Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on two classic favorites. Combining melty cheeses, savory pepperoni, and rich marinara sauce, it’s perfect for a comforting lunch or quick dinner. Ready in minutes, this sandwich brings the best of pizza in a gooey grilled cheese form.
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 butter on one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle the buttered sides evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor as the bread toasts.
- Step 2: Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Spread marinara sauce on the unbuttered sides of each slice. Layer shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, turkey pepperoni, and any additional toppings you like. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
- Step 3: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, gently pressing down with a spatula. Flip carefully to avoid fillings spilling out, and cook until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 4: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and allow them to rest for a minute. Slice in half, garnish with fresh basil if using, and serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian option, replace turkey pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers.
- Use a mix of cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a more complex flavor.
- Press the sandwich gently while cooking to ensure even melting and a crisp exterior.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes inside for a spicy kick.
Storage
Store leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crisp and cheese melted, or microwave briefly with a damp paper towel to avoid dryness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this sandwich?
Yes, any sturdy bread like ciabatta, multigrain, or even Texas toast works well. Just ensure it can hold the fillings without getting soggy.
How can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Simply swap the bread for your favorite gluten-free bread, and double-check that all other ingredients, like marinara sauce, are gluten-free as well.
PrintPizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
This Pizza Grilled Cheese recipe combines the best of two comfort foods into a deliciously melty sandwich with crispy buttered bread, savory marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and flavorful turkey pepperoni. Perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner, this skillet-toasted sandwich offers a delightful take on classic pizza flavors in an easy-to-make grilled cheese style.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Sandwich 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
- Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Then, sprinkle the buttered sides evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors as the bread toasts.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place two slices of the prepared bread buttered side down on a flat surface. Spread marinara sauce on the unbuttered side of each slice. Next, layer shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, and turkey pepperoni evenly over the sauce. Optionally add extra toppings if desired. Finally, top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing up.
- Toast the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwiches onto the hot surface. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula to help achieve even browning and ensure the cheese melts properly. Flip carefully to avoid spillage, cooking until the bread is a golden brown and the cheese is melted through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for about a minute to cool slightly. Slice each sandwich in half on the diagonal. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a bright flavor accent. Serve with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping to complete the pizza-inspired experience.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey pepperoni with vegetarian pepperoni or other favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Using medium-low heat is important to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
- For a crispier crust, press the sandwich with a spatula or use a panini press if available.
- Fresh basil is optional but adds a nice fresh herbal note.
- This sandwich is best enjoyed immediately to retain the melty cheese texture.
Keywords: pizza grilled cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, pizza sandwich, skillet grilled cheese, easy lunch recipe, melty cheese sandwich, pepperoni sandwich
