Savory Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Ricotta Grilled Cheese Recipe

Crafting a delectable sun-dried tomato, spinach, and ricotta grilled cheese transforms an ordinary lunch into a gourmet experience.

Melted cheese oozes between golden-brown bread slices, creating irresistible layers of flavor.

Vibrant spinach adds a fresh, green crunch to each bite.

Tangy sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of Mediterranean charm.

Creamy ricotta softens the sandwich’s robust profile with its delicate texture.

Cheese lovers will appreciate this simple yet sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food.

Take a bite and savor the perfect balance of ingredients that dance together in delicious harmony.

Why Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese Is So Tasty

• Elevate Comfort Food: Transform the classic grilled cheese into a gourmet experience with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and creamy ricotta, creating a sophisticated twist on a beloved comfort dish.
• Nutrient-Packed Delight: Boost your meal with wholesome spinach and protein-rich cheeses, making this sandwich a smart choice for a quick, nutritious lunch or dinner option.
• Quick Culinary Creativity: Master this restaurant-quality sandwich in minutes, perfect for busy individuals craving a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup with a single skillet preparation, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal without the hassle of multiple dishes and complex cooking techniques.

Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese

• Bread Slices: Soft and sturdy base for the grilled cheese sandwich.

• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and mild cheese that adds a smooth texture to the sandwich.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Intensely flavored, tangy tomatoes that provide a rich, concentrated taste.
• Spinach: Fresh leafy green that brings a nutritious and slightly earthy element to the sandwich.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Mild, stretchy cheese that melts beautifully and adds gooey goodness.

• Butter: Helps create a golden, crispy exterior and adds rich flavor to the bread.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Grab your favorite bread slices and generously coat one side of each slice with creamy butter. Make sure to spread the butter evenly to achieve a perfectly golden, crispy exterior when grilled.

Step 2: Layer the Ricotta Base

Flip the bread slice so the unbuttered side faces up. Spread a thick, luxurious layer of ricotta cheese across the surface, creating a smooth and creamy foundation for your gourmet grilled cheese.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Toppings

• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Fresh spinach leaves
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Each ingredient will contribute its unique flavor and texture to the sandwich.

Step 4: Complete the Sandwich

Gently place the second bread slice on top, ensuring the buttered side faces outward. Press down lightly to help the ingredients meld together.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Carefully transfer the sandwich to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, watching for a beautiful golden-brown color and listening for that satisfying sizzle.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet when the bread is crispy and the cheese has melted into a gooey, irresistible center. Slice diagonally and serve immediately while hot and fresh.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Cheese

• Choose soft, spreadable ricotta for a creamy texture that melts perfectly inside the sandwich.
• Pat sun-dried tomatoes dry before adding to prevent excess moisture from making bread soggy.
• Chop fresh spinach leaves finely to distribute evenly and ensure better melting with cheese.
• Use a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan for even golden-brown crispy bread without burning.
• Allow sandwich to rest for 1-2 minutes after grilling to let cheese settle and flavors meld together.

Variations to Try With Grilled Cheese

• Mediterranean Melt: Replace mozzarella with crumbled feta cheese and add sliced kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Pesto Paradise: Spread basil pesto on the bread before adding ricotta and vegetables for an herbal, aromatic upgrade.
• Prosciutto Power: Layer thin slices of prosciutto between the spinach and cheese to introduce a savory, salty protein element.
• Spicy Southwest: Sprinkle chili flakes and swap spinach for roasted green chiles to create a zesty, bold sandwich version.

Pairing Suggestions for Sun-Dried Tomato Grilled Cheese

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a bright, acidic sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to cut through the rich, creamy cheese and complement the tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
• Serve with Fresh Arugula Salad: Create a light, peppery side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the sandwich's richness and add a fresh, zesty contrast.
• Match with Tomato Basil Soup: Dunk this gourmet grilled cheese into a smooth, herb-infused tomato soup that echoes the sun-dried tomato flavors and creates a comforting meal.
• Complement with Sparkling Water: Add a refreshing, effervescent drink with a slice of lemon to cleanse the palate between bites of the decadent sandwich.

Storage Recommendations for Grilled Cheese

• Store leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Warm sandwich over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring crispy exterior and melted cheese.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place sandwich on baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts and bread crisps.
• Wrap sandwich in aluminum foil, toast for 3-4 minutes, then unwrap last minute to restore crunchiness.

FAQs About Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese

• Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use sourdough, whole wheat, or any sturdy bread that grills well and holds the ingredients.

• Is it okay to use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Fresh tomatoes will add more moisture, so drain them well or use roasted tomatoes for a similar concentrated flavor.

• How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure your cheeses are made without animal rennet if you want a strict vegetarian version.

• Can I prepare this sandwich in advance?

It’s best grilled fresh, but you can prep ingredients beforehand and assemble just before cooking to maintain the crispy texture.

Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese Recipe

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4.7 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 11-13 minutes
• Yield: 1 1x

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Description

Gourmet Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese elevates sandwich crafting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Melted cheese, tangy tomatoes, and fresh spinach create a luxurious lunch experience you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 slices bread
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes

Cheese Components:

• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (tbsp) butter

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Instructions

1. Generously coat one exterior surface of each bread slice with softened butter, ensuring complete and even coverage.
2. Apply a thick, smooth layer of ricotta cheese across the inner surface of one bread slice, spreading to the edges.
3. Arrange sun-dried tomatoes in an even layer over the ricotta, creating a vibrant and textured base.
4. Distribute fresh spinach leaves carefully over the tomatoes, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese across the spinach, allowing it to cascade over the surface.
6. Crown the assembled ingredients with the second bread slice, positioning the buttered side outward.
7. Preheat a skillet over medium heat for approximately 2 minutes until uniformly warm.
8. Gently transfer the sandwich to the heated skillet, listening for a subtle sizzling sound.
9. Cook for 3-4 minutes, watching the bread transform to a rich golden-brown color and the edges crisp.
10. Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula, cooking the alternate side for an additional 3-4 minutes until achieving an equally golden exterior.
11. Remove from heat when cheese appears completely melted and bread surfaces are uniformly toasted.
12. Transfer to a cutting board, slice diagonally, and serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Notes

• Select soft, high-quality bread like sourdough or artisan for better texture and flavor absorption.
• Pat sun-dried tomatoes dry before adding to prevent excess moisture making sandwich soggy.
• Use fresh baby spinach leaves for a crisp, vibrant green element that wilts perfectly when grilled.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like adding parmesan or switching mozzarella for provolone for depth of flavor.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 610 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 870 mg
• Fat: 44 g
• Saturated Fat: 23 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg