Save The smell alone stopped me in my tracks at that pub in Chicago some years back. I could not figure out what made their grilled cheese so impossibly crispy and STRINGY until I saw the kitchen prep line. They were literally stacking cooked mozzarella sticks inside the sandwiches like some beautiful culinary crime.
My roommate walked in while I was testing this recipe and actually gasped when I cut into the first sandwich. The cheese had oozed out and crisped against the pan like lacy golden frills. We ate standing up at the counter because waiting for plates felt like punishment.
Ingredients
- Mozzarella cheese slices: These create the melty foundation that holds everything together
- Shredded mozzarella: Fills in all the little gaps for maximum coverage
- Cooked mozzarella sticks: The star of the show bringing that crunchy breaded texture inside
- Butter: Get it soft and spreadable for even golden browning
- White or sourdough bread: Something sturdy enough to handle all this cheese
- Marinara sauce: Warm on the side for that whole mozzarella stick experience
Instructions
- Get your pan ready:
- Set a large skillet over medium heat and let it warm up while you prep
- Butter your bread:
- Spread soft butter on one side of each slice making sure to cover all the way to edges
- Build the first layer:
- Place two slices butter side down in your pan and layer two cheese slices on each
- Add the shredded cheese:
- Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella over each sandwich
- Place the mozzarella sticks:
- Arrange 2 cooked mozzarella sticks on top of each sandwich
- Top it off:
- Place remaining bread slices on top butter side up
- Grill to golden perfection:
- Cook 2 to 3 minutes per side pressing gently until bread is golden brown and cheese melts completely
- Rest and serve:
- Let sandwiches sit for 1 minute before slicing and serve with warm marinara
Pin it This became our Sunday tradition during finals week senior year. Something about the nostalgia of mozzarella sticks combined with comfort food grilled cheese just made everything better.
Getting That Perfect Crust
Mayonnaise instead of butter sounds strange until you try it and realize it creates this restaurant quality crust. The oil and egg yolks conduct heat differently and you get this beautiful even browning that butter sometimes struggles with on medium heat.
Cheese Selection Secrets
Low moisture mozzarella slices work better than fresh because they melt without releasing too much water. You want that cheese to get stretchy not soupy. The shredded mozzarella should be cold when you sprinkle it so it does not clump together.
Make It Your Own
The basic formula holds up beautifully to all kinds of variations. Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes between layers adds a whole new dimension. Pepperoni slices get crispy and amazing inside. You could even do a pizza version with sauce right in the sandwich instead of on the side.
- Try garlic bread instead of plain for extra flavor
- A slice of provolone adds sharpness that cuts through all the mild mozzarella
- Letting the sandwich rest before cutting is not optional for clean slices
Pin it These sandwiches hit that perfect spot between childhood comfort and something just indulgent enough to feel special.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh mozzarella sticks instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh mozzarella sticks work well. Make sure to cook them according to your preferred method before assembling the sandwich to ensure they're warm and slightly crispy on the outside.
- → What's the best way to prevent the bread from burning?
Keep your heat at medium and don't rush the grilling process. Press gently with a spatula and grill for 2-3 minutes per side. This allows the cheese to melt without the bread charring.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Assemble the sandwich without grilling, wrap it, and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Grill when ready to eat. Note that cooked mozzarella sticks are best used fresh, so prepare them just before grilling the sandwich.
- → What bread works best for this sandwich?
White or sourdough bread are ideal as they crisp beautifully on the outside while staying soft inside. Whole grain works too, though it may require slightly longer grilling time due to thickness.
- → How do I make the crust extra crispy?
Substitute mayonnaise for butter on the bread's exterior for a crispier, golden crust. Some cooks also add a light spray of cooking oil for extra crispness and browning.
- → Is marinara sauce necessary?
While not essential, marinara sauce complements the richness of the melted cheese beautifully. You can also serve with other dipping sauces like garlic aioli or pizza sauce for variety.