Last updated on February 15th, 2023 at 12:25 pm
Regarding comfort food, few dishes can beat a classic grilled cheese sandwich. And when you pair it with marinara sauce, you have a winning combination of gooey melted cheese and tangy tomato sauce.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a cozy dinner, this grilled cheese sandwich with marinara sauce will surely hit the spot.
The Secret to the Perfect Grilled Cheese
There are a few critical elements to the perfect grilled cheese sandwich. First, start with high-quality bread. Soft white bread is classic, but you can use sourdough or whole wheat bread for a more substantial sandwich.
Next, choose your cheese wisely. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella is a common choice, but you can also use Swiss, brie, or any other cheese you prefer. Finally, make sure to use enough cheese – you want the cheese to be the show’s star!
How to Make a Grilled Cheese Sandwich With Marinara Sauce
This mouth-watering twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich is effortless to prepare and elevates the flavor profile to a new level. This grilled cheese with marinara sauce will become a new favorite with a crisp exterior and melted, gooey cheese inside.
The marinara sauce adds a tangy and savory taste that will have your taste buds dancing. Enjoy a delicious and upgraded version of the classic grilled cheese sandwich.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich With Marinara Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 Slices Bread
- 2 Slices Cheese
- 2 Tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 1/4 Cup Marinara Sauce
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
- Add cheese slices on top of the bread in the skillet.
- Spoon marinara sauce on top of the cheese.
- Place the other slice of bread, buttered side up, on top of the marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on top of the bread.
- Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes on each side.
- Serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to use any bread you prefer for this recipe, but a sturdy white or whole-grain bread is recommended.
- For the cheese, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or any other cheese of your choice.
- Store-bought marinara sauce can be used conveniently, but you can also make your own if desired.
- You can add ingredients to the sandwich, such as sliced tomato, avocado, or cooked bacon.
- The sandwich can be made in a pan or on a griddle, or even in a panini press if you have one.
- Cook each side of the sandwich for 3-5 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- This sandwich is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, use vegetarian cheese and marinara sauce.
- Spreadable butter or margarine can be used instead of regular butter if that’s what you have.
- Serve the sandwich with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
Reasons You Should Add Marinara Sauce to Your Grilled Cheese
While a classic grilled cheese sandwich is delicious, adding marinara sauce takes the flavor to the next level.
As a bonus, marinara sauce is a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, making this comfort food slightly healthier.
Tips When Making
1. Use proper bread
Choose a sturdy bread that will hold up to the cheese and sauce, like sourdough or thick-cut white bread.
2.Use good-quality cheese
A more flavorful sandwich is a high-quality cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend.
3. Warm the marinara sauce
Before adding the marinara sauce to the sandwich, heat it up in a small saucepan over medium heat. This will help the sauce spread evenly and prevent the bread from getting soggy.
4. Spread the sauce
Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce on one side of each slice of bread.
5. Cheese placement
Place the cheese on the bread slices, on top of the marinara sauce, so it melts evenly.
6. Choose the right pan
Use a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat to cook the sandwich. A well-seasoned cast iron pan can also work.
7. Add butter
Spread a small amount of butter on the outside of each slice of bread before cooking. This will help the bread get crispy and golden brown.
8. Cook low and slow
Don’t rush the cooking process; simmer the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy and golden brown.
9. Serve hot
Serve the grilled cheese sandwich out of the pan for maximum enjoyment.
10. Experiment
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your grilled cheese and marinara sauce. Try adding other ingredients like herbs, spices, or vegetables for a unique twist on the classic dish.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich With Marinara Sauce FAQ
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Any bread works well, but sturdy white or whole-grain bread is best.
Can I use any cheese for this sandwich?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Cheddar, mozzarella, and Swiss cheese are common choices.
Can I use the store-bought marinara sauce for this recipe?
Yes, you can use the store-bought marinara sauce for convenience.
Can I add any additional ingredients to this sandwich?
You can add ingredients like sliced tomato, avocado, or cooked bacon.
Can I make this sandwich differently, such as in a panini press?
You can make this sandwich in a panini press or on a griddle.
How long do I cook the sandwich?
Cook each side of the sandwich for 3-5 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Can I freeze this sandwich?
Freezing this sandwich is not recommended, as it will become soggy when thawed.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes one serving.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian by using vegetarian cheese and marinara sauce?
You can make this recipe vegetarian by using vegetarian cheese and marinara sauce.
Can I use spreadable butter or margarine instead of regular butter?
Yes, you can use spreadable butter or margarine if that’s what you have.
Final Thoughts when making this Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A grilled cheese sandwich with marinara sauce is the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for any time of day.
By using the right bread, good quality cheese, warming the marinara sauce, spreading it evenly on the bread, and cooking the sandwich low and slow in a non-stick pan or skillet, you can achieve a crispy and golden exterior with a melted and gooey interior.
Don’t forget to serve it hot and get creative with your ingredients if you want to try something new.
This recipe is a quick and easy way to elevate a classic dish. Whether you’re a fan of classic grilled cheese or looking for a new and exciting twist, this recipe will satisfy you. So why not try it today and enjoy the delicious combination of crispy bread, melted cheese, and tangy marinara sauce?
