Crispy, buttery sourdough meets the irresistible combination of savory Italian sausage and gooey melted cheese in this Italian Sausage Grilled Cheese. The rich flavors of provolone and mozzarella blend beautifully with the seasoned sausage, creating a sandwich that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe is easy to make and pairs wonderfully with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Whether you’re a grilled cheese enthusiast or just looking for a new sandwich to try, this Italian-inspired melt will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
Directions:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the mozzarella and provolone cheese together.
- Spread butter on one side of each sourdough slice, then sprinkle with dried oregano.
- Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in a skillet over medium-low heat. Top each with a portion of cheese, cooked sausage, and more cheese before placing the second bread slice on top (buttered side up).
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from heat, let it cool for a minute, and slice diagonally.
- Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 490 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
History and Background
Grilled cheese sandwiches have been a beloved comfort food for decades, but the addition of Italian sausage takes this classic to another level. The traditional grilled cheese, which gained popularity in the U.S. in the 1920s with the advent of sliced bread and affordable cheese, has evolved into endless variations.
Italian sausage, known for its bold flavor and seasoning with fennel and herbs, adds a delicious twist to the melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich. This fusion of Italian and American flavors creates a hearty meal that satisfies both cheese lovers and meat lovers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory flavors – The combination of Italian sausage, mozzarella, and provolone delivers a deep, cheesy, and slightly spicy taste.
- Crispy and melty texture – The buttery sourdough bread turns golden and crunchy while the cheese melts into perfection.
- Quick and easy to make – This sandwich takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a fast yet satisfying meal.
- Customizable – You can experiment with different cheeses, breads, and add-ons to personalize the recipe.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Sourdough bread – This provides a nice crunch, but you can substitute with French bread, ciabatta, or whole wheat for a healthier twist.
- Italian sausage – Use spicy Italian sausage for a little kick, or swap it for sweet Italian sausage if you prefer a milder taste. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage as a leaner option.
- Cheese choices – Mozzarella and provolone create a perfectly gooey texture, but you can try sharp cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Butter vs. mayonnaise – While butter adds richness, some people swear by using mayonnaise on the outer bread slices for an ultra-crispy crust.
Cooking Tips for the Best Grilled Cheese
- Use medium-low heat – This ensures the bread turns crispy without burning while the cheese melts properly.
- Press lightly while cooking – Gently pressing the sandwich with a spatula helps it cook evenly and get that restaurant-style texture.
- Let it rest before slicing – Giving the sandwich a minute to rest prevents the cheese from oozing out too quickly when you cut into it.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
Serving Suggestions
- Dipping sauces – Serve with warm marinara sauce or a creamy garlic aioli for extra flavor.
- Side dishes – Pair with a fresh side salad, tomato soup, or crispy French fries for a complete meal.
- Topping ideas – Add caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for even more layers of flavor.
Variations & Add-Ons
Want to experiment? Here are some creative takes on this recipe:
- Spicy Kick – Add a dash of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Pesto Lovers – Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on the inside of the bread before adding cheese.
- Mushroom & Onion Twist – Sauté mushrooms and onions for an earthy, umami-packed upgrade.
- Caprese-Style – Add fresh basil leaves and a slice of tomato to make it taste like a caprese sandwich.
Storage & Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to resist eating it all at once!), here’s how to store and reheat your grilled cheese:
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating – Warm it in a skillet over low heat to keep it crispy, or use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
What Makes This Sandwich Special?
This Italian Sausage Grilled Cheese is a next-level take on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. By adding savory Italian sausage and using two types of cheese (mozzarella and provolone), it creates a rich, cheesy, and satisfying meal. The bread is buttered and toasted to golden, crispy perfection, making every bite crunchy on the outside and gooey inside.
This sandwich is perfect for:
✅ A quick and satisfying weeknight dinner
✅ A comforting lunch that’s easy to prepare
✅ Game day snacks, family meals, or weekend brunch
The Origin of Grilled Cheese & Italian Influence
Grilled cheese sandwiches date back to the 1920s in America, when sliced bread and cheese became widely available. Over time, creative variations of the grilled cheese sandwich emerged, incorporating different cheeses, meats, and condiments.
This Italian-inspired version includes seasoned Italian sausage, commonly found in pasta dishes and pizza. The addition of mozzarella and provolone cheese gives it a melty, stretchy texture, making it reminiscent of a classic Italian panini.
Detailed Ingredient Breakdown & Substitutions
Bread Choice
- Sourdough (recommended) – Crispy, tangy, and holds up well to melting cheese
- Ciabatta – An Italian-style alternative with a slightly chewy texture
- French bread – Crispy and airy, great for extra crunch
- Whole wheat bread – A healthier option with a nutty flavor
Cheese Selection
- Mozzarella – Gives a perfect stretch and mild creaminess
- Provolone – Adds a slightly sharp, nutty taste
- Parmesan (optional) – A sprinkle of Parmesan before grilling adds a salty, crispy crust
- Alternative cheeses – Try cheddar for sharpness or gouda for a smoky twist
Italian Sausage Choices
- Mild Italian sausage – Balanced flavor with herbs and garlic
- Spicy Italian sausage – For heat lovers, adds a kick of spice
- Turkey or chicken sausage – A leaner option
- Vegetarian sausage – Swap in a plant-based sausage for a meatless version
Butter vs. Mayo for Toasting
- Butter – Traditional choice, adds rich flavor and golden crispness
- Mayonnaise – Creates an even crispier crust and is easier to spread
Step-By-Step Cooking Guide
1️⃣ Cook the sausage – Brown the sausage in a skillet, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease.
2️⃣ Butter the bread – Spread butter (or mayo) on one side of each slice.
3️⃣ Assemble the sandwich – Layer cheese, sausage, and more cheese between two slices of bread.
4️⃣ Grill it to perfection – Cook over medium-low heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese melts.
5️⃣ Serve hot – Slice and enjoy with warm marinara sauce for dipping!
Pro Tips for the Best Italian Sausage Grilled Cheese
✔ Use low heat – This prevents burning and allows the cheese to melt properly.
✔ Press the sandwich slightly – A gentle press with a spatula ensures even toasting.
✔ Let it rest before slicing – This helps the cheese set and prevents it from spilling out.
✔ Pair with marinara – Dipping in marinara sauce enhances the Italian flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! You can use chorizo, breakfast sausage, turkey sausage, or plant-based sausage as a substitute.
2. What if I don’t have sourdough bread?
You can use French bread, ciabatta, or any sturdy sandwich bread. Avoid soft white bread as it won’t hold up well to melting cheese.
3. What cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella and provolone are the classic choices, but you can experiment with cheddar, gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
4. Can I freeze this sandwich?
It’s best to freeze the cooked sausage separately. Grilled cheese doesn’t freeze well because the bread becomes soggy when thawed.
5. How do I make this a healthier version?
- Use whole wheat bread instead of sourdough
- Opt for turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork
- Use reduced-fat cheese
Conclusion
This Italian Sausage Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with an Italian twist. With crispy toasted bread, melty cheese, and flavorful sausage, it’s a delicious, satisfying meal for any occasion.
✔ Easy to make
✔ Perfect for lunch, dinner, or snacking
✔ Customizable with different cheeses and add-ons
Give this savory and cheesy sandwich a try and let us know how you like it! Tag us with your creation and share your favorite add-ons! 🧀🥪🔥