Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Enjoy a delicious twist on two classic favorites with this Pizza Grilled Cheese recipe. It combines gooey melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and tangy marinara sauce all toasted between buttery bread slices. Perfect for a quick lunch or comforting snack.

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 bread slice. Sprinkle the buttered side evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to add extra pizza flavor as it toasts.
2. Step 2: Place two bread slices buttered side down on a flat surface. Spread marinara sauce on the unbuttered sides, then layer mozzarella, Parmesan, turkey pepperoni, and any additional toppings you like. Top with the remaining bread slices, 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 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts completely.
4. Step 4: Remove sandwiches from the skillet and let cool for a minute. Slice in half and garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Try swapping turkey pepperoni for sliced mushrooms, olives, or cooked sausage for different flavors.
• Use a combination of cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a richer taste.
• Cook over medium-low heat to ensure the cheese melts fully without burning the bread.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes inside for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftover pizza grilled cheese sandwiches wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or a toaster oven to keep the bread crispy and cheese melted. Microwaving may result in soggy bread.

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 rye works well. Avoid very thin or soft bread, as it may get soggy with the sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the pepperoni and add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for a tasty meat-free version.

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 129 reviews

This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delicious twist on classic grilled cheese sandwiches, combining the flavors of a pizza with melted mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, turkey pepperoni, and marinara sauce all toasted between buttery slices of bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s easy to make and wonderfully flavorful.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Sandwiches
• 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 and Seasonings

• 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 bread slice. Sprinkle the buttered side evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to infuse extra pizza flavor into the bread as it toasts.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place two slices of bread on a flat surface, buttered side down. Spread marinara sauce on the inside of these slices. Next, layer the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, turkey pepperoni slices, and any additional toppings you prefer. Top with the remaining two bread slices, buttered side up.
3. Toast the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula to help the sandwich cook evenly. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread turns golden brown and all the cheese inside melts thoroughly.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing in half. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if using for an added burst of flavor. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

• Use thick-cut bread for a heartier sandwich that holds fillings better.
• Adjust the cooking heat to avoid burning the bread while ensuring cheese melts properly.
• Substitute turkey pepperoni with vegetarian pepperoni or other favorite pizza toppings to customize.
• For extra gooey cheese, add a little more mozzarella.
• Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Keywords: Pizza Grilled Cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, pepperoni sandwich, cheesy sandwich, easy lunch recipe, skillet sandwich