CRISPY PEPPERONI PIZZA PANINI WITH GOOEY MOZZARELLA
Here’s a recipe for a Crispy Pepperoni Pizza Panini with Gooey Mozzarella — it’s super satisfying, cheesy, and perfect for a quick meal!
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
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2 slices of good-quality Italian bread (like ciabatta, sourdough, or focaccia)
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1/4 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
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8–10 slices pepperoni
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or sliced fresh mozzarella for extra gooeyness)
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2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon butter (softened)
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
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Olive oil (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
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Prep the bread:
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In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
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Spread the garlic butter mixture on the outer sides of the bread slices (the side that will touch the panini press/skillet).
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Assemble the panini:
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On the non-buttered side of one slice, spread a thin layer of pizza sauce.
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Sprinkle half the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
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Layer the pepperoni slices on top.
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Add the rest of the mozzarella, and sprinkle with a little Parmesan for an extra flavor boost.
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Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
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Cook the panini:
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Preheat your panini press, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat.
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Place the sandwich on the panini press (or use a heavy skillet to press it down if using a pan).
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Cook for 3–5 minutes or until golden, crispy, and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
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Serve:
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Slice the panini in half, serve hot, and maybe dunk it in some extra warm pizza sauce!
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Notes
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Add extras like sautéed mushrooms, olives, or fresh basil for a gourmet twist.
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For extra crispiness, lightly brush the outside of the bread with olive oil in addition to butter.
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If you love spice, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes inside before grilling!