A Crispy, Cheesy, Comfort-Filled Sandwich
If you love lasagna and grilled cheese, why not combine them into one epic Lasagna Toastie? This crispy, golden sandwich is stuffed with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and crispy bread—all the deliciousness of lasagna in a handheld, easy-to-make meal.
I love this recipe because it’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack. It’s everything you love about lasagna without the wait!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: What bread works best for lasagna toasties?
Thick-cut sourdough, Italian bread, or Texas toast work best because they hold up to the saucy filling.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them ahead and store in the fridge, then pan-fry when ready.
Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the meat sauce for marinara with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
Q: What cheese melts best in a toastie?
Mozzarella for the classic stretch, but you can mix in provolone, cheddar, or parmesan for extra flavor.
Q: Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
What You Need to Make Lasagna Toasties
For the Filling:
- ½ pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or plant-based alternative)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheese Mixture:
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough, Italian, or Texas toast)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
How to Make Lasagna Toasties
Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix ricotta, parmesan, and dried basil until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Toasties
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Spread ricotta mixture on the unbuttered side of 4 slices.
- Add a layer of meat sauce, followed by shredded mozzarella.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread (buttered side facing out).
Step 4: Cook the Toasties
Skillet Method:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Cook each sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Air Fryer Method:
- Place sandwiches in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C).
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice in half and serve hot with extra marinara for dipping!
Tips for the Best Lasagna Toasties
✔ Use thick bread – It holds up better to the fillings without getting soggy.
✔ Let the filling cool slightly – This helps prevent the toastie from falling apart.
✔ Want extra crunch? – Sprinkle a little parmesan on the buttered bread before grilling.
✔ Make it extra cheesy – Mix provolone or cheddar with the mozzarella.
✔ For a spicy kick – Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “Wow! This was the best grilled cheese I’ve ever had. The flavors were spot on!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “So easy to make! The crispy bread and melty cheese were perfect.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “Loved the mix of ricotta and mozzarella! Definitely making again.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “Tried it in the air fryer, and it was amazing! The outside was super crispy.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “A fun twist on lasagna. Perfect for a quick dinner!”
Printable Recipe
Lasagna Toasties
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- ½ pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or plant-based alternative)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Cheese Mixture:
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough, Italian, or Texas toast)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix ricotta, parmesan, and dried basil until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Toasties
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Spread ricotta mixture on the unbuttered side of 4 slices.
- Add a layer of meat sauce, followed by shredded mozzarella.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread (buttered side facing out).
Step 4: Cook the Toasties
Skillet Method:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Cook each sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Air Fryer Method:
- Place sandwiches in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C).
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice in half and serve hot with extra marinara for dipping!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved these Lasagna Toasties, don’t keep them to yourself! Share them on social media, pin them on Pinterest, or send them to a fellow cheese lover. I’d love to see your versions—tag me if you try them!
