Spaghetti Grilled Cheese Recipe

This spaghetti grilled cheese sandwich transforms leftover pasta into an irresistible comfort food mashup that both kids and adults will love. The combination of crispy, buttery bread with gooey cheese and savory spaghetti creates a meal that feels both familiar and excitingly different.

I created this recipe one night when my kids were craving both grilled cheese and pasta but I didn't have time to make both. The combination was such a hit that it's now requested at least once a week in our house.

Ingredients

• Italian bread: Thick slices work best as they hold up to the hearty filling without getting soggy
• Salted butter: Softened for easy spreading and creating that perfect golden crust
• Garlic powder: Adds an aromatic flavor that complements both the bread and pasta
• Leftover spaghetti with meat sauce: Warmed slightly to ensure it heats through properly in the sandwich
• Mozzarella cheese: Provides that classic stretchy cheese pull that makes grilled cheese sandwiches so satisfying
• Provolone cheese: Adds a slightly sharper flavor that pairs beautifully with the pasta sauce
• Parmesan cheese: Creates an incredible crispy exterior when pressed into the buttered bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the garlic butter:

Mix softened butter with garlic powder until well combined. This flavored butter is what gives your sandwich that restaurant quality taste. Make sure your butter is soft enough to spread easily but not melted, as you want it to stay on the bread rather than soaking in.

Create the Parmesan crust:

Spread the garlic butter generously on one side of each bread slice, then press grated Parmesan cheese onto the buttered sides. The Parmesan will toast and crisp up in the pan, creating an incredible textural contrast to the soft filling. Be sure to press it gently so it adheres well to the butter.

Assemble the sandwich:

With the unbuttered sides facing up, layer shredded mozzarella on one slice, then add a portion of warmed spaghetti, and top with provolone cheese. The cheese placement is strategic here first layer acts as a barrier to prevent the bread from getting soggy, while the top layer helps bind everything together.

Cook to golden perfection:

Place the sandwich butter side down in a preheated skillet over medium heat. Cook for approximately 3 minutes per side, adjusting heat as needed to prevent burning. Cover the pan for about a minute to ensure the cheese melts completely while maintaining that crispy exterior.

Slice and serve:

Remove the sandwich from the pan and let it rest for just 30 seconds. This brief resting period allows the cheese to set slightly so it doesn't all run out when you cut it. Slice diagonally for the most impressive cheese pull and serve immediately while hot.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the crispy Parmesan crust. I discovered this technique by accident when some grated Parmesan fell onto the buttered side of my bread, and it created such a deliciously crispy texture that I've incorporated it into every grilled cheese I've made since.

Leftover Magic

This sandwich represents the best kind of kitchen creativity using leftovers in ways that make them feel brand new. The texture transformation is what makes this work so well pasta that might be slightly soft from refrigeration gets new life when nestled between crispy bread and melty cheese. I find that spaghetti with meat sauce works particularly well because the rich sauce infuses the cheese as it melts, but almost any pasta dish can work here.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this hearty sandwich with a simple green salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette to cut through the richness. The acidity provides a perfect counterbalance to the cheesy goodness. If you're serving this for dinner, a small cup of tomato soup on the side creates a nostalgic combo that feels like a complete meal. For an Italian-inspired lunch spread, add some marinated vegetables like artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers on the side.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your sandwich is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, lower your heat and cover the pan. The steam created under the lid will help melt the cheese without burning the bread. If your spaghetti is very saucy, consider draining it slightly on paper towels before adding it to the sandwich. Too much moisture can make the bread soggy before it has a chance to crisp up properly.

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This recipe will inspire you to get creative with your leftovers, transforming humble ingredients into something truly extraordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of bread for this sandwich?

Yes! While Italian bread works wonderfully, you can use sourdough, brioche, or any sturdy bread that can hold the filling.

→ What cheeses work best for this recipe?

Mozzarella and provolone provide a great melt and flavor, but you can experiment with cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack.

→ Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the meat sauce for marinara or any vegetarian tomato sauce.

→ How can I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Be sure to warm the spaghetti and pat it dry if it's too saucy. Cooking the sandwich over medium heat helps achieve a crunchy crust without over-steaming the bread.

→ What sides can I serve with this sandwich?

Pair it with a fresh salad, tomato soup, or roasted veggies for a complete and satisfying meal!