Name: Mozzarella Marinara Sandwich
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 slices of bread; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup marinara sauce; 2 tablespoons butter

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a delicious and quick comfort food meal? The Mozzarella Marinara Sandwich is a perfect choice! This scrumptious sandwich combines gooey, melted mozzarella cheese with tangy marinara sauce, all nestled between crispy, golden slices of buttered bread. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy this cheesy delight in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re craving a warm lunch or a late-night snack, this sandwich satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds with every bite. It’s perfect for any occasion and an easy way to elevate the classic grilled cheese. Pair it with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients, this sandwich is incredibly fast to make—perfect for busy days!
Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love the melt-in-your-mouth texture of mozzarella paired with rich marinara sauce?
Comfort Food: It’s warm, cheesy, and comforting—just like a perfect grilled cheese with a twist.
Perfect for All Ages: This is a family-friendly recipe that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Customizable: Add your favorite extras like fresh basil, pepperoni, or sautéed veggies for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients

Bread
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Marinara sauce
Butter

Variations

Add Protein: Include slices of grilled chicken, sausage, or pepperoni for a heartier meal.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a bit of spice.
Herb Infusion: Add some fresh basil or oregano to enhance the flavor of the marinara sauce.
Switch the Cheese: Use provolone, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free mozzarella and butter substitutes to make it vegan-friendly.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Butter the Bread

Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will give the sandwich a golden, crispy texture when grilled.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Place one slice of bread, butter side down, on a preheated skillet or frying pan over medium heat.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Top the bread slice in the skillet with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Let the cheese melt slightly.

Step 4: Spoon the Marinara Sauce

Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over the cheese. Be sure to spread it evenly across the cheese.

Step 5: Add the Top Slice of Bread

Place the second slice of bread butter side up on top of the cheese and sauce. Press gently to combine.

Step 6: Cook Until Golden

Grill the sandwich on both sides until the bread is golden brown, and the cheese is fully melted. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 7: Repeat for the Second Sandwich

Repeat the process for the second sandwich using the remaining ingredients.

Step 8: Serve

Cut the sandwiches in half and serve hot. Enjoy the melty goodness!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Mozzarella: If you can, use fresh mozzarella for an even creamier texture and better meltability.
Grill on Low Heat: To ensure the cheese melts perfectly without burning the bread, cook on medium-low heat.
Butter Evenly: Make sure to evenly spread butter on the bread to ensure a uniformly crispy texture.
Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the sandwich with too much cheese or sauce, as it could make it soggy.
Panini Press Option: For a perfectly pressed sandwich, use a panini press instead of a skillet.

How to Serve

This Mozzarella Marinara Sandwich is perfect on its own or paired with a simple side. Try it with crispy French fries, a green salad, or some sweet potato wedges for a delicious meal. You can also serve it with a cup of extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid to melt the cheese again.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sandwiches for up to 1 month. Wrap each sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet or oven. If using a skillet, cover it with a lid to trap the heat and melt the cheese evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any bread you like, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or white bread.

2. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara works perfectly fine for this recipe, but homemade marinara can add a special touch.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar work great in this recipe.

4. Can I make this sandwich in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the sandwich in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted.

5. Can I add veggies to this sandwich?

Yes, sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach would be delicious additions to this sandwich.

6. Is it possible to make this sandwich ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to cook.

7. Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Yes, it’s already vegetarian, but you can also add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for added flavor.

8. How do I avoid the bread getting soggy?

Make sure to drain the marinara sauce before adding it to the sandwich and don’t overload the sandwich with sauce.

9. Can I use a non-stick pan for grilling?

Yes, a non-stick pan works great for grilling the sandwich and preventing the bread from sticking.

10. What should I serve with this sandwich?

This sandwich pairs well with a side of fries, a fresh salad, or some crispy roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This Mozzarella Marinara Sandwich is a simple yet delicious meal that brings together the best of cheese and Italian flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s easy to make and sure to please anyone with a love for cheesy goodness. With the combination of crispy bread, gooey mozzarella, and tangy marinara sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest. Try it today and enjoy the warmth of this easy, indulgent sandwich!