This Lasagna Grilled Cheese is ground beef simmered in marinara sauce layered between slices of buttery sourdough, with a rich, creamy ricotta-parmesan spread and melty mozzarella. (If that sounds like a mouthful, it is, both literally and figuratively!) It is the ultimate mash-up of two classics–lasagna and a crispy, gooey grilled cheese sandwich! It is a hand-held indulgence that will definitely get people talking (when they aren’t busy devouring it, that is). I also have Lasagna Dip, another twist on the classic, perfect for scooping with toasted bread or chips.

Lasagna Grilled Cheese sandwiches on a piece of parchment paper with marinara sauce from overhead.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: I used ground beef to bring the meaty lasagna flavor to the sandwich. You could substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork.
Marinara Sauce: I have a delicious homemade marinara that would work well in this recipe! And, for even more cheesiness, you could check out my Five Cheese Marinara! Or, choose your favorite marinara to use. It will simmer with the ground beef and be used as a dipping sauce for serving the sandwiches.
Ricotta Cheese: If you are not a fan of ricotta cheese (it’s not for everyone!), you can easily substitute it. Try using cottage cheese, mascarpone, fresh goat cheese, or queso fresco for a different flavor and texture.
Parmesan: For the best results, I like to freshly grate a block of parmesan. If you want a stronger flavor, try pecorino romano or asiago.
Bread: Sourdough bread (which I used) has a sturdy texture that can hold up to all the deliciousness in the sandwich! If you are not a fan of sourdough, use another sturdy bread like ciabatta.
Mozzarella Cheese: We can’t leave out the gooey factor in a grilled cheese sandwich! So, I added shredded mozzarella cheese to each. I think provolone or gouda would also melt well and add flavor. (If you like gouda, I have an apple gouda grilled cheese you might want to try.)

Lasagna Grilled Cheese sandwiches in the pan before browning and melting.

Can I Make The Lasagna Grilled Cheese Filling Ahead Of Time?

Yes! You can definitely make the filling ahead of time. Cook the ground beef with marinara sauce and prepare the ricotta-parmesan mixture in advance. Store both in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to make the sandwiches, simply reheat the ground beef mixture, assemble the sandwiches, and grill them. I love how this is a convenient option for quick assembly later!

Cut in half Lasagna Grilled Cheese on a piece of parchment paper and cut in half.

Keeping Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Warm & Delicious

If you are cooking the grilled cheese sandwiches in batches (not everyone has a giant skillet), you can make one or two at a time and keep them warm. Here is how:

Oven Method: Preheat the oven to a low temperature, about 200°F. Place the grilled cheese sandwiches on a baking sheet and keep in the oven until ready to serve.
Foil Method: Wrap each cooked sandwich in aluminum foil. Arrange them in a single layer in a warm oven or on a warming tray until all sandwiches are ready.
Microwave (Warm Plate) Method: Place the grilled cheese sandwiches on a microwave-safe plate and cover them loosely with a clean kitchen towel or another plate. Microwave them on low power for short intervals (about 20-30 seconds) to keep them warm without overheating.

Stack of halved Lasagna Grilled Cheese sandwiches.

What To Serve With Lasagna Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

This hearty (and messy, but in the most delicious way) sandwich can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are some options I would recommend:

Tomato Soup–a classic pairing (I have a roasted tomato soup and an air fryer roasted tomato soup, either would be perfect.)
Focaccia Breadsticks–my new favorite way to make breadsticks!
Homemade Potato Chips
Coleslaw
Roasted Vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts

How To Store Lasagna Grilled Cheese

Although best served hot off the skillet, you can store the grilled cheese if needed. First, let the grilled cheese cool to room temperature. Next, wrap the sandwiches individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the sandwiches in the oven or on a skillet.

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Lasagna Grilled Cheese

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Mouth watering!! Indulge in a fantastic Lasagna Grilled Cheese sandwich with layers of ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta spread!

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Ingredients

▢ ½ pound ground beef
▢ 2 cups (514 g) marinara sauce, divided
▢ ½ cup (123 g) ricotta cheese
▢ ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated
▢ ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
▢ 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, divided
▢ 8 slices sourdough bread
▢ 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine. This will make about ½ cup of the ricotta mixture.
Spread ½ tablespoon of softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
On the unbuttered side of one of the bread slices, spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture (about 2 tablespoons).
Spoon about ⅓ cup of the ground beef mixture evenly over the ricotta mixture. Then, top with ¼ cup of mozzarella. Repeat with three more slices of bread.
Place one of the remaining bread slices on top of each sandwich, butter side facing up.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Working one or two at a time, place the sandwiches in the skillet, butter side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
Serve immediately with the remaining marinara sauce for dipping.