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Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

4.5 from 118 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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