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Italian-inspired Grilled Cheese combines comfort food classics into one mouthwatering sandwich. These treats blend the rich flavors of white pizza with the golden-brown goodness of a perfectly toasted cheese sandwich. A trio of cheeses melts into an irresistible gooey filling between crispy, buttered bread slices, hitting the spot when you're craving both pizza and a sandwich at once.
I came up with these sandwiches during a stormy afternoon when I couldn't decide between pizza and something warm and cozy. The way the herbs mixed with the melting cheeses reminded me of my go-to Italian spot, and now my kids ask for them all the time.
Ingredients
- Ricotta or cottage cheese: Makes a smooth, creamy foundation just like white pizza.
- Canola or olive oil: Helps everything blend together and adds a bit of flavor.
- Granulated or minced garlic: Gives that punch of flavor you can't do without.
- Dried basil: Adds that Italian kick everyone loves.
- Dried oregano: Brings that pizza-shop taste right to your kitchen.
- Salt: Wakes up all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds just a touch of spice.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty punch.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates those amazing cheese pulls when melted.
- Sandwich bread or sourdough: Makes the crunchy outside layer.
- Softened butter: Helps the bread turn crispy and golden.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix Your Cheesy Filling:
- Smooth out cottage cheese in your food processor. Put it in a bowl and stir in oil, garlic, oregano, basil, pepper, and salt. Add Parmesan, then gently mix in the mozzarella.
- Get Your Bread Ready:
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Put Everything Together:
- Warm up a skillet over medium heat. Put half your bread slices in with butter facing down. Spread cheese mix on each slice, then top with another piece of bread, butter side up.
- Cook Till Golden:
- Let sandwiches cook about 3-4 minutes until they're gold on the bottom. Flip them carefully and cook another 2-3 minutes until all the cheese gets melty.
- Let Cool and Enjoy:
- Give sandwiches a minute to rest before cutting them corner to corner. Serve them while they're still warm.
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My littlest one can't get enough of the garlic in these sandwiches – she swears it's what makes them taste 'just like pizza night.' We've played around with different amounts, and fresh garlic works best, especially if you let it sit in the cheese mixture for half an hour before cooking.
Three Cheeses That Work Magic Together
The cottage cheese or ricotta forms a soft base, while Parmesan brings depth and mozzarella gives that stretchy pull we all love. Together, they create a rich but balanced filling that tastes incredible.
Choosing The Right Bread
Sourdough gives a nice tangy flavor, but thick sandwich bread holds up really well too. You can also try ciabatta or Italian loaf for an extra touch that matches the pizza-style filling.
Serving Suggestions
These sandwiches go great with a bowl of simple tomato soup for dipping or a light arugula salad with lemon dressing to balance the richness. In winter months, try serving with a bowl of veggie-packed minestrone for a filling meal.
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I've tried so many grilled cheese recipes through the years, but this pizza-inspired version always stands out. There's something special about how the herbs heat up with the butter and cheese, filling your kitchen with the most amazing smell. Whether I'm making a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner, these sandwiches always bring happy faces around my table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is it okay to skip the cheese blend and only use mozzarella?
- You can, but combining it with cottage cheese or ricotta and Parmesan gives it that creamy texture and richer taste you’ll miss out on with just mozzarella.
- → What’s the best bread to choose for these sandwiches?
- Thicker options like sourdough or Italian bread work well since they hold the cheesy filling without falling apart or getting soggy.
- → Can I toss in extra toppings for variety?
- Sure! Fresh basil, pesto, tomato, or even prosciutto can add more flavor and texture to the sandwich.
- → How can I tell when the sandwich is perfectly cooked?
- Look for a golden-brown, crispy crust and fully melted cheese inside. Medium heat is key to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- → Can these sandwiches be prepped ahead of time?
- You can prepare the cheese mix up to a day in advance, which actually enhances the taste. Just grill the sandwiches fresh for best results.
- → What’s a good side dish to serve with this sandwich?
- You can pair it with tomato soup, a salad, or even dip it in marinara sauce. Want a full Italian vibe? Add some olives on the side.