Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Pizza grilled cheese is what happens when you cannot decide between two favorites This recipe is everything you love about pizza but with the crispy golden crunch and gooey comfort of grilled cheese It comes together fast and is always a huge hit on weekends or movie nights around here I have fun making these with my kids and we load them up with our favorite pizza toppings

The first time I tried this I made it as an after school snack for my daughter and her friends They devoured the sandwiches and asked for more so it quickly became one of our go to lunches

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: softened for a rich golden crust look for butter that is pale yellow and easy to spread
• Grated parmesan cheese: this amps up the savory flavor use freshly grated for best melting
• Italian seasoning: brings in those classic pizza herbs check your blend for oregano and basil
• Garlic powder: ties it all together with deep flavor choose a fresh jar for stronger taste
• Salt: a pinch wakes up all the flavor in the butter
• Sturdy bread: like sourdough or Italian holds everything in without getting soggy check for bakery bread with a thick crust
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: the gooier the better buy whole milk mozzarella and shred it yourself for better melt
• Pizza or marinara sauce: gives tang and that signature pizza taste select a thick sauce with plenty of herbs
• Pepperoni: thinly sliced for even cooking and bold flavor choose a spicy or mild version depending on your preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make Garlic Butter:

Mix the softened butter with parmesan cheese Italian seasoning garlic powder and salt in a small bowl Use a spatula to work these together until smooth and speckled with herbs This butter is the secret to fragrant crispy bread

Assemble Sandwiches:

Lay half the bread slices on a board Spread pizza sauce evenly over each slice making sure the edges are covered Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella Top with six slices of pepperoni for each sandwich and then cover with the remaining bread slices pressing gently

Spread Butter:

Slather a generous layer of the garlic butter on the outer sides of all sandwiches Make sure the butter reaches the edges This will create a golden crust and aromatic flavor

Grill:

Heat a sturdy nonstick skillet over medium heat Place the sandwiches butter side down into the pan Cook for about three to four minutes per side pressing gently until the crust is deep golden and cheese runs gooey from the sides Watch closely so the bread does not burn

Serve Hot:

Slice each sandwich in half straight from the pan Serve immediately with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping Watching the cheese pull away as you break the sandwich is always satisfying

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My favorite ingredient is the garlic butter which soaks into the bread and browns to perfection My daughter always wants the crispy edges and we sometimes fight over the cheesiest piece

Storage Tips

These sandwiches are best fresh but leftovers can be wrapped in foil and refrigerated for up to two days To reheat place in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat so the bread crisps up again and the cheese remelts I do not recommend microwaving as it can make the bread chewy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can skip pepperoni for a vegetarian option or try turkey pepperoni for less fat Dairy free cheese melts well if you want this sandwich vegan Switch up the mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a different flavor and do not hesitate to add any veggies you love on pizza

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sandwiches with a simple green salad or fresh fruit for balance On game day I love to cut them into small squares for party snacks Extra marinara on the side for dipping is a must and sometimes we sprinkle a pinch of red pepper for extra kick

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Cultural Note

This recipe is a playful twist on classic American grilled cheese and Italian pizza bringing two comfort foods together It is a fun project for kids to assemble and personalize I love how simple ingredients you probably already have can make something that feels like a treat

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cheese besides mozzarella?

Yes! While mozzarella melts beautifully, provolone or a blend with cheddar also works well for a unique twist.

→ What bread provides the best texture?

Sourdough or Italian bread hold up best when grilling, offering a sturdy, crispy exterior and chewy bite.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Omit the pepperoni or use a plant-based alternative and enjoy all the flavors in a vegetarian-friendly sandwich.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Customize with sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat.

→ How do I keep the sandwich crispy?

Spread garlic butter on the outer bread before toasting in a hot skillet; avoid overfilling to prevent sogginess.

→ Is there a dipping sauce you recommend?

Warm marinara or pizza sauce paired with these sandwiches offers the perfect flavor boost for dipping.