Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

If you love the gooey, melty comfort of grilled cheese and the bold, savory flavors of pizza, then the Pizza Grilled Cheese is about to become your new obsession. This delightful mashup brings together the best of both worlds with crispy, buttery bread enveloping layers of mozzarella, tangy marinara, pepperoni, and a sprinkle of herbs, creating a warm, satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor—a perfect indulgence for any time of day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun here, and each one plays an essential role in making your Pizza Grilled Cheese irresistibly delicious. From the creamy cheeses to the zesty herbs, every element adds its own texture, flavor, and color to this mouthwatering sandwich.

• 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat): Choose your favorite bread for that perfect crispy and tender balance.
• 2 tbsp butter (softened): Essential for golden, evenly toasted bread with a rich flavor.
• ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce: Adds tangy, savory depth to mimic the essence of pizza.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, stretchy star that makes every bite pure bliss.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty kick to elevate the cheese blend.
• 12 slices of turkey pepperoni (or your preferred topping): Provides a spicy, meaty punch that screams pizza.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Brings subtle, aromatic warmth throughout the sandwich.
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that perfectly captures that classic pizza flavor.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional): Freshens up the sandwich with a bright, herbal finish when added.

How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

First, gather all your ingredients so everything is ready to go. Spread the softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice; this will help ensure your grilled cheese browns beautifully. Grab your marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, pepperoni slices, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and basil for easy assembly.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

On the unbuttered side of two bread slices, evenly spread the marinara sauce. Sprinkle the garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the sauce for a flavor boost. Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella followed by the pepperoni slices. Top with the Parmesan and fresh basil if you’re using it. Carefully place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.

Step 3: Cook the Sandwich

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for even toasting and to help melt the cheese inside. Flip carefully once the first side is golden brown and crispy. When both sides are perfectly toasted and the cheese is melted, your Pizza Grilled Cheese is ready to enjoy.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Transfer the sandwich to a cutting board and let it sit for a minute to set. Then cut it diagonally or however you prefer. This step helps to contain the melty cheese and allows you to appreciate all those layers in every bite.

How to Serve Pizza Grilled Cheese

Garnishes

To add a little extra flair and freshness, consider sprinkling more chopped fresh basil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes atop your Pizza Grilled Cheese. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkling of grated Parmesan can also add a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Since this sandwich is quite hearty, pairing it with a fresh, crisp side like a green salad with a simple vinaigrette helps balance the richness. Baked sweet potato fries or a cup of warm tomato soup create a nostalgic, cozy complement that will round out your meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or fun twist, cut the Pizza Grilled Cheese into bite-sized sliders. You can also experiment with different bread types or add other pizza toppings like mushrooms, olives, or roasted peppers to customize each sandwich. Serving with little cups of extra marinara for dipping amps up the pizza vibes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Pizza Grilled Cheese leftovers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 days to keep that beautiful melt and texture intact.

Freezing

You can freeze assembled but uncooked sandwiches by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and foil, then placing in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as usual.

Reheating

For best results when reheating, toast your Pizza Grilled Cheese in a skillet over medium heat rather than microwaving, which can make the bread soggy. This method brings back the crispiness and ensures the cheese melts evenly.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella gives that classic stretch, you can mix in provolone, cheddar, or fontina for different flavors and textures. Just be sure they melt well.

Is turkey pepperoni the only topping that works?

Not at all! Feel free to use your favorite toppings like ham, cooked sausage, mushrooms, or even veggies. It’s all about making the Pizza Grilled Cheese your own.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the pepperoni and add extra veggies or substitute with plant-based meats. The marinara and cheese provide plenty of flavor.

What type of bread works best?

Sourdough is a great choice for texture and flavor, but white or whole wheat bread also work wonderfully. Choose what you like best or have on hand.

How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Be mindful not to overdouse the bread with sauce, and making sure the butter is spread evenly on the outside helps create that crisp outer layer.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Pizza Grilled Cheese, it’s going to be a game-changer for your comfort food cravings—it’s quick, easy, and every bite bursts with familiar, satisfying flavors you love. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend lunch, or feeding some happy kids, this sandwich fits the bill perfectly. So go ahead and fire up that skillet; your new favorite meal is waiting!

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