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Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

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4.6 from 143 reviews

This delicious Pizza Grilled Cheese combines the best of both worlds: the gooey, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich with the bold flavors of a classic pizza. Featuring buttery toasted bread, savory marinara sauce, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and spicy turkey pepperoni, this quick and easy lunch recipe is perfect for satisfying your pizza cravings in sandwich form.

Ingredients

Bread and Butter

  • 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
  • 2 tbsp butter (softened)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning

Filling

  • 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)
  • 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. Sprinkle the buttered side with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to infuse extra pizza flavor as it toasts.
  2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a flat surface. Spread marinara sauce evenly on the inside of each slice. Layer shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, turkey pepperoni slices, and any extra toppings you prefer. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
  3. Toast the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down slightly with a spatula to ensure even grilling. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside is fully melted.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute to cool slightly. Slice each sandwich in half and garnish with freshly chopped basil for an extra burst of flavor. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Use your preferred type of bread for different textures and flavors; sourdough adds a tangy twist, whole wheat offers a healthier option.
  • For a vegetarian version, simply omit the turkey pepperoni and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers.
  • Adjust the heat level by swapping turkey pepperoni for spicy pepperoni or adding red pepper flakes.
  • To ensure the cheese melts thoroughly, use medium-low heat and cover the skillet briefly if needed.
  • Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped and reheated in a skillet or oven for best texture retention.
  • Fresh basil is optional but highly recommended for a fresh, aromatic finish.