Mozzarella Stick Grilled Cheese

# What You Need:

→ Dairy & Cheese

01 - 8 frozen mozzarella sticks

02 - 4 slices mozzarella cheese

→ Bread

03 - 4 slices Italian or sourdough bread

→ Sauces

04 - 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)

→ Butter & Oil

05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# How-To:

01 - Bake the mozzarella sticks according to package instructions until golden and crispy. Set aside and keep warm.

02 - Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice.

03 - Place two bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Layer each with 2 slices mozzarella cheese, 4 cooked mozzarella sticks, and 2 tablespoons marinara sauce.

04 - Cover each with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.

05 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.

06 - Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve hot with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -

It takes the nostalgic crunch of mozzarella sticks and tucks them inside a warm grilled cheese for maximum cheese pull in every bite
The marinara sauce inside the sandwich keeps everything gooey while the bread gets perfectly crisp
This comes together fast enough for a weeknight dinner but feels special enough for late night snacks with friends

02 -

Let the mozzarella sticks cool for just a minute after baking so they do not tear the bread when you bite in
A thin layer of marinara is key too much and the bread gets soggy before it can crisp up
Low and slow heat wins here if the butter is burning turn it down slightly

03 -

Pre cook the mozzarella sticks even if the package says microwave because baking gives you that essential crunch
Mayo instead of butter on the bread creates an even crispier crust and adds a subtle tang
If the cheese is not melting cover the pan with a lid for a minute to trap the heat