This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on the classic. It combines gooey cheese with zesty pizza flavors, all toasted to golden perfection. Who wouldn’t love that?
It’s like having a pizza party in your hands! I often stack extra pepperoni in mine. Trust me, it’s a cheesy hug you won’t want to miss. Perfect for a cozy snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Sourdough gives a nice texture and flavor, but white bread works too. For a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free bread, which toasts just as well!
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is my favorite for its melty goodness, but you can use shredded mozzarella for convenience. Other options like provolone or even cheddar provide a different take!
Pepperoni: Traditional, but if you’re vegetarian, try using sliced mushrooms or olives for a similar fun topping. Turkey pepperoni is a lighter substitute too!
Marinara Sauce: Perfect for dipping! If you’re short on time, store-bought is a great option. Homemade can be just as simple. A little extra seasoning can elevate its flavor!
Butter: I love using unsalted butter to better control the saltiness of the grilled cheese. If you’re dairy-free, margarine or a buttery spread works well too.
How Do I Get My Grilled Cheese Perfectly Toasted and Cheesy?
The secret lies in the cooking technique! Getting the right golden brown color while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly requires some attention. Start with medium heat to avoid burning while the cheese melts.
- Spread butter evenly, then preheat your skillet. A non-stick surface can help prevent sticking.
- Don’t rush the flipping! Waiting for the first side to brown before flipping ensures a crispy texture.
- If the cheese isn’t melting after flipping, lower the heat slightly and cover with a lid for a minute; this traps heat and helps the cheese melt without burning the bread.
How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of sourdough or white bread
- 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
- 4 slices of pepperoni
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
For Extra Flavor (optional):
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Pizza Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Start by preheating a skillet or griddle over medium heat. This will make sure your sandwich cooks evenly and gets that nice golden brown color.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Take your softened butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. If you want to add some extra flavor, mix the garlic powder and Italian seasoning into the butter before spreading it on the bread.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
In the hot skillet, place two slices of bread buttered side down. Now, layer two slices of mozzarella cheese right on top of the bread. Next, add two slices of pepperoni, and for an even cheesier treat, add another layer of mozzarella on top of the pepperoni.
4. Complete the Sandwich:
Top off your creation with another slice of bread, buttered side up. This will create a delicious grilled cheese sandwich!
5. Cook the Sandwich:
Let the sandwich cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Carefully flip it over and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until both sides are beautifully golden and the cheese is melted.
6. Repeat and Serve:
Once your first sandwich is ready, take it out of the skillet and repeat the process with the remaining bread, cheese, and pepperoni to make more sandwiches. When you’re all done, slice them into halves or quarters.
7. Enjoy with Marinara:
Serve your Pizza Grilled Cheese with the marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough and white bread work great, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as whole wheat, rye, or even a bagel for a fun twist. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings!
What if I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can substitute it with pizza sauce, ranch dressing, or even a simple mixture of ketchup and Italian herbs. It’ll still taste fantastic!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (though they’re hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat to maintain that crispy texture.
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the pepperoni and add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can even add some sliced olives for a richer flavor!
