Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Pizza grilled cheese combines the best of two beloved comfort foods into one melty, flavorful sandwich. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a perfect quick meal with familiar pizza toppings and gooey cheese inside crisp, buttery bread.

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

1. Step 1: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the buttered sides to enhance the flavor as the bread toasts.
2. Step 2: Place two slices of bread buttered side down on a flat surface. Spread marinara sauce evenly on the inside of each. Layer shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, turkey pepperoni, and any other toppings you like. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
3. Step 3: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula. Flip carefully and continue until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Step 4: Remove sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Slice in half and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm, with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, swap pepperoni for roasted veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
• Use a blend of cheeses like provolone and mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Press the sandwich down slightly while cooking to help the cheese melt evenly and create a crispier crust.
• Try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftover pizza grilled cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness, or microwave briefly but note the bread won’t stay as crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, any sandwich bread works well. Sourdough, white, or whole wheat are great choices, but feel free to try breadsticks or even ciabatta for a different texture.

What if I don’t have turkey pepperoni?

You can use any favorite pizza topping such as cooked sausage, ham, bacon, or keep it vegetarian with olives, mushrooms, or spinach.

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 99 reviews

This Pizza Grilled Cheese combines the comforting, melty goodness of classic grilled cheese with the bold flavors of pizza. Featuring a crispy, seasoned crust, gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, savory turkey pepperoni, and a rich marinara sauce, it’s a quick and satisfying twist that’s perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.

• Author: Zane
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

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Bread and Butter

• 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
• 2 tbsp butter (softened)

Pizza Fillings

• ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 slices turkey pepperoni (or your preferred topping)

Seasonings and Garnish

• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle the buttered sides evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to boost the pizza-like flavor that will enhance the sandwich as it toasts.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place two bread slices buttered side down on a flat surface. Evenly spread the marinara sauce on the exposed sides. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, turkey pepperoni slices, and any additional toppings you prefer. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
3. Toast the Sandwich: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwiches onto the pan. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, pressing lightly with a spatula to ensure good contact and even melting. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Slice the sandwich in half and garnish with chopped fresh basil for extra flavor. Serve immediately with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Use a lower heat to prevent burning the bread before the cheese melts.
• Substitute turkey pepperoni with vegetarian or other preferred toppings to customize.
• Fresh basil adds a bright, fresh finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
• For extra crispiness, press sandwich with a heavy pan or sandwich press during cooking.

Keywords: Pizza Grilled Cheese, Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Pizza Sandwich, Quick Lunch, Italian-American Recipe