Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches Recipe

If you’re craving a toasty, melty, and just-a-little-bit-fancy lunch, Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches are about as close to bliss as you can get between two slices of bread. Each bite is layered with creamy mozzarella, briny anchovy, herby pesto, tender artichokes, and whisper-thin mortadella, all wrapped up in that golden crostini crunch. This is the sandwich you whip up when you want something fast, satisfying, yet still wildly craveable—with flavors that make you want to savor every cheesy, savory mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, high-quality ingredients make all the difference in Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches. Each one is carefully chosen, playing a starring role in everything from texture to flavor, so don’t skip a single detail!

• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a crisp, golden crust.
• White country bread: Offers the perfect chewy surface for grilling; slice it about 1/4 inch thick for best results.
• Oil-packed anchovy fillets: These add a gentle saltiness and depth of flavor that anchors the whole sandwich—don’t worry, it won’t taste fishy!
• Fresh mozzarella: Sliced nice and thin, this melts beautifully and gives the sandwich a dreamy, stretchy texture.
• Pesto sauce: A drizzle of herby pesto brightens every bite and ties the flavors together.
• Marinated artichoke hearts: Their tang and tenderness cut through the richness for the perfect bite.
• Mortadella: Just a few thin slices lend an unmistakable savory depth and silkiness.

How to Make Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches

Step 1: Toast the Bread

Begin by heating 3 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmery and easily coats the pan, add your bread slices in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Swirl and move them gently for even toasting, about 3 minutes. Flip and drizzle in the remaining oil, continuing to toast until both sides are beautifully golden and crisp. If the pan gets dry, splash in a little more oil to keep things sizzling.

Step 2: Prep the Fillings

While your bread cools for a moment, get your other ingredients ready. Mince those anchovy fillets so they almost melt right into the bread, slice the mozzarella thin for perfect melt, and make sure your artichoke hearts and mortadella are ready to stack.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread the minced anchovy evenly over half of the toasted bread slices. Layer on the mozzarella, then drizzle with the pesto. Scatter the sliced artichokes for tangy flair, and drape the mortadella on top. Cap each with a second slice of your toasty bread.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Transfer the assembled Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches to a skillet and pop the whole thing into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Let them bake for about 5 minutes, or until the mozzarella is gloriously melted and gooey. If you’ve got a toaster oven, that works too! Serve them up hot and enjoy.

How to Serve Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches

Garnishes

Crown your Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches with a flourish of fresh basil leaves or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil over the top brings extra shine and rich flavor, while a grind of black pepper adds subtle heat.

Side Dishes

Pair these sandwiches with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, a handful of herbed potato chips, or even a classic bowl of tomato soup. The sandwiches’ richness and tang call for something bright and refreshing on the side to make a perfectly balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches into mini triangles or finger-friendly strips for a party platter or picnic. Try setting up a build-your-own sandwich board for guests with extra pesto, roasted veggies, or different cured meats for variety—everyone loves a customized bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches (lucky you!), let them cool to room temperature, then wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these sandwiches if needed. Wrap each cooled sandwich individually in foil, then pop them into a resealable freezer bag. Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches keep well in the freezer for up to 1 month, making them great for quick, crave-worthy snacks.

Reheating

To reheat, unroll the sandwich and toast it in a skillet over medium heat, pressing gently until the bread crisps and the cheese is warmed through—about 3–5 minutes per side. Alternatively, bake the sandwiches in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, straight from the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Can I make Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches without anchovies?

Absolutely! If anchovies aren’t your thing, simply omit them or replace with a thin layer of olive tapenade or sun-dried tomato spread for a different savory punch.

What’s the best type of mozzarella to use?

Fresh mozzarella is ideal for its superior melt and creamy texture, but you can use low-moisture mozzarella if that’s what you have—just slice it thin to ensure it melts beautifully.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Be sure to toast the bread thoroughly and assemble the Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches just before baking; this keeps everything warm, crisp, and melty, without any soggy surprises.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Roasted red peppers, baby spinach, or thinly sliced tomatoes make delicious additions and bring extra flavor and color to your sandwiches.

What if I don’t have mortadella?

No mortadella? Thinly sliced ham, prosciutto, or even turkey work well as substitutes—each offers a unique texture and taste, so use what you love or have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Ready to upgrade your lunch routine? Trust me, once you’ve had Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches with all these craveable Italian flavors, you’ll want to keep them in your regular rotation. Give them a try, share them with your loved ones, and get ready for the kind of smiles and satisfied sighs that only an irresistible grilled sandwich can inspire!

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