Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Pizza grilled cheese is a fun and delicious twist on the classic sandwich, combining the gooeyness of melted cheese with the savory flavors of pepperoni and marinara sauce. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack that feels like a mini pizza.
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 slice of bread. Sprinkle the buttered side with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to add extra pizza flavor as it toasts.
- 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 bread slices, buttered side up.
- 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 slightly with a spatula. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Step 4: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Slice in half and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Swap turkey pepperoni for classic pepperoni, ham, or even sautéed vegetables for a different flavor profile.
- Use a cast iron skillet for an evenly toasted crust and perfectly melted cheese.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Try different cheeses like provolone or asiago for unique tastes.
Storage
Store leftover pizza grilled cheese 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 to restore crispiness and melt the cheese, or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the bread crispy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the turkey pepperoni and add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to keep it delicious and meat-free.
What kind of bread works best?
Sourdough, white, or whole wheat breads all work well. Choose a sturdy bread that toasts nicely without getting soggy, ensuring a crisp, golden exterior.
PrintPizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
A delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, the Pizza Grilled Cheese combines gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, flavorful turkey pepperoni, and tangy marinara sauce between perfectly toasted, seasoned bread slices. This easy skillet recipe brings all the beloved flavors of pizza into a comforting, handheld meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
For the Sandwich
- 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 turkey pepperoni (or 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. Sprinkle each buttered side evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to infuse the bread with a rich, pizza-inspired flavor as it toasts.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Lay two slices of bread buttered side down on a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce on the unbuttered sides of both slices. Evenly distribute shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, and turkey pepperoni over the sauce. Add any extra toppings if desired. Place the remaining two slices of bread on top, buttered side facing up.
- Toast the Sandwich: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the pan. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, pressing down slightly with a spatula to ensure even browning and melting. Flip carefully once the bottom is golden brown. Continue cooking until the second side is also golden and the cheese inside has melted completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for about a minute to set. Slice each sandwich in half and garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of herbal freshness. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use thick slices of sturdy bread like sourdough for best texture and to avoid sogginess.
- You can swap turkey pepperoni for vegetarian pepperoni or other pizza toppings like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Adjust the heat to low-medium if the bread browns too quickly before the cheese melts.
- For a crispier sandwich, press the sandwich gently with a spatula or a weight while cooking.
- Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.
Keywords: Pizza Grilled Cheese, grilled cheese recipe, pizza sandwich, easy lunch recipe, skillet sandwich
