Mozzarella Stick Grilled Cheese

The idea hit me during a midnight kitchen raid when I was staring at leftover mozzarella sticks from takeout and a nearly-empty loaf of sourdough. Why not sandwich the best appetizer ever inside the comfort food king? The first attempt was messy cheese everywhere, the sticks slid around, but one bite confirmed I was onto something gloriously excessive.

I made these for my roommates on a rainy Tuesday when we all needed something to lift our spirits. The kitchen filled with the smell of toasting bread and melting cheese, and suddenly the gloomy weather outside did not matter anymore. Theyre now requested at every movie night, and honestly, I am not complaining.

Ingredients

• 4 slices mozzarella cheese: Use whole milk slices for the creamiest melt that hugs everything together
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This acts as the cheesy glue that keeps the mozzarella sticks from sliding around
• 4 mozzarella sticks: Cook them first whether frozen or homemade so they get that satisfying crunch
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Soften it really well so it spreads without tearing the bread
• 4 slices white or sourdough bread: Sourdough holds up better but white gives you that childhood nostalgia factor
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce: Warm it up while the sandwiches cook for dipping perfection

Instructions

Get your grill ready:

Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat while you prep everything else

Butter your bread:

Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice, going all the way to the edges

Start building:

Place two slices butter side down in the skillet and layer with mozzarella slices and shredded cheese

Add the star:

Arrange two cooked mozzarella sticks on top of each sandwich, pressing them slightly into the cheese

Close it up:

Top with remaining bread slices, butter side up, and press down gently with your spatula

Grill to golden:

Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the bread is beautifully browned and cheese is oozing out

The waiting game:

Let them rest for one whole minute before slicing or you will lose all that gorgeous cheese

Dip and enjoy:

Cut diagonally and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce on the side

Save

This sandwich became a legend in my friend group after I served them at a Super Bowl party three years ago. Now people text me randomly asking if I am making them, and that is the highest compliment a cook can receive.

The Bread Secret

I have tried every bread imaginable and sourdough wins for structural integrity, but Texas toast creates the most over-the-top indulgent version. The key is using bread that is at least a day old, fresh bread gets too soggy from all that melting cheese and butter.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I sprinkle Italian seasoning or garlic powder on the buttered side before grilling, and other times a pinch of red pepper flakes sneaks in for some heat. A smear of pesto inside the sandwich before adding cheese creates a restaurant quality upgrade that takes about ten seconds.

Serving Suggestions

These are substantial enough to be dinner with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. I have also cut them into smaller strips for party appetizers, and they disappear faster than I can assemble them.

• Pair with a light green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness
• A cup of tomato soup turns this into the ultimate comfort meal
• Cold beer or sparkling water with lemon helps balance all that cheesy goodness

Save

Life is too short for boring sandwiches, and this one delivers maximum happiness in every messy, melty bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen mozzarella sticks?

Yes, frozen mozzarella sticks work perfectly. Cook them according to package directions before adding to your sandwich. This ensures they're heated through and crispy when layered inside.

→ What bread works best?

White bread and sourdough both yield excellent results. Sourdough adds extra flavor and holds up well to pressing, while white bread creates a classic diner-style sandwich.

→ How do I get the crispiest crust?

Use softened butter spread evenly on the exterior, or swap for mayonnaise which creates an exceptionally golden, crunchy crust. Press gently with your spatula while cooking.

→ What can I serve with this?

Warm marinara sauce is the classic dipping choice, adding a tangy contrast to the rich, cheesy sandwich. A simple side salad also balances the heaviness nicely.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely. Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, or fresh basil layer beautifully between the cheeses. Some enthusiasts add pepperoni or caramelized onions for extra depth.