This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on the classic! Imagine melting cheese between crispy bread, with pizza flavors adding a tasty kick. Yum!
I love to dip mine in marinara sauce – it feels just like pizza night! If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some herbs on top for an extra touch. It’s all about comfort food made easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Use any bread you love! Sourdough gives a nice tang, while white bread is soft and classic. Whole wheat or even gluten-free bread works, too, if that’s your style.
Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is the star here for that gooey texture. You could mix in provolone or cheddar for a different flavor. Vegan cheese options are also available!
Pepperoni: I’m a big fan of classic pepperoni, but feel free to swap in your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. Cooked sausage or veggies can work well too!
Marinara Sauce: Any store-bought marinara is fine, but homemade is even better if you have the time. You can substitute with pizza sauce or even pesto for a twist!
Spices: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning add great flavors, but they’re optional! If you love fresh herbs, try adding chopped basil or oregano instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Grilled Cheese is Perfectly Golden Brown?
Getting that perfect golden brown crust while keeping the cheese melty can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you along!
- Make sure your skillet is preheated to medium heat. Too hot will burn the bread before the cheese melts.
- Use softened butter, so it spreads easily and coats the bread well for even browning.
- Check the color after 3 to 4 minutes. If it’s not golden enough, give it a little longer, but keep an eye on it!
- When flipping, use a spatula to carefully lift the sandwich from the edge; this helps prevent spills!
How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices of bread (your choice, such as sourdough or white)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices (or your preferred pizza toppings)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
Optional Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 7 to 8 minutes to cook. In just about 15 to 18 minutes total, you’ll have delicious Pizza Grilled Cheese sandwiches ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Pan:
Start by heating a skillet or griddle over medium heat. This helps to get a nice golden brown on your grilled cheese without burning it.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Spread softened butter generously on one side of each slice of bread. This will give your sandwiches a crispy, buttery exterior. If you want to add a little kick, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the butter.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Place half of the bread slices butter-side down in the skillet. Start layering by adding a handful of mozzarella cheese on top of each slice. Next, pile on the pepperoni slices (or your favorite toppings). Add a small spoonful of marinara sauce over the pepperoni, then finish with more mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Complete the Sandwiches:
Top the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up. Now you’re ready to cook!
5. Cooking Time:
Cook the sandwiches until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt, which will take about 3 to 4 minutes. Carefully flip each sandwich over. Then, cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on the other side until it’s golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. Yum!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them sit for a minute before slicing. This helps everything settle together. Serve hot, with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Pizza Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Cheeses for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its melty texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even a blend. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well for that gooey grilled cheese experience!
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños inside your sandwich. For a milder version, skip the pepperoni or opt for a milder topping like cooked bell peppers or mushrooms.
Can I Make This Grilled Cheese in the Oven?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare the sandwiches as directed but place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through until both sides are golden and crispy. This is a great method for making multiple sandwiches at once!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or pop them in a toaster oven for that crispy texture to return.
