Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach and Ricotta Grilled Cheese
Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach and Ricotta Grilled Cheese is a flavorful and creamy twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Featuring tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and smooth ricotta cheese layered in crispy, buttery bread, this sandwich offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal suitable for any time of day.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – 1/4 cup, chopped
- Fresh Spinach – 1 cup, washed and roughly chopped
- Ricotta Cheese – 1/2 cup, room temperature
- Quality Bread (Sourdough or Ciabatta) – 2 slices
- Butter – 2 tablespoons, softened (for grilling)
Optional Ingredients
- Mozzarella or Parmesan Cheese – 1/4 cup shredded
- Minced Garlic or Italian Herbs – 1 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes or Hot Sauce – to taste (for spicy variation)
- Grilled Chicken or Turkey Slices – 2–3 slices (for protein boost)
- Kale or Arugula – 1/4 cup, mixed with spinach
- Goat Cheese or Feta – 1/4 cup, as cheese alternative
- Prepare the Filling: Finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes and wash the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and optionally minced garlic or Italian herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous amount of the ricotta mixture evenly over one slice of bread. For extra meltiness, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese on top. Place the second slice of bread over the filling and gently press down to secure.
- Butter the Bread and Preheat: Lightly butter the outer sides of the sandwich. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat ensuring it is hot before placing the sandwich down.
- Grill to Perfection: Place the sandwich on the skillet and grill for 3–4 minutes on each side. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Grill until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the filling is warmed and melty.
- Serve Warm and Enjoy: Remove the sandwich from heat and let it rest for a minute to set before slicing in half. Serve immediately to enjoy the colorful layers and inviting aroma.
Notes
- Use room temperature ricotta to spread and melt more easily.
- Do not overfill the sandwich to prevent soggy bread and uneven cooking.
- Grill over medium-low heat to achieve a crisp crust without burning.
- Press gently with a spatula or grill press to avoid squashing the sandwich.
- Choose thick-cut rustic bread like sourdough or ciabatta for the best texture and structure.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: grilled cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, ricotta, sandwich, vegetarian, easy recipe, comfort food