Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese
Indulging in a warm, cheesy sandwich is one of life’s simple pleasures, and this Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese takes that experience to a whole new level. With layers of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and savory parmesan nestled between slices of fragrant garlic or herb focaccia, this sandwich is a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese. Each bite is bursting with flavor, thanks to the addition of garlic tomato paste and fresh basil, making it a perfect option for lunch or a light dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
This Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese is not just a simple sandwich; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. The focaccia bread brings a soft yet slightly chewy base, while the combination of three different cheeses creates a rich and satisfying filling. The garlic tomato paste adds a punch of flavor, complemented by the sweetness of roasted red peppers and the freshness of basil. Each element of this recipe is designed to enhance the others, resulting in a grilled cheese that is both comforting and gourmet.
What to Buy
When making this delicious sandwich, it’s essential to have the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 slices garlic or herb focaccia bread – Choose a high-quality focaccia for the best flavor.
- 4 tablespoons light ricotta cheese – Creamy and light, ricotta adds a nice texture.
- 4 tablespoons garlic tomato paste – If unavailable, mix regular tomato paste with ½ teaspoon minced garlic.
- 6 slices of bottled char-grilled or roasted red capsicum/pepper – Adds sweetness and depth; ensure they are well-drained.
- 1 medium ripe tomato – Fresh slices provide a refreshing contrast.
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese – This cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we love.
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese – Sharp and salty, parmesan enhances the overall flavor.
- 10 leaves fresh basil – Fresh basil gives a burst of herbal freshness.
Toolbox for This Recipe
To prepare your Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese, you’ll need a few handy tools:
- Skillet or Griddle – For perfectly toasting your sandwich.
- Spatula – To flip the sandwich with ease.
- Knife – For slicing the tomatoes and peppers.
- Measuring spoons – For portioning out your cheese and paste.
- Cutting board – To prepare all your ingredients.
Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese: How It’s Done
Follow these simple steps to create your Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Drain the roasted red peppers and slice the medium ripe tomato. Set them aside for later use.
Step 2: Spread the Garlic Tomato Paste
Take two slices of focaccia bread and spread 2 tablespoons of garlic tomato paste evenly over one side of each slice. This will be the inner side of your sandwich, where all the flavor comes together.
Step 3: Layer the Cheeses
On top of the garlic tomato paste, spread 2 tablespoons of ricotta cheese on each slice. Next, add half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the grated parmesan cheese on one slice.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Layer on the roasted red pepper slices and the fresh tomato slices, distributing them evenly. Sprinkle some fresh basil leaves over the top to enhance the flavor profile.
Step 5: Complete the Sandwich
Top the sandwich with the other slice of focaccia, garlic tomato paste side down. Press down gently to help the ingredients stick together.
Step 6: Heat the Skillet
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a touch of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Grill the Sandwich
Place the sandwich in the skillet and grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the focaccia is golden brown and crispy. You can use a spatula to press down slightly for even grilling.
Step 8: Melt the Cheese
In the last minute of grilling, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top of the sandwich, allowing it to melt into the warm focaccia.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once golden and crispy, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Slice the sandwich in half and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
If You’re Out Of…
Sometimes you may find yourself missing an ingredient. Here’s what you can substitute:
- Focaccia bread – Use ciabatta or sourdough for a different flavor.
- Ricotta cheese – Cream cheese or goat cheese can work in a pinch.
- Garlic tomato paste – Use a store-bought garlic spread or simply fresh minced garlic mixed with tomato sauce.
- Fresh basil – Substitute with dried Italian herbs or a sprinkle of oregano.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- You can also experiment with other cheeses like fontina or provolone for a unique twist.
- This sandwich pairs well with a side of mixed greens or a light salad for a complete meal.
- If you have leftovers, they make for a tasty cold snack or can be reheated in a skillet for a quick meal.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare some ingredients ahead of time. Slice the tomatoes and peppers, and store them in the refrigerator. You can also mix the garlic tomato paste with the ricotta in advance. Store the assembled sandwich in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day before grilling. Reheat in a skillet to maintain the crispy texture.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While focaccia provides a unique flavor, you can use any bread you prefer, such as sourdough or ciabatta. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
What can I serve with Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese?
This sandwich pairs beautifully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. You could also try it alongside One Pot Cheesy Tortellini And Meatballs Recipe for a hearty meal.
Can I make this sandwich vegan?
Yes! Substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives and use a plant-based ricotta. Ensure the focaccia is free from dairy as well.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Reheat on a skillet to restore the crispy texture before enjoying.
Bring It Home
The Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings the flavors of Italy into your kitchen. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this sandwich is a celebration of cheese and fresh ingredients. With its crispy exterior and gooey interior, each bite is a reminder of why we love grilled cheese sandwiches so much. Enjoy this recipe for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, and savor every delightful bite.
Focaccia Three-Cheese Italian Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Drain the roasted red peppers and slice the medium ripe tomato. Set them aside for later use.
- Take two slices of focaccia bread and spread 2 tablespoons of garlic tomato paste evenly over one side of each slice.
- On top of the garlic tomato paste, spread 2 tablespoons of ricotta cheese on each slice. Next, add half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the grated parmesan cheese on one slice.
- Layer on the roasted red pepper slices and the fresh tomato slices, distributing them evenly. Sprinkle some fresh basil leaves over the top.
- Top the sandwich with the other slice of focaccia, garlic tomato paste side down. Press down gently to help the ingredients stick together.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a touch of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the focaccia is golden brown and crispy.
- In the last minute of grilling, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top of the sandwich, allowing it to melt.
- Once golden and crispy, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Slice the sandwich in half and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For an extra layer of flavor, add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Experiment with other cheeses like fontina or provolone.
- This sandwich pairs well with a side of mixed greens or a light salad.
