Mozzarella Stick Grilled Cheese

The smell of butter hitting a hot skillet still takes me back to late nights in my first apartment, when dinner was whatever could be assembled between two slices of bread. I stumbled on this combination by accident after a friend left a box of frozen mozzarella sticks in my freezer following a party. Something about the crispy breading on the sticks, married with that classic grilled cheese crunch, creates this incredible texture contrast I had never considered before.

I made these for my brother during a particularly rough week, his face lighting up when he bit into that first crunch. We sat at the counter dipping each triangle into marinara, not saying much because sometimes food says enough. Now whenever he visits, this is what he requests instead of going out.

Ingredients

• 4 slices mozzarella cheese: These create the melting foundation that holds everything together
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The shredded cheese fills in all the nooks and crannies for maximum coverage
• 4 mozzarella sticks: Use frozen or homemade but cook them first so they are hot and ready to melt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened: Butter creates that golden classic grilled cheese exterior
• 4 slices white or sourdough bread: Choose a sturdy bread that can handle the substantial filling
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce optional: Warm marinara takes this over the top into full comfort food territory

Instructions

Get your skillet ready:

Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat letting it get evenly hot

Butter your bread:

Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice covering every corner

Start building:

Place two slices butter side down onto your hot skillet

Layer the cheese:

Add two mozzarella slices to each then sprinkle with two tablespoons shredded mozzarella

Add the mozzarella sticks:

Arrange two cooked mozzarella sticks on top of each cheese layer

Complete the sandwich:

Top with remaining bread slices butter side up

Grill to golden:

Cook for two to three minutes per side pressing gently until the bread is golden and cheese is melted

Rest and serve:

Let them sit for one minute then slice and serve with warm marinara

Save

These became a Super Bowl tradition after the year I made them on a whim and they disappeared faster than the actual wings. Something about that first bite through crunch into molten cheese makes people forget about being polite.

Bread Choices That Work

Sourdough adds a nice tang and holds up well to the hearty filling while white bread gives you that nostalgic diner style. I have found that slightly stale bread actually grills better than fresh because it crisps up without getting soggy.

Making It Your Own

A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper between the layers adds a whole new dimension. Sometimes I add a few pepperoni slices for a pizza grilled cheese variation.

Serving Suggestions

Cut these into triangles for easy dipping but rectangles work fine too. Serve immediately while the mozzarella sticks still have some crunch to them.

• Warm your marinara in a small saucepan while the sandwiches grill
• A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through all that richness
• These pair surprisingly well with a light lager or crisp white wine

Save

Life is too short for boring grilled cheese when you can turn it into something this indulgent with almost zero extra effort.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use frozen mozzarella sticks?

Yes, frozen mozzarella sticks work perfectly. Just cook them according to package directions before adding them to your sandwich. Homemade mozzarella sticks are also an excellent option if you prefer to make them from scratch.

→ What bread works best for this?

White bread and sourdough both work beautifully. Sourdough adds a nice tangy flavor and extra texture, while white bread creates a classic, kid-friendly version. Whole grain bread is also a great option for added nutrition.

→ How do I get the crispiest crust?

For an extra crispy crust, try spreading mayonnaise instead of butter on the bread. Mayonnaise has a higher smoke point and creates an beautifully golden, crunchy exterior. Make sure your skillet is properly preheated over medium heat before adding the sandwiches.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Try adding Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, or garlic powder before grilling for extra flavor. You could also add sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, or even pepperoni slices to customize your creation.

→ What should I serve with this?

Warm marinara sauce is the classic dipping choice, perfect for that mozzarella stick experience. A simple side salad, tomato soup, or even some pickle chips complement this rich sandwich beautifully and help balance the indulgence.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium-low heat or use a panini press to restore the crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving as it will make the bread soggy.