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Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese

Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese

Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, combining tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and melty cheddar or mozzarella cheese inside buttery, crispy bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner, this sandwich offers a nutritious yet indulgent comfort food experience with a beautiful texture and vibrant taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
  • 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • 2 slices thick sourdough or artisan white bread
  • 12 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 small clove fresh garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh chopped spinach leaves. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder or freshly minced garlic if desired. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly blended.
  2. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture evenly over one slice of your chosen bread. Add a layer of shredded sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta mixture, then cover with the second slice of bread. Lightly spread butter on the outer sides of both bread slices to ensure a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
  3. Grill to Perfection: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside has melted. Press gently with a spatula while cooking to create a compact melt and promote even cooking.
  4. Serve Warm: Carefully remove the grilled cheese from the pan and let it rest for one minute before slicing. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to enjoy each gooey bite without the filling spilling out.

Notes

  • Let ricotta and shredded cheese come to room temperature to help melt faster and more evenly.
  • If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, pat them dry to avoid soggy bread.
  • Cook the sandwich on medium heat to ensure the bread crisps up without burning before the cheese melts.
  • Press the sandwich gently with a spatula while cooking to speed up melting and create a compact filling.
  • Slice sandwiches diagonally for easier, bite-sized pieces and attractive presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled cheese, sun-dried tomato, spinach, ricotta, comfort food, sandwich, vegetarian, quick lunch