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There is something magical about pressing a cheesy grilled sandwich in a skillet and hearing it sizzle but add saucy spaghetti right into the filling and you have a whole new level of comfort food This spaghetti grilled cheese sandwich delivers twirly noodles Bolognese sauce and molten mozzarella all tucked into crispy buttery garlic bread Every bite is saucy carb heaven perfect for lunch or a wacky weeknight dinner
The first time I made this sandwich I was skeptical but after one gooey bite my family begged for it again It is always a favorite during movie nights or when my husband wants something totally over the top for dinner
Ingredients
- Soft Italian bread: The right bread is key Use bakery fresh slices that are not too thin or they will fall apart
- Butter: Adds flavor and crisps the bread Choose real butter for the best taste and golden crust
- Fresh basil: Chopped basil brings brightness that balances out all the cheese
- Fresh garlic: Do not skip this Use fresh minced cloves for punchy Italian flavor
- Parmesan cheese: Grated on the outside of the bread forms a salty crispy crust Use real Parmigiano Reggiano if you can
- Prepared Bolognese sauce: Any meaty tomato sauce works Make sure it is thick and hearty or your sandwich may get soggy
- Angel hair pasta: Light and delicate strands that nestle perfectly into the filling Avoid overcooking so the noodles do not become mushy
- Fresh mozzarella cheese: These creamy slices melt beautifully and create that perfect cheese pull
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Garlic Butter:
- Combine the softened butter chopped basil minced garlic and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl Mash together until everything is evenly mixed and fragrant This will be spread on the bread for flavor and crispiness
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil Add the angel hair pasta and stir to prevent sticking Cook just until al dente usually about two to three minutes immediately drain thoroughly so there is no excess water
- Prepare the Spaghetti Filling:
- Transfer your hot drained pasta to a medium bowl Pour in the Bolognese sauce and toss with tongs until all the noodles are well coated Taste and add salt if needed
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Take two bread slices Cover one side of each with the garlic butter mixture Press half of the Parmesan gently into each buttered side Place one slice butterside down then lay on three slices of mozzarella Spoon all of the saucy pasta on top Add the last mozzarella slices then top with the other bread slice butter side facing up
- Grill the Sandwich:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over mediumlow heat Place the sandwich in the pan cover with a lid Cook undisturbed for five to six minutes until the bottom is crisp golden and the cheese is starting to melt Flip gently cover again and cook the other side until the outside is golden brown and everything inside is bubbly
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When I was a kid we combined any leftover pasta into sandwiches as a silly snack Now my favorite part is the crispy Parmesan crust on the bread My kids especially love when the cheese oozes out the side and gets extra browned in the skillet
Storage Tips
This sandwich is best eaten fresh for maximal crispiness but if you need to save leftovers wrap in foil and chill up to one day Reheat in a toaster oven or dry skillet to recrisp the crust rather than microwaving which softens the bread Leftover filling can also be kept separately and assembled into a sandwich right before eating
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have angel hair try thin spaghetti or linguine Swap Bolognese for another hearty tomato sauce like marinara or even a meatless variety For a spicier kick stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce Use sliced provolone or fontina if mozzarella is not available
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad for balance or dip your sandwich in extra warm Bolognese sauce for ultra decadence Cut into strips for kids or make mini versions for party snacks Sometimes I set out a small bowl of mixed Italian olives or fresh fruit on the side
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Cultural Context
This recipe is not traditionally Italian but it brings together the favorite flavors of ItalianAmerican households Spaghetti sandwiches are a known diner food in some parts of the Midwest where leftovers become the nextdays lunch The twist of grilled cheese makes it even more irresistible and fun to eat
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different pasta type?
Yes, while angel hair cooks quickly and blends well, other small pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine can work.
- → What cheeses work besides mozzarella?
Fontina, provolone, or even a mild cheddar can substitute for mozzarella to provide a different flavor profile.
- → Is homemade Bolognese necessary?
Prepared or leftover Bolognese works perfectly, though homemade will add a richer depth of flavor.
- → How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Drain pasta thoroughly and use just enough sauce to coat—avoid excess liquid in the filling.
- → Can this be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use a meatless marinara or vegetarian Bolognese for the filling.