Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe

Introduction

Pizza grilled cheese sandwiches combine the gooey, melted cheese and savory flavors of pepperoni pizza with the satisfying crunch of golden grilled bread. This easy recipe makes a delicious comfort food perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 thick slices sturdy bread such as sourdough or Italian
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 24 thin slices pepperoni

Instructions

1. Step 1: Mix the softened butter, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt until well combined to create the garlic butter.
2. Step 2: Spread the garlic butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
3. Step 3: On the unbuttered side of four bread slices, layer shredded mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, and pepperoni slices.
4. Step 4: Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.
5. Step 5: Heat a skillet over medium heat until warm.
6. Step 6: Cook each sandwich in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
7. Step 7: Slice sandwiches in half and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, press the sandwich with a spatula or use a panini press if available.
• Try adding sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives inside for more pizza toppings.
• Use fresh basil leaves instead of Italian seasoning for a brighter flavor.
• Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage or ham to change up the protein.

Storage

Store leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to maintain the crispy bread and melted cheese. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, mozzarella is classic for pizza flavors, but you can mix in provolone, cheddar, or fontina for extra flavor and meltiness.

What bread works best for these sandwiches?

Sturdy breads like sourdough, Italian, or a thick white bread hold up best and get nicely toasted without falling apart.

Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe

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4.6 from 141 reviews

These Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches combine the gooey, melty goodness of mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni with the rich flavors of garlic butter and parmesan on crispy, toasted bread. Perfect for a comforting lunch or quick dinner, they bring together the best of pizza and classic grilled cheese in one handheld delight.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Garlic Butter

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Sandwich Assembly

• 8 thick slices sturdy bread such as sourdough or Italian
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 24 thin slices pepperoni

Instructions

1. Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, forming a flavorful garlic butter spread.
2. Spread Garlic Butter: Using a knife or spatula, spread the prepared garlic butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This will be the exterior for crisping and flavoring the sandwich.
3. Assemble Sandwiches: On the unbuttered side of four bread slices, evenly layer the shredded mozzarella cheese first, followed by the pizza sauce, and then place the pepperoni slices on top. This order ensures even melting and distribution of toppings.
4. Top with Bread Slices: Place the remaining four slices of bread on top of the layered slices, making sure the buttered sides are facing outwards. This will create a crisp golden crust when cooked.
5. Heat Skillet: Place a skillet over medium heat and allow it to warm up. Using medium heat is essential to melt the cheese thoroughly without burning the bread.
6. Cook Sandwiches: Place each sandwich in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the mozzarella cheese inside is melted and gooey. Flip carefully to avoid spilling the filling.
7. Slice and Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice each in half for easier handling, and serve warm for the best gooey, crunchy experience.

Notes

• Use sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian to prevent sogginess.
• For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the pizza sauce before layering.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor in the garlic butter.
• Ensure the skillet is heated properly before adding sandwiches to achieve a crispy crust.
• You can substitute pepperoni with other favorite pizza toppings such as cooked sausage or vegetables.
• Cover the skillet with a lid briefly during cooking if cheese is not melting quickly.

Keywords: grilled cheese, pizza grilled cheese, pepperoni sandwich, melty cheese sandwich, garlic butter sandwich, easy lunch, quick dinner