Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach and Ricotta Grilled Cheese is an irresistible, gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. This mouthwatering creation combines creamy ricotta cheese, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all pressed between two slices of golden, buttery bread. The result is a rich, flavorful sandwich with a perfect balance of textures: crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
Grilled cheese is often thought of as a simple comfort food, but this elevated version is ideal for when you want something both comforting and refined. It’s a quick and easy recipe that delivers a surprising depth of flavor, making it a perfect option for lunch, a light dinner, or even a party snack. The savory sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of umami, while the fresh spinach adds a touch of earthiness, and the ricotta cheese provides a smooth, creamy base that ties everything together.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of sourdough bread (or your favorite bread)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (optional for extra meltiness)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional for garlic butter)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach until well incorporated.
Step 2:
If you’re using garlic butter, combine the softened butter with the minced garlic. Spread this garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice of bread. If you’re skipping the garlic, simply spread regular softened butter on the bread.
Step 3:
Spread a generous amount of the ricotta, sun-dried tomato, and spinach mixture on two slices of the bread (on the non-buttered side). If you’re adding shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese, sprinkle it over the ricotta mixture for extra creaminess and meltiness.
Step 4:
Place the remaining slices of bread on top of the ricotta mixture, buttered side facing out. This will help create a crispy, golden exterior when grilled.
Step 5:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the bread crisp up. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 6:
Once the sandwiches are crispy and golden on both sides, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
COOKING Note:
- For a more intense garlic flavor, rub a fresh clove of garlic on the bread after grilling. This gives the sandwich a subtle garlic hint without overpowering the other flavors.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese, but freshly grated cheese will give you better melt and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach and Ricotta Grilled Cheese is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and dips. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal:
- Tomato Basil Soup: The rich, creamy sandwich pairs perfectly with a bowl of warm tomato basil soup. The acidity of the tomatoes complements the richness of the ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes, making it a classic pairing.
- Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the creaminess of the sandwich. Spinach, arugula, or mixed greens work beautifully.
- Marinara Dip: Serve the grilled cheese with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato sauce enhances the sun-dried tomatoes in the sandwich and adds a comforting, pizza-like feel to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. The roasted veggies add a smoky, savory contrast to the creamy, cheesy sandwich.
- Pickles or Olives: For a tangy contrast, add a side of pickles or a mix of marinated olives. The briny flavors cut through the richness of the cheese, providing a refreshing bite between bites of the sandwich.
Tips:
- Use Thick-Cut Bread: For a sturdier sandwich, opt for thick slices of sourdough or ciabatta. This type of bread holds up better to the creamy filling without getting soggy.
- Experiment with Cheeses: If you want to elevate the flavor further, try adding other cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or Gruyère. These cheeses complement the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach beautifully.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley mixed into the ricotta adds a burst of herbaceous flavor. You can also sprinkle the herbs over the finished sandwich for a vibrant garnish.
- Use Whole Wheat Bread: For a healthier option, use whole wheat bread or multigrain bread. This adds fiber and nutrients without sacrificing the crispiness and flavor.
- Add a Protein: To make this a more filling meal, you can add a layer of protein like grilled chicken, turkey, or even bacon. The salty, savory proteins pair well with the creamy ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute ricotta with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Adding mozzarella, provolone, or even feta can enhance the creaminess and flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover grilled cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet or oven to maintain the crispiness of the bread.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free bread. Make sure all other ingredients, like the sun-dried tomatoes, are also gluten-free.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the ricotta mixture.
Q: Can I make this sandwich vegan?
A: To make a vegan version, use plant-based ricotta, vegan mozzarella, and dairy-free butter. The sandwich will still be creamy and delicious with these substitutions.
Conclusion
Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach and Ricotta Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. Combining the creamy richness of ricotta with the tangy punch of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of spinach, this sandwich is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or a light dinner, this grilled cheese recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers complex, mouthwatering flavors.
The crispy, golden bread encasing the soft, melty filling makes each bite a perfect combination of texture and taste. Serve it with your favorite soup, salad, or dipping sauce for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s easy to customize, making it adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs, and is guaranteed to impress with its sophisticated flavors.