Lasagna Grilled Cheese Layers (Printer-Friendly)

A savory layered sandwich combining seasoned beef, rich cheeses, and tangy marinara in crispy bread.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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

→ Bread and Butter

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

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
02 - Reduce heat to low, stir in 1 cup marinara sauce, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
03 - In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth filling.
04 - Spread ½ tablespoon of softened butter evenly on one side of each sourdough bread slice.
05 - On the unbuttered side of four bread slices, layer 2 tablespoons ricotta mixture, ⅓ cup ground beef mixture, and ¼ cup shredded mozzarella each. Repeat for each sandwich.
06 - Top each assembled slice with a remaining slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
07 - Heat large skillet over medium heat. Cook sandwiches one or two at a time for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
08 - Serve immediately with remaining marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Allow sandwiches to rest for one minute before slicing to let the cheese set and prevent spillage.
02 - Use softened butter and room temperature cheese for even melting and optimal texture.