Fresh Mozzarella Sandwiches

Total Time

Prep: 25 min. Cook: 35 min.

Makes

4 servings

Updated: Jun. 27, 2023
As girls, my sisters and I always helped our mother make these hearty melted cheese sandwiches. Served with a robust tomato sauce for dipping, they made a quick, nutritious lunch or dinner. Nowadays, I prepare them for my husband and our two teen sons here on Long Island.

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes in puree
  • 1 teaspoon grape jelly
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • SANDWICHES:
  • 1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch slices
  • 8 slices sourdough bread (3/4 inch thick)
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan, saute onion in oil until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in the tomatoes, jelly, oregano, basil, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes, stirring several times.
  2. Meanwhile, for sandwiches, arrange cheese on four slices of bread to within 1/2 in. of edges. Top with remaining bread. In a shallow bowl, combine the eggs, milk, salt and pepper. Dip sandwiches in egg mixture.
  3. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add two sandwiches; toast over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining sandwiches and butter. Serve with tomato sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

1 each: 726 calories, 43g fat (23g saturated fat), 217mg cholesterol, 1615mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 4g fiber), 32g protein.