Lasagna Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Printer-Friendly Version)

Delicious layers of beef, marinara, and cheeses in a crispy grilled sandwich for easy, satisfying meals.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Meat

01 - ½ pound ground beef

→ Sauces

02 - 2 cups marinara sauce, divided

→ Cheeses

03 - ½ cup ricotta cheese
04 - ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
05 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

→ Seasonings

06 - ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

→ Butter and Bread

07 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened and divided
08 - 8 slices sourdough bread

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
02 - Reduce heat to low, stir in 1 cup marinara sauce, and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through. Remove from heat and set aside.
03 - Combine ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, and Italian seasoning in a medium bowl. Stir to integrate evenly.
04 - Spread ½ tablespoon softened butter evenly on one side of each sourdough bread slice.
05 - On the unbuttered side of four bread slices, spread 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture. Evenly distribute about ⅓ cup of the beef mixture over it, then layer with ¼ cup shredded mozzarella. Repeat for all four slices.
06 - Place the remaining bread slices atop each sandwich with the buttered side facing outward.
07 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook one or two sandwiches at a time for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
08 - Serve immediately alongside the remaining marinara sauce for dipping.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Allow sandwiches to rest briefly after cooking to let cheeses set for easier slicing.
02 - Use softened butter for even spreading and optimal crust crispiness.