Print

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

4.8 from 6 reviews

A delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, this Pizza Grilled Cheese combines crispy toasted bread, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, zesty marinara sauce, and savory turkey pepperoni for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a comforting snack, this recipe brings the flavors of pizza into a handheld, easy-to-make sandwich.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Butter

  • 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
  • 2 tbsp butter (softened)

Fillings

  • ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 slices of turkey pepperoni (or your preferred topping)

Seasonings and Garnish

  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Evenly sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the buttered sides to infuse the bread with extra pizza-flavored aroma and taste as it toasts.
  2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. On the unbuttered sides, spread about ¼ cup of marinara sauce on each slice. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, and turkey pepperoni evenly over the sauce. Add any additional preferred toppings. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up, to form two sandwiches.
  3. Toast the Sandwich: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the pan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on one side, gently pressing down with a spatula to compact the sandwich and ensure even toasting. Flip the sandwiches carefully, and cook an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute to cool slightly and set. Slice each sandwich in half diagonally. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired, and serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • You can substitute turkey pepperoni with other toppings like cooked sausage, mushrooms, or pepperoncini for different flavor variations.
  • Use a heavy skillet or a sandwich press for more even cooking and better melting of the cheese.
  • For a crispier crust, consider grilling the sandwich slowly on low heat to ensure thorough melting without burning.
  • Fresh basil is optional but adds a fresh herbal note that complements the pizza flavor beautifully.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled cheese, pizza sandwich, mozzarella, pepperoni, easy lunch, quick dinner, toasted sandwich, fusion recipe