Get ready for a fun twist on your favorite grilled cheese with this pizza grilled cheese! It features gooey cheese and zesty pizza sauce, all grilled to crispy perfection.
This sandwich is like a pizza and a grilled cheese had a delicious baby! I love making this when I’m craving both, and it’s super easy to put together.
Pair it with some extra marinara for dipping, and you’ve got a tasty meal that feels fancy but takes just minutes to make. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend using sourdough for its tangy flavor and sturdy texture, which holds up well to grilling. White bread works too! If you want a healthier option, whole grain or gluten-free bread can be used.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that classic stretchy cheese feel. If you’re looking for a sharper flavor, try using provolone or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar.
Pepperoni: I love using traditional pepperoni for that classic pizza taste. For a healthier take, turkey or veggie pepperoni makes a great substitute. You can even swap it out for cooked sausage or grilled vegetables!
Marinara Sauce: Homemade marinara is fantastic, but store-bought works just as well and saves time. If you prefer a spicier kick, try arrabbiata sauce or a pesto dip.
Butter: Softened butter is key for a golden crust. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute, which gives similar results.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Grilled Cheese?
Achieving the right crunch on your Pizza Grilled Cheese involves a few important steps. Start with a medium heat to ensure the bread cooks evenly without burning. Here are my tips:
- Spread the butter generously but not too thick—just enough to coat the bread.
- Keep an eye on the color; it should turn golden brown. If it’s browning too quickly, lower the heat!
- For extra crispness, you can press the sandwich down slightly with a spatula while it’s cooking.
- Flip gently to avoid spilling the cheesy goodness inside. A good non-stick skillet will help prevent sticking!
Letting the sandwich cool for a minute before slicing helps the cheese set, making it easier to cut without everything oozing out.
How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices of bread (white or sourdough)
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of sliced pepperoni
- 4 tablespoons of butter (softened)
For Dipping:
- 1/2 cup of marinara sauce
Optional Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pizza Grilled Cheese recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time, you’ll have a warm, cheesy sandwich ready to dip in marinara sauce. Perfect for a quick meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skillet:
Start by heating a non-stick skillet over medium heat. This will get your cooking area ready for that crispy, delicious grilled cheese.
2. Butter the Bread:
Take two slices of bread and spread softened butter on one side of each slice. The butter helps the bread turn golden brown while cooking.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Place one slice of bread butter-side down onto the hot skillet. Now, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bread in the skillet. Then, layer the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese and finish by adding the remaining mozzarella cheese. Top with another slice of bread, making sure the butter side is up.
4. Cook the Sandwich:
Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom slice is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes until it’s also golden and the cheese has melted. You can use a spatula to help with the flip.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing it in half. Serve it warm with marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy your tasty Pizza Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltability, you can mix it up with other cheeses like cheddar for a sharper flavor, or provolone for a bit of tang. Just keep the total amount of cheese to about 1 cup for the best gooey result!
What Bread Works Best for This Recipe?
While white or sourdough bread is ideal, you can use any type you have on hand, like whole wheat, ciabatta, or even gluten-free bread. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings and won’t fall apart during cooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally, until heated through. You can also use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes if you prefer them extra crispy!
Can I Add More Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your Pizza Grilled Cheese by adding ingredients like sliced olives, bell peppers, or even fresh basil. Just be mindful not to overload the sandwich, as too many toppings can make it difficult to grill properly.
