Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Pizza grilled cheese combines the best of two comfort foods into one deliciously melty sandwich. With gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and classic Italian flavors, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
- 2 tbsp butter (softened)
- ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 slices of turkey pepperoni (or your preferred topping)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle the buttered side with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to add extra pizza flavor as it toasts.
- Step 2: Place two slices of bread on a flat surface, buttered side down. Spread marinara sauce on the inside surface of each slice. Layer mozzarella, Parmesan, turkey pepperoni, and any additional toppings you like. Top each with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Step 3: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted completely.
- Step 4: Remove sandwiches from the skillet and allow to cool for a minute. Slice each sandwich in half and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Use a mix of cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes to the marinara or sprinkle inside the sandwich before cooking.
- Press the sandwich with a heavy pan or sandwich press for a crispier crust and faster melting.
Storage
Store leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crispy and the cheese melted, or warm briefly in a microwave.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any bread you prefer, such as sourdough, white, whole wheat, or even a sturdy artisan bread. Just make sure it’s sliced evenly for consistent toasting.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil or Italian seasoning can work as a substitute. Alternatively, fresh parsley or oregano also complement the pizza flavors well.
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Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Pizza Grilled Cheese sandwich combining the comforting flavors of a classic grilled cheese with the vibrant taste of pizza toppings. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, this recipe layers marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, pepperoni, and Italian seasonings between buttery toasted bread for a melty, crispy treat.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
- 2 tbsp butter (softened)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Fillings
- ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 slices of turkey pepperoni (or your preferred topping)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Sprinkle the buttered side evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to infuse extra pizza flavor as the bread toasts.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean flat surface. Spread marinara sauce over the inside of each slice. Layer with shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, turkey pepperoni, and any additional toppings if desired. Cover with the remaining two slices of bread, buttered side up.
- Toast the Sandwich: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on one side, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure even toasting. Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has completely melted.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and allow them to cool for about one minute. Slice the sandwiches in half and garnish with freshly chopped basil for an added pop of flavor. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use thick slices of bread for a more filling sandwich.
- You can substitute turkey pepperoni with regular pepperoni, vegan pepperoni, or other preferred pizza toppings such as mushrooms or olives.
- Adjust the heat to medium-low during cooking to avoid burning the bread while ensuring the cheese melts properly.
- Adding fresh basil at the end enhances flavor but is optional.
- For a crispier sandwich, press gently with a spatula or use a panini press if available.
- Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the pizza experience.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pizza grilled cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, pizza sandwich, easy sandwich recipe, quick lunch, mozzarella sandwich, pepperoni sandwich
