Pizza Grilled Cheese combines the best of two comfort foods into one mouthwatering sandwich. With layers of gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a garlic-parmesan butter spread on crispy white bread, it’s a deliciously indulgent twist on a classic grilled cheese. Each bite delivers the flavors of a classic pizza with the crispy, buttery texture of a grilled sandwich.
The key to this recipe is in the garlic-parmesan butter, which is spread on each slice of bread to create a beautifully golden crust. Layering mozzarella cheese and pepperoni between slices of bread ensures an even, gooey melt with that signature pizza flavor. Cooking the sandwich on medium-low heat allows the cheese to melt perfectly without burning the bread.
Served with warm pizza sauce on the side, this sandwich is perfect for dipping, giving each bite a burst of tangy tomato flavor. It’s a fun, easy meal that’s sure to satisfy pizza lovers and grilled cheese fans alike!
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Grilled Cheese:
Quick and Easy: This recipe combines simple ingredients and minimal prep for a deliciously satisfying meal in just minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch, after-school snack, or easy dinner!
Melty, Gooey Goodness: The mozzarella cheese melts into a stretchy, gooey layer, just like the best part of any good pizza.
Flavorful Butter Spread: The Parmesan-garlic butter spread takes this grilled cheese to the next level, creating a golden, crispy crust with loads of flavor.
Customizable: You can switch up the fillings or try different cheeses to make it your own. Add veggies, substitute meats, or use your favorite herbs—anything goes!
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Key Ingredients:
Unsalted Butter: Very soft butter is easier to spread and creates a perfectly crisp, golden crust. The unsalted variety gives you better control over the saltiness, especially with added Parmesan.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty, slightly salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the mozzarella and butter, enhancing the “pizza” vibe.
Garlic Powder: This ingredient brings a mild garlic flavor that echoes the classic taste of garlic bread, a natural partner to pizza.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme, Italian seasoning gives the sandwich an authentic pizza flavor. You can also use your favorite dried herbs or make your own blend.
White Bread: White bread is ideal because of its soft texture and even browning. It crisps up nicely and creates the perfect “canvas” for the gooey cheese and savory fillings.
Mozzarella Cheese: Sliced mozzarella ensures even melting, creating that classic pizza cheese pull. Fresh mozzarella also works but may release more moisture; be sure to pat it dry if using.
Pepperoni: The pepperoni brings a spicy, savory kick that truly makes this sandwich taste like pizza. Feel free to use your favorite pizza toppings instead, such as cooked mushrooms or sliced olives.
Pizza Sauce: The pizza sauce on the side adds a tangy, tomatoey contrast that completes the pizza experience. Serve warm for the best dipping!
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
Directions:
1. Prepare the Butter Mixture
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix softened butter, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth and well combined. This flavorful spread will create a golden crust and add rich, savory taste to each bite.
2. Butter the Bread
Spread the Butter Mixture: Evenly coat one side of each bread slice with the butter mixture. Arrange the slices butter side up on a sheet tray for easy assembly.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
Layer in Skillet: Place a buttered slice of bread, butter side down, in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Layer with a slice of mozzarella, followed by 6 slices of pepperoni, another slice of mozzarella, 6 more pepperoni slices, and a final slice of mozzarella.
Top with Bread: Place another buttered slice on top, butter side up, and gently press with a spatula to secure.
4. Cook Until Golden
Grill the Sandwich: Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is fully melted. If needed, reduce the heat and cover briefly to help melt the cheese.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Cut and Dip: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and cut in half. Serve immediately with warm pizza sauce on the side for dipping, adding a tangy, delicious contrast to the cheesy, pepperoni-filled sandwich.
Serving Suggestions:
This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a meal in itself, but here are some ideas for pairing and serving:
Simple Side Salad: A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sandwich.
Soup Pairing: Tomato soup is a classic grilled cheese partner and complements the pizza flavors perfectly. You can also try it with minestrone or Italian wedding soup.
Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan on top for a little extra spice and flavor.
For a more filling meal, pair this sandwich with roasted vegetables, a pasta salad, or a plate of crunchy veggies and dip.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips:
These Pizza Grilled Cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh from the skillet, but if you have extras or want to meal-prep, here are some tips:
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the bread may soften slightly in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the sandwiches in a skillet over medium-low heat until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. Avoid the microwave, as it may make the bread too soft. Alternatively, you can reheat in a toaster oven for a few minutes at 350°F.
Recipe Variations to Try:
This recipe is easily customizable to suit your favorite pizza flavors! Here are a few fun variations:
1. Veggie Pizza Grilled Cheese
Add a layer of sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives along with the mozzarella cheese. This version is great for veggie lovers and brings extra color and flavor.
2. Hawaiian Pizza Grilled Cheese
Add a few slices of pineapple with the pepperoni or swap for Canadian bacon to create a Hawaiian-inspired twist. The sweet and savory combo is irresistible!
3. Margherita Pizza Grilled Cheese
Use fresh mozzarella and add a few fresh basil leaves for a Margherita-inspired version. You can also add a few tomato slices if desired.
4. Four Cheese Pizza Grilled Cheese
Mix up your cheeses! Try a blend of mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and cheddar for a rich, cheesy explosion of flavors.
5. Spicy Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese
Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes inside the sandwich or use spicy pepperoni for an extra kick. This variation is perfect for spice lovers!
Conclusion:
This Pizza Grilled Cheese is the ultimate mashup of two beloved comfort foods. The crispy, herbed bread, gooey mozzarella, and savory pepperoni come together to create a warm, cheesy experience that tastes just like a pizza! Whether you’re serving it with a side of soup, salad, or simply enjoying it on its own, this sandwich is sure to satisfy.
So next time you’re craving pizza but want something quicker, grab your skillet and make this easy, delicious Pizza Grilled Cheese. Enjoy every gooey, crispy, pizza-flavored bite!
Pizza Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter very soft
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 8 slices white bread
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese
- 6 oz pepperoni about 24 slices
- warm pizza sauce for dipping
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix softened butter, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth and well combined.
- Evenly coat one side of each bread slice with the butter mixture. Arrange the slices butter side up on a sheet tray for easy assembly.
- Place a buttered slice of bread, butter side down, in a skillet over medium-low heat. Layer with a slice of mozzarella, followed by 6 slices of pepperoni, another slice of mozzarella, 6 more pepperoni slices, and a final slice of mozzarella. Top with another buttered slice, butter side up, and press gently.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Flip with a spatula and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is melted. If needed, reduce the heat and cover briefly to melt the cheese.
- Remove from the skillet, cut in half, and serve with warm pizza sauce on the side for dipping.