Description
This Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese recipe offers a gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese, combining creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses with flavorful sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Perfectly toasted sourdough bread encases the savory filling, making it a satisfying vegetarian main course ideal for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Butter
- 8 slices sourdough or Italian bread
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Cheese and Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (lightly wilted or sautéed)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, wilted spinach, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a creamy filling.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over 4 slices of bread. Top each with a second slice to form a sandwich. Lightly butter the outsides of each sandwich with softened butter to ensure a golden, crispy crust during cooking.
- Cook the grilled cheese: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches onto the hot skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt evenly. Continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese filling is warm and melted. If necessary, cook sandwiches in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Serve warm: Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet, slice if desired, and serve immediately. Optionally, accompany with tomato soup or drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, rub the bread with a cut garlic clove before assembling the sandwiches.
- Fresh basil leaves can be added to the filling for a fragrant, herby twist.
- Use gluten-free bread to accommodate gluten sensitivities or preferences.
