Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese

As a vegetarian for over a decade, I have become quite the connoisseur of grilled cheese sandwiches. The best ones have a generous amount of perfectly melted cheese sandwiched between two thick pieces of crispy, golden brown bread. My favorite grilled cheese sandwiches, however, branch out from the typical cheese-and-bread combo: Add some pesto, berries or avocado, and I am all in.

This spinach artichoke grilled cheese sandwich is my new favorite. It combines a perfectly melted mozzarella grilled cheese sandwich with a creamy and indulgent sandwich spread inspired by spinach artichoke dip. Sandwiched between two thick slices of sourdough bread, each bite of this grilled cheese sandwich is packed with savory flavor.

Ingredients for Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese

• Spinach artichoke dip spread: This grilled cheese gets its spinach artichoke dip flavor from a mixture of cream cheese, wilted fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.
• Mayonnaise: The secret to a perfectly crisped grilled cheese is mayo slathered on the outside of the bread. Because mayo has a higher smoke point than butter, it helps the bread brown evenly. The higher smoke point also allows you to cook the grilled cheese at a higher temperature, which fully melts the cheese.
• Mozzarella cheese: This grilled cheese is made with shredded mozzarella cheese. For even melting, use freshly grated cheese from a block of hard mozzarella, which lacks the additives found in bagged shredded cheese.
• Sourdough bread: For a hearty sandwich, use thick slices of sourdough bread.

Directions

Step 1: Make the spinach artichoke spread

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach, and cook it until it’s wilted, four to five minutes. Transfer it to a colander, and use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press out the liquid.

In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Stir in the artichokes and prepared spinach.

Editor’s Tip: If you prefer, you can use frozen chopped spinach in place of the fresh spinach. Use a 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach, thawing and squeezing out all of the liquid before using it in the recipe.

Step 2: Build the sandwiches

Spread the mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. Place four of the slices of bread, mayo-side down, on a work surface. Spread about 1/2 cup of the spinach-artichoke spread on each piece of bread. Top each slice with 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Top these with the remaining slices of bread, mayo side facing out.

Step 3: Griddle the sandwiches

Cook the sandwiches, one or two at a time, in a large skillet over medium heat until they’re browned and crispy, three to four minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches. Slice each sandwich in half with a serrated knife, and serve them immediately.

Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese Variations

• Add spice: If you like things on the spicier side, stir 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the spinach artichoke dip mixture.
• Change up the cheese: Other options for melting cheeses include provolone, fontina and white cheddar.
• Use premade dip: This grilled cheese sandwich is a great way to use up leftover spinach artichoke dip. You can also streamline prep by using store-bought spinach artichoke dip.

How to Store Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese

Although grilled cheese sandwiches taste best when eaten immediately, you can store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you have leftover spinach artichoke spread, store it in a separate container in the fridge for up to four days.

Can you reheat a grilled cheese?

Absolutely! For the best texture, reheat the sandwiches slowly over low heat in a skillet or oven until the cheese is melted through. You can also microwave leftover sandwiches for a really quick fix, but the bread will get soggy.

Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese Tips

What can you serve with spinach artichoke grilled cheese?

There are tons of delicious sides for sandwiches that work well with spinach artichoke grilled cheeses. Some of our favorites include the perfect bite fruit salad, a fresh green salad or crunchy sweet potato chips. Alternatively, opt for a classic grilled cheese pairing and serve them with tomato soup.