Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Pizza grilled cheese is a delightful fusion of two comfort foods, combining crispy toasted bread with melty cheese and classic pizza toppings. It’s quick to make and perfect for a satisfying lunch or snack that everyone will love.

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 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 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 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down slightly with a spatula. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.
4. Step 4: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Slice in half and garnish with fresh basil if using. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Try using different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
• Add veggies such as sliced mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers inside for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use whole wheat or artisan bread for added texture and taste.
• Cook on low heat to ensure the cheese melts properly without burning the bread.

Storage

Store leftover pizza grilled cheese sandwiches wrapped in foil or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warm and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving 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 pepperoni or replace it with your favorite vegetarian toppings like roasted vegetables or sliced mushrooms.

What bread works best for this grilled cheese?

Sourdough, white, or whole wheat bread are all great options. Choose a sturdy bread that crisps well but still toasts evenly without falling apart.

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 80 reviews

This Pizza Grilled Cheese sandwich combines the gooey, melty goodness of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with savory turkey pepperoni and classic pizza seasonings, all toasted between buttery slices of bread. Easy to make and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it offers a delightful twist on traditional grilled cheese with the comforting flavors of a pizza in every bite.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Lunch
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American-Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread and Butter

• 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
• 2 tbsp butter (softened)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

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)
• 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 sides with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to infuse extra pizza flavor during toasting.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place two slices of bread buttered side down on a flat surface. Spread marinara sauce evenly on the inside of each slice. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, turkey pepperoni slices, and any additional toppings you prefer. Top with the remaining 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 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down slightly with a spatula to help the sandwich brown evenly. Flip carefully and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has fully melted.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Slice in half and garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Use sourdough or whole wheat bread for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Try substituting turkey pepperoni with vegetarian pepperoni or other favorite pizza toppings.
• Cook on medium-low heat to prevent burning the bread while ensuring cheese melts thoroughly.
• Butter the outside of the bread for a crispier, golden crust.
• Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the pizza flavor.

Keywords: Pizza grilled cheese, turkey pepperoni sandwich, cheesy pizza sandwich, easy grilled cheese recipe, quick lunch, melty cheese sandwich