Spaghetti Grilled Cheese

This spaghetti grilled cheese sandwich transforms leftover pasta into a mouthwatering handheld meal that combines two comfort food classics. The crispy, garlic-butter exterior gives way to a gooey center of pasta, bolognese sauce, and melted mozzarella for an unforgettable twist on a lunchtime favorite.

I first created this sandwich when looking for creative ways to use leftover spaghetti. My family was skeptical at first but now specifically request I make extra pasta just so we can enjoy these sandwiches the next day.

Ingredients

• Soft Italian Bread: Provides the perfect balance between structure and softness for holding the filling while toasting beautifully
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create that golden brown crust we all crave in a grilled cheese
• Basil: Brings fresh flavor that enhances the Italian profile of the sandwich
• Garlic: Infuses the butter with aromatic flavor that permeates every bite
• Finely Grated Parmesan: Creates a savory crust on the exterior of the bread
• Bolognese Sauce: Provides rich flavor and binds the pasta together
• Angel Hair Pasta: Works best because its delicate texture integrates perfectly with the melted cheese
• Fresh Mozzarella: Offers that quintessential cheese pull and mild flavor that complements the bold sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the Garlic Herb Butter:

Mix room temperature butter with minced garlic and chopped basil in a small bowl until well combined. This aromatic spread is what elevates this sandwich beyond an ordinary grilled cheese.

Prepare the Bread:

Spread the garlic herb butter mixture on one side of each slice of Italian bread. Sprinkle half tablespoon of grated Parmesan onto each buttered side, gently pressing it into the butter. This creates an incredible crispy, cheesy crust when cooked.

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook until just al dente. Remember to slightly undercook the pasta as it will continue softening in the hot sauce.

Mix Pasta and Sauce:

Drain the pasta thoroughly and immediately stir it into half cup of warm bolognese sauce, ensuring every strand is coated. The pasta should be completely incorporated into the sauce but not swimming in it.

Assemble the Sandwich:

Place one slice of bread Parmesan side down on your work surface. Layer three slices of fresh mozzarella to cover the bread. Spread the sauced pasta evenly across the cheese, then add another layer of mozzarella. Top with the second slice of bread, Parmesan side facing up.

Cook the Sandwich:

Heat a skillet over medium low heat without adding any additional fat. Place the assembled sandwich in the pan and cover with a lid. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes without moving or pressing the sandwich until the bottom is perfectly golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwich, cover again, and toast the second side until equally golden and the cheese has completely melted.

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The garlic butter Parmesan crust is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered it accidentally when trying to recreate a restaurant sandwich, and the crispy, savory exterior it creates elevates this sandwich from good to unforgettable. My children now call it "pizza sandwich" and request it weekly.

Perfect Pairings

This spaghetti grilled cheese is substantial enough to serve as a meal on its own, but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The bright acidity cuts through the richness of the sandwich. For a heartier meal, serve alongside tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience. The tangy soup provides the perfect contrast to the cheesy, garlicky sandwich.

Variations to Try

While this recipe specifies angel hair pasta and bolognese sauce, the concept works with virtually any pasta and sauce combination. Try using leftover fettuccine alfredo for a white sauce version, or penne with marinara for a lighter option. You can also incorporate vegetables like sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers between the layers of cheese. For meat lovers, adding a thin layer of pepperoni or prosciutto creates a pizza-inspired variation.

Make-Ahead Tips

For busy weeknights, prepare components in advance. The garlic herb butter can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring to room temperature before using. You can also pre-cook the pasta and mix with sauce a day ahead, storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to make the sandwiches, gently reheat the pasta mixture in the microwave before assembling.

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This twist on a grilled cheese is quick, creative, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any day of the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different pasta shapes for this sandwich?

Yes, though angel hair works best because it's thin and pliable. Spaghetti or thin linguine would be good alternatives. Avoid large shapes like penne or rigatoni as they would make the sandwich difficult to eat.

→ What can I substitute for bolognese sauce?

Marinara, arrabbiata, or vodka sauce would all work beautifully. For a simpler version, you could even use a quality jarred pasta sauce. The key is choosing a sauce that's not too watery to prevent soggy bread.

→ Can I prepare any elements ahead of time?

The pasta and sauce can be prepared ahead and refrigerated. The garlic-basil butter can also be made in advance. However, assemble and grill the sandwich just before serving for the best texture and melty cheese experience.

→ Why is cooking 'low and slow' important for this sandwich?

The low, slow cooking method allows the cheeses to melt completely while giving the bread time to develop a perfectly golden crust without burning. It also ensures the pasta in the center has time to warm through.

→ What sides pair well with this sandwich?

A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a nice acidic balance to the rich sandwich. Tomato soup is another classic pairing that complements the Italian flavors. For a more indulgent meal, garlic parmesan fries would be delicious.

→ Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use a vegetarian pasta sauce instead of bolognese. You could even add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers to the pasta mixture for extra flavor and texture.