Description
A decadent twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, combining al dente angel hair pasta tossed in savory Bolognese sauce and melted fresh mozzarella between slices of garlic basil buttered Italian bread, cooked to golden perfection in a skillet.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Butter Mixture
- 2 slices soft Italian bread
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened to room temperature
- ½ teaspoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 cup angel hair pasta, cooked
- ½ cup prepared Bolognese sauce
Cheese
- 6 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic Basil Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, and softened butter until well combined. Spread this flavorful butter on one side of each slice of Italian bread. Sprinkle half a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese on the buttered side of each slice, gently pressing it into the butter to adhere.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook until just tender, about al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Mix Pasta with Bolognese: In a bowl, combine the hot drained pasta with the prepared Bolognese sauce, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly with the rich meat sauce.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place one bread slice butter-side down on a clean surface. Layer 3 slices of fresh mozzarella evenly over the bread. Spoon the pasta and Bolognese mixture over the cheese layer, then top with the remaining 3 mozzarella slices. Close the sandwich with the other slice of bread, butter side facing up.
- Cook the Sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the assembled sandwich in the pan and cover with a lid to help the cheese melt. Cook undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the bottom slice of bread is golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwich, cover again, and cook the other side until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, about another 5 to 6 minutes.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melting quality and flavor.
- Ensure the butter is soft so it spreads evenly on the bread.
- Covering the sandwich while cooking helps melt the cheese perfectly.
- You can substitute Bolognese with your favorite pasta sauce if preferred.
- For a crispier sandwich, use a cast iron skillet and adjust heat accordingly.
