Save It I came up with this on a rainy Tuesday night when my freezer was stocked with frozen mozzarella sticks and comfort food was the only thing on my mind. Something magical happens when the crispy coating meets melted cheese between buttery bread. My husband took one bite and declared it better than any restaurant version hed tried. Now its our go to when we want something indulgent but dont want to leave the house.
My sister was visiting during a particularly stressful week and I threw these together for lunch. We sat at the counter dipping the sandwiches into marinara and suddenly everything felt manageable again. Shes texted me three times since asking when Im making them again. Food has a way of turning ordinary moments into memories.
Ingredients
- Mozzarella slices: Use whole milk slices for the creamiest melt and best flavor
- Shredded mozzarella: This fills all the gaps between the mozzarella sticks ensuring every bite is cheesy
- Cooked mozzarella sticks: Frozen ones work perfectly just cook them first so theyre hot and crispy
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter spreads evenly and gives that classic golden crunch
- Bread: Sourdough adds a nice tang but white bread gives that nostalgic diner vibe
Instructions
- Get everything ready:
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat and cook those mozzarella sticks according to the package directions so theyre crispy and hot
- Prep your bread:
- Spread softened butter generously on one side of each bread slice this is what creates that beautiful golden crust
- Start building:
- Place two slices butter side down in your skillet then layer on the mozzarella slices and shredded cheese
- Add the star:
- Nestle two cooked mozzarella sticks on top of each cheese layer
- Complete the sandwich:
- Top with remaining bread slices butter side up
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side pressing gently until the bread is golden and everything is melty
- Rest and serve:
- Let them sit for just one minute before slicing then serve with warm marinara for dipping
Save It My niece who claims to hate trying new foods suspiciously eyed this sandwich before taking the smallest possible bite. Her eyes went wide and she proceeded to eat an entire sandwich by herself. Sometimes the best recipes are the ones that surprise even the pickiest eaters.
Best Bread Choices
Sourdough gives a tangy contrast that cuts through all that rich cheese while Texas toast creates an extra thick restaurant style base. Whatever you choose make sure its sturdy enough to hold all those layers without falling apart.
Make It Spicy
Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes between the cheese layers for just a little kick. A dash of Italian seasoning or garlic powder also adds incredible depth without much extra effort.
Dipping Sauces Beyond Marinara
While marinara is classic dont be afraid to try ranch dressing or even a spicy arrabbiata sauce. My brother in law swears by dipping his in a mixture of marinara and garlic butter.
- Heat your dipping sauce so it melts the cheese even more on contact
- Cut sandwiches on the diagonal for easier dipping
- Have extra napkins ready because these get gloriously messy
Save It Theres something deeply satisfying about turning simple ingredients into something so over the top delicious. Hope this brings you as much joy as its brought my family.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
White or sourdough bread creates a perfect balance of crunch and softness, but whole grain can add extra texture.
- → Can I make the mozzarella sticks from scratch?
Yes, homemade mozzarella sticks can be prepared and cooked according to your preferred recipe or package instructions.
- → How do I achieve a crispy crust on the sandwich?
Spreading softened butter or a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bread before grilling helps create a golden, crispy exterior.
- → Is marinara sauce necessary for serving?
Marinara sauce is optional but adds a tangy complement to the cheesy, savory layers.
- → Can I add spices to enhance the flavor?
Sprinkling Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper before grilling enhances the flavor with an aromatic kick.