Spaghetti Grilled Cheese Sandwich

This simple recipe helps you use up leftover spaghetti and comes in a portable package that's sure to please -Spaghetti Grilled Cheese!

Ingredients:

• 4 large slices Italian bread, or 6 smaller slices  
• 4 Tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature  
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder  
• 1 ½ cups leftover spaghetti with meat sauce, warmed through  
• 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded  
• 4 slices provolone cheese  
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking:

1. In a small bowl, stir together the butter and garlic powder. Spread the butter evenly on the outside of each piece of bread, being sure to spread it all the way to the edges.  
2. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on the outside of the bread, and use your fingers or a knife to press it into the butter a bit.  
3. Layer each sandwich in this order: bread slice (butter side out), shredded mozzarella, a scoop of spaghetti, provolone cheese slices, and bread slice.  
4. Heat a well-seasoned cast iron skillet or heavy non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the bread in the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Carefully flip, cover the pan, and continue to cook another 2-3 minutes until the second side is brown and the cheese is melted.  
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes:

The keys to an ultra gooey, melty grilled cheese are:  

•  Use freshly shredded cheese. 
• Cover the pan. If your pan doesn’t have a lid, use a sheet pan to cover the top.

Safe Handling Tips:

• Wash hands with soap and water before cooking and always after touching raw meat. 
• Separate raw meat from other foods. 
• Wash all cutting boards, utensils, and dishes after touching raw meat. 
• Do not reuse marinades used on raw foods. 
• Wash all produce prior to use. 
• Cook steaks and roasts until temperature reaches 145°F for medium rare, as measured by a meat thermometer, allowing to rest for three minutes. Cook Ground Beef to 160°F as measured by a meat thermometer. 
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly. 

For more information on degree of doneness and other cooking tips. 

For more information on safe food handling and beef safety.