
This indulgent Spaghetti Grilled Cheese transforms leftover pasta night into a handheld comfort food masterpiece. The combination of garlic-buttered bread, twirls of angel hair pasta coated in rich Bolognese, and gooey mozzarella creates an irresistible sandwich that satisfies two cravings at once.
I created this recipe one evening when my refrigerator was filled with leftover pasta but I was craving a grilled cheese sandwich. The combination was so deliciously satisfying that it has become my go to solution for pasta leftovers ever since.
Ingredients
- 2 slices soft Italian bread The pillowy texture creates the perfect foundation that gets beautifully crisp when toasted
- 1 tablespoon butter softened Use room temperature butter for easy spreading to ensure even browning
- ½ teaspoon fresh basil finely chopped Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile beyond a basic grilled cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced The aromatic foundation that transforms regular bread into irresistible garlic bread
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese grated Adds a salty nutty dimension that complements the mozzarella perfectly
- ½ cup prepared Bolognese sauce The rich meaty sauce binds everything together look for a sauce with depth of flavor
- 1 cup angel hair pasta cooked This delicate pasta allows for easier eating in sandwich form than thicker noodles
- 6 slices fresh mozzarella cheese Fresh mozzarella melts into gloriously stretchy pools rather than just disappearing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Create the garlic butter spread
- In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the minced garlic, chopped basil, and softened butter until well integrated. Spread this aromatic mixture evenly across one side of each bread slice, reaching all the way to the edges. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the butter on both slices, gently pressing to adhere it to the surface. This creates a flavor foundation and will develop into a beautifully golden crust.
- Cook the pasta
- Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Add the angel hair pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still firm to the bite. Angel hair cooks quickly, so watch carefully to avoid mushy pasta. Drain thoroughly in a colander, giving it a gentle shake to remove excess water which could make your sandwich soggy.
- Prepare the pasta filling
- Transfer the hot drained pasta to a bowl and immediately add the Bolognese sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly until every strand is coated with the rich sauce. The heat from the freshly cooked pasta will warm the sauce to the perfect temperature. Let it cool for just a minute so it doesn't immediately melt your cheese.
- Assemble the sandwich
- Place one slice of bread on your work surface, garlic butter side down. Arrange 3 slices of fresh mozzarella evenly across the bread, covering the surface completely. Carefully spoon the pasta mixture on top of the cheese layer, spreading it evenly but keeping it away from the edges to prevent spillage during cooking. Place the remaining 3 slices of mozzarella on top of the pasta. The double layer of cheese ensures proper melting and binding. Top with the second slice of bread, garlic butter side facing up.
- Cook to golden perfection
- Heat a skillet over medium low heat. Do not add additional butter or oil as the garlic butter on the bread provides enough fat for cooking. Place the assembled sandwich in the pan and immediately cover with a lid. This traps heat to help melt the cheese while the bread toasts. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until the bottom develops a rich golden brown color. Using a wide spatula, carefully flip the sandwich in one motion, replace the lid, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the second side is equally golden and the cheese has completely melted.

This sandwich has rescued countless nights when I needed quick comfort food with minimal effort. The garlic butter is truly the secret weapon here I sometimes make extra to keep in the refrigerator specifically for impromptu grilled cheese cravings.
Storage And Reheating
These sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately after cooking when the exterior is at its crispiest and the cheese is perfectly melty. However, if you need to prepare in advance, assemble the sandwiches without cooking and store them wrapped tightly in parchment paper in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours. When ready to eat, simply cook as directed, adding an extra minute per side to ensure proper heating through.
If reheating a previously cooked sandwich, avoid the microwave which will make the bread soggy. Instead, wrap loosely in foil and heat in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes, removing the foil for the last 2 minutes to re-crisp the exterior.
Variations To Try
For a vegetarian version, substitute the Bolognese with marinara sauce enriched with sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Adding a few spinach leaves between the pasta and cheese creates a complete meal with added nutrients.
Experiment with different pasta shapes if angel hair isn't available. Small shapes like orzo or small shells work particularly well in a sandwich format. For an extra flavor dimension, try incorporating a tablespoon of pesto into your pasta before assembling.
A sprinkling of red pepper flakes between the cheese layers adds a pleasant heat that cuts through the richness. For an elevated version, add a few fresh basil leaves just before serving for brightness and color.
Serving Suggestions
This substantial sandwich stands perfectly well on its own as a complete meal, but pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. The peppery greens and bright acidity provide a welcome contrast to the rich, cheesy sandwich.
For a full Italian inspired meal, serve alongside a small cup of tomato soup for dipping, or a few marinated artichoke hearts and olives for a Mediterranean touch. A glass of medium bodied red wine like Chianti complements the flavors beautifully for an adult dinner.

Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different types of pasta for this sandwich?
Yes! While angel hair pasta works wonderfully because of its delicate texture, you can substitute with spaghetti, linguine, or even fettuccine. Just ensure the pasta is cut into manageable lengths for easier eating in sandwich form.
- → What cheese alternatives work well in this sandwich?
Fresh mozzarella provides that classic stretchy cheese pull, but provolone, fontina, or a good melting cheese like Gruyère would also be delicious. For a stronger flavor profile, try adding a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or pecorino romano.
- → Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use a vegetarian bolognese sauce or substitute with marinara sauce, pesto, or even a simple butter and herb mixture to coat the pasta. The sandwich will still be delicious with just pasta and cheese.
- → How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain the pasta thoroughly before mixing with sauce. The garlic-parmesan butter on the bread creates a moisture barrier, but you can also lightly toast the bread before assembling for extra protection. Avoid using too much sauce and serve immediately after cooking.
- → What sides pair well with this sandwich?
A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich sandwich. Crispy potato chips, pickles, or a small cup of tomato soup for dipping would also complement it beautifully. For a complete Italian-American experience, serve with marinated olives or giardiniera.
- → Can I prepare components ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and cook the pasta in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the pasta with sauce before assembling and grilling the sandwich fresh for the best texture and flavor.