Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Pizza Grilled Cheese is the perfect marriage of two beloved comfort foods. Crispy, buttery bread sandwiches a melty combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, pepperoni, and pizza sauce for a quick and satisfying meal 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

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

Tips & Variations

• Use different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a twist on the classic flavor.
• Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives to customize your pizza grilled cheese.
• For a crispier texture, try grilling the sandwich in a panini press instead of a skillet.
• Substitute turkey pepperoni with classic pepperoni, ham, or cooked Italian sausage for variety.

Storage

Store leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to restore crispness and melted cheese. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy bread.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the pepperoni and add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.

What kind of bread works best?

Sourdough, white, or whole wheat bread all work well. Choose a sturdier bread to hold up to the fillings and prevent sogginess.

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 72 reviews

This Pizza Grilled Cheese recipe combines the comforting flavors of a classic grilled cheese sandwich with the savory taste of pizza toppings. Featuring gooey mozzarella, tangy marinara sauce, turkey pepperoni, and a blend of Italian seasonings, this easy-to-make sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Toasted on a skillet until golden and melty, it’s a delightful twist on two beloved favorites.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Lunch
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread and Butter

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

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)

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 slice of bread. Sprinkle the buttered side evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to add extra pizza-inspired flavor as it toasts.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place two slices of bread buttered side down on a flat surface. Spread marinara sauce on the inside (unbuttered) side of each slice. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, followed by grated Parmesan cheese and turkey pepperoni slices or your preferred toppings. Finish by topping with the remaining two slices of bread, buttered side up.
3. Toast the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwiches on the pan. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, gently pressing down with a spatula to ensure even toasting and melting. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside has fully melted.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for about a minute to avoid burning your mouth. Slice each sandwich in half. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for an optional pop of fresh flavor. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.

Notes

• Use medium-low heat to prevent burning the bread while ensuring the cheese melts properly.
• Substitute turkey pepperoni with other toppings such as sliced mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• For an extra crispy crust, consider grilling the sandwich with a panini press if available.
• Fresh basil is optional but adds a nice herbaceous note to the sandwich.
• Ensure the butter is softened for easier spreading and more even coverage.

Keywords: Pizza Grilled Cheese, grilled cheese, pizza sandwich, skillet sandwich, mozzarella, pepperoni, easy lunch