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What ingredients are used in the sandwich?

Ground beef, marinara sauce, ricotta, parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, sourdough bread, and butter.

→ How is the sandwich cooked to ensure crispy bread and melted cheese?

It's cooked on medium heat using a skillet, flipping occasionally until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside melts thoroughly.

→ Can I customize the fillings?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or swapping cheeses with provolone or gouda works well.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to three days or freeze wrapped tightly for longer storage.

→ What are good side dishes or accompaniments?

Garlic bread, fresh salads, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, and roasted vegetables complement the sandwich nicely.

→ Is gluten-free bread an option?

Absolutely, gluten-free bread can be used as a tasty alternative without affecting the flavor.