Combine the best of two comfort food favorites—pizza and grilled cheese—for a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to please! This Pizza Grilled Cheese is loaded with gooey melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and marinara sauce, all tucked inside crispy, golden-buttered bread. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack!
Ingredients for Pizza Grilled Cheese (Serves 2)
- Bread (4 slices)
Choose sturdy bread like sourdough, Italian, or whole-grain for the perfect crunch. - Butter (2 tablespoons, softened)
For spreading on the bread to achieve that golden crust. - Marinara or Pizza Sauce (4 tablespoons)
Provides the classic pizza flavor. - Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded or sliced)
The melty star of the sandwich. - Pepperoni Slices (8-10, or more to taste)
For that authentic pizza topping vibe. - Parmesan Cheese (optional, 2 tablespoons, grated)
For extra cheesy goodness. - Italian Seasoning (optional, ½ teaspoon)
Adds a classic herby kick.
Optional Toppings
- Olives, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms for added veggies.
- Cooked sausage or ham slices for extra meatiness.
How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Prep the Bread
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Sprinkle the buttered side with a little Parmesan cheese (optional) for an extra crispy and cheesy crust.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
- Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, on a plate or cutting board.
- Spread 1-2 tablespoons of marinara sauce on the unbuttered side.
- Layer with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and any additional toppings you like.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Add another slice of bread on top, buttered side up.
Step 3: Cook the Sandwich
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully flip the sandwich and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, pressing gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt evenly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy!
Equipment Needed
- Skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Knife for slicing
Tips for the Best Pizza Grilled Cheese
- Low and Slow: Cook over medium heat to ensure the bread gets crispy without burning while the cheese melts.
- Custom Fillings: Add your favorite pizza toppings—get creative!
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella is traditional, provolone, cheddar, or a cheese blend works beautifully too.
- No Pepperoni?: Swap it for salami, turkey, or go vegetarian with just veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Assemble the sandwich, then cook in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use a different sauce?
Absolutely. Pesto or alfredo sauce works great for a twist on the classic.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread, and check that your marinara sauce and toppings are gluten-free.
Can I prep this in advance?
You can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate them. Cook just before serving for the best texture.
What goes well with this dish?
Serve with a side salad, soup (like tomato or minestrone), or veggie sticks for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a quick, satisfying dish that’s perfect for pizza and grilled cheese lovers alike. With its crispy, cheesy goodness and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. I hope you enjoy this recipe! Don’t forget to share it on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for your next comfort food craving. 😊
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