Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1
Sometimes comfort food needs an upgrade, and this spinach and ricotta grilled cheese delivers exactly that. During a particularly busy weeknight last spring, I found myself craving something more sophisticated than the basic grilled cheese of my childhood. With leftover ricotta from weekend cooking and some frozen spinach in my freezer, inspiration struck. The result was this golden, crispy sandwich that captures all the beloved flavors of spinach cannelloni in a handheld format.
Why This Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite
Italian Comfort in Every Bite
This isn’t your average grilled cheese – it’s a celebration of classic Italian flavors wrapped in perfectly toasted sourdough. The combination of creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and aromatic herbs creates a filling that rivals any fancy restaurant appetizer. Moreover, the melted mozzarella adds that essential cheese pull we all crave.
Ready in Under 10 Minutes
Busy schedules don’t have to mean sacrificing flavor. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary in just minutes. Additionally, most ingredients are pantry staples, making this perfect for impromptu lunch cravings or quick dinner solutions.
Nutritious Yet Indulgent
Unlike traditional grilled cheese, this version packs a nutritional punch with protein-rich ricotta and iron-loaded spinach. The herbs and garlic provide antioxidants while keeping calories reasonable. Furthermore, using reduced-fat ingredients means you can indulge without the guilt.
Versatile and Customizable
This recipe serves as an excellent base for countless variations. Whether you prefer different cheeses, want to add sun-dried tomatoes, or swap herbs, the possibilities are endless. The technique remains the same while allowing for personal creativity.
Essential Ingredients
For the Ricotta Filling
- 1/2 clove garlic, crushed (fresh garlic makes all the difference)
- 1/6 cup ricotta cheese (reduced-fat works beautifully)
- 1/8 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed (squeeze out excess water)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (adds sharp, nutty flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt and cracked pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian mixed herbs (or oregano and basil mix)
For Assembly
- 1/8 cup grated light mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced)
- 2 thick slices sourdough bread (the foundation of great grilled cheese)
- 1/2 tablespoon butter (light or reduced-fat spread works well)
For Serving
- 1/4 cup pasta sauce (passata or tomato sauce for dipping)
Shopping Tips
Choose day-old sourdough for better texture and easier slicing. Fresh mozzarella creates an incredibly creamy melt, while pre-shredded offers convenience. Always squeeze thawed spinach thoroughly to prevent soggy sandwiches.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Aromatic Base
Heat a medium-sized pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray, then fry the crushed garlic until fragrant, approximately 30-60 seconds. This brief cooking time releases the garlic’s essential oils without burning. Remove from heat immediately and transfer the garlic to a small bowl, setting the pan aside for later use.
Creating the Ricotta Mixture
Add the ricotta cheese, thawed spinach, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to the bowl with the pan-fried garlic. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture appears uniform. The spinach should be evenly distributed throughout the creamy ricotta base.
Assembling the Perfect Sandwich
Spread butter on one side of each bread slice – this will become the golden exterior. On the unbuttered sides, divide the ricotta mixture in half and spread evenly. Next, divide the mozzarella cheese and layer it over the ricotta mixture on both slices. Create a sandwich by placing the slices together with buttered sides facing outward.
Achieving Golden Perfection
Return the reserved pan to medium heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwich in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. The key is patience – rushing leads to burnt bread with unmelted cheese. Flip once when the first side achieves golden-brown perfection. The sandwich is ready when both sides are crispy and the cheese has melted completely.
Final Touches
Remove from heat and let rest for 30 seconds before slicing. Sprinkle with extra Italian herbs if desired, and serve immediately with warmed pasta sauce for dipping.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Classic Presentation
Slice the sandwich diagonally and serve on a warm plate alongside a small bowl of heated pasta sauce. The diagonal cut reveals the beautiful layers and makes dipping easier.
Elegant Lunch Option
Cut into quarters and arrange on a plate with a small salad of mixed greens dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. This transforms the sandwich into a sophisticated lunch that’s perfect for entertaining.
Comfort Food Pairing
Serve with a bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combination. The Italian flavors complement classic tomato soup beautifully.
Appetizer Style
Cut into small triangles and serve as an appetizer at parties. Provide small bowls of different dipping sauces like pesto, marinara, or garlic aioli for variety.
Delicious Recipe Variations
Mediterranean Twist
Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and fresh basil to the ricotta mixture. Replace the mozzarella with feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version that’s equally delicious.
Meat Lover’s Version
Incorporate diced prosciutto or salami into the ricotta mixture for added protein and flavor. This creates a more substantial sandwich perfect for heartier appetites.
Vegan Alternative
Substitute the ricotta with cashew cream or vegan ricotta, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and choose plant-based mozzarella. The result is surprisingly similar to the original.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ricotta mixture. For extra heat, spread a thin layer of sriracha or hot sauce on the bread before adding the filling.
Gourmet Upgrade
Use truffle oil instead of regular olive oil for the garlic, and add a sprinkle of truffle salt. This elevates the sandwich to restaurant-quality status.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing the Filling
The ricotta mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully, often resulting in even better taste.
Freezing Options
Assembled sandwiches can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to one month. Cook directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to each side. This makes for an excellent quick meal option.
Batch Cooking
Double or triple the ricotta mixture recipe and use throughout the week for multiple sandwiches. Store in an airtight container and use within three days for best quality.
Important Notes
Butter Distribution Secret
Spreading butter on the outer sides of the sandwich is crucial for achieving that golden, crunchy exterior. Don’t skip this step – it’s what separates good grilled cheese from great grilled cheese.
Alternative Cooking Methods
A sandwich press works wonderfully for this recipe. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden and heated through. The pressure creates an even crispier exterior while ensuring thorough melting.
Spinach Preparation
Always squeeze thawed frozen spinach thoroughly to remove excess water. Soggy spinach leads to soggy sandwiches, which defeats the purpose of that perfect crispy exterior.
Temperature Control
Medium heat is essential for proper cooking. High heat burns the bread before the cheese melts, while low heat creates tough, chewy results. Find that sweet spot for perfect results every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Use about 1/2 cup of fresh spinach, chopped finely. Sauté it briefly with the garlic until wilted, then proceed with the recipe. Fresh spinach provides a slightly different texture but equally delicious results.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese works as a substitute, though drain it first and blend until smooth. Cream cheese mixed with a little milk also works, though it creates a richer filling. Each alternative brings its own unique character to the sandwich.
How do I prevent the bread from burning?
The key is proper heat control and timing. Medium heat allows the interior to heat through before the exterior burns. If your bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly and cover the pan for the last minute of cooking.
Can I make this sandwich in advance?
While best served immediately, you can assemble the sandwich up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerate. Cook just before serving, adding an extra minute per side since it starts cold. However, the crispy texture is best when cooked fresh.
What type of bread works best?
Sourdough provides the ideal balance of flavor and texture, but thick-sliced Italian bread, ciabatta, or even a good whole grain bread work well. Avoid thin slices that can’t support the generous filling.
How do I know when the cheese is properly melted?
Gently press the sandwich with a spatula – it should feel soft and give slightly. You can also lift one corner with a spatula to check for melting. The mozzarella should be completely melted and beginning to ooze slightly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sautéed mushrooms make excellent additions. Just ensure any added vegetables are well-drained to prevent sogginess.
What’s the best pasta sauce for dipping?
A simple marinara works beautifully, but try pesto, arrabbiata, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce for variety. Warm the sauce slightly before serving for the best experience.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 555
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 2,493mg
- Calcium: 378mg
- Iron: 7mg
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.