This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on a classic favorite! Picture crispy, buttery bread filled with gooey cheese and delicious pizza toppings like pepperoni and sauce.
It’s super easy to make—just grill it up until golden and cheese melts. I love serving it with a side of marinara for dipping. Let’s be real, who doesn’t love cheese and pizza together? 🍕🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Sourdough gives a nice tangy flavor, but you can swap it for white, whole wheat, or even a gluten-free option. Personally, I love using thick slices for a hearty bite!
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is classic here because it melts beautifully. Feel free to substitute with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavors.
Pepperoni: While pepperoni adds a nice kick, turkey or even veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms can work too. Vegetarian options can be just as delicious!
Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought for convenience, but homemade is a great option if you have the time. You can also try pesto or garlic butter for a different dip experience.
Italian Seasoning: It’s optional, but I recommend it for an extra flavor boost! If you don’t have it, a dash of oregano, basil, or even some red pepper flakes can do the trick.
How Can I Get My Grilled Cheese Extra Crispy?
The key to a perfectly crispy grilled cheese is all in the prep. Buttering your bread generously is essential! Here’s how to ensure you get that golden crust:
- Start with a medium heat to avoid burning the bread while the cheese melts.
- Keep the skillet well-greased with butter—not too little. It’ll help create a crisp outer layer.
- Gently press down on the sandwich with a spatula while cooking to promote even crispy textures.
- If you want even more crunch, consider using a combination of butter and a splash of olive oil.
How to Make a Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 slices of bread (your choice, such as sourdough or white)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your bread is ready and, if you’d like, sprinkle a little Italian seasoning into the cheese for extra flavor. Yum!
2. Butter the Bread:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. While it’s heating up, spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Remember, the buttered side will be the outside, so it gets nice and crispy while cooking!
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Once your skillet is hot, place two slices of bread in the skillet, butter-side down. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese evenly over each slice. Next, layer on the pepperoni slices, and then add the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, creating a delicious double layer of cheesy goodness!
4. Top and Cook:
Place the other two slices of bread on top of the cheese, butter-side up. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown. Gently press down with a spatula to help the sandwich become crispy.
5. Flip and Finish:
Carefully flip the sandwiches over, and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes, until it’s golden brown and the cheese is melted. The aroma will be irresistible!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Slice each sandwich in half and serve hot alongside marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for a pizza flavor, you can mix it up with provolone, cheddar, or even a little parmesan for added flavor. Just make sure to keep the total amount of cheese around 1 cup for the right meltiness!
What Bread Works Best for This Recipe?
Sourdough and white bread are fantastic options, but feel free to experiment! Whole grain, ciabatta, or even Texas toast will work. Just remember that sturdier breads might hold up better to the filling and get crispier!
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches?
If you have leftovers, wrap them in foil or place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and crispy again, or use a toaster oven!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the pepperoni and consider adding veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a tasty twist. You can also add some fresh basil or spinach for extra flavor!
