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Pizza grilled cheese sandwiches are my secret weapon when I need a quick comfort meal that never fails to put everyone in a good mood. Marrying the gooey melty joy of grilled cheese with the bold flavors of a pepperoni pizza, this recipe is pure nostalgia and cheesy satisfaction in each bite. Perfect for a family lunch or solo treat, these sandwiches are ready in a flash and always deliver.
I started making these on snowy afternoons when my kids could not agree on pizza or grilled cheese and now they look for excuses to request them I love how they disappear from the table in minutes
Ingredients
- Sourdough or thick white bread: Adds sturdy structure for all the fillings Look for fresh bakery slices with a soft crumb and crisp crust
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into dreamy stretches Choose low moisture blocks for best gooey texture and shred it at home if you can
- Pepperoni: packs bold pizza flavor with a little spice Look for pre-sliced from the deli or mini versions for fun
- Marinara or pizza sauce: Brings tang and savor to each bite Choose a brand with simple ingredients or make your own for deeper flavor
- Unsalted butter: Makes the sandwiches rich and perfectly crisp Use good quality butter and let it soften for easy mixing
- Italian seasoning: Adds herby warmth Check for a blend that smells fragrant and fresh
- Garlic powder: Boosts the pizza essence without overpowering Use a new jar for the strongest taste
- Salt: Brings out all the flavors Use fine sea salt to blend smoothly into the butter
Instructions
- Make the Garlic Butter:
- Mix softened unsalted butter with Italian seasoning garlic powder and salt in a small bowl until completely smooth The butter should smell fragrant with herbs and garlic and spread easily You can make extra and store for more sandwiches
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Lay out eight slices of bread on your counter Spread a thin layer of marinara onto four slices making sure to cover to the edges Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella over the sauce then top with about six to eight slices of pepperoni or enough to mostly cover the cheese Add a final sprinkle of mozzarella then cap each with the other bread slices
- Spread Garlic Butter:
- Spread the garlic herb butter evenly on the outsides of each sandwich Press gently so the butter adheres Right before grilling run your fingers along the crusts for full flavor coverage
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat Add sandwiches without crowding Cook for three to four minutes per side pressing gently with a spatula until each side is golden brown and the cheese inside is fully melted If you want extra crunch add a bit more plain butter to the pan before the next batch
- Serve:
- Slice sandwiches in half and serve while still warm For dipping serve extra marinara on the side I find a sprinkle of extra Italian seasoning on the plate makes them even more irresistible
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My favorite part of these sandwiches is always the crusty golden bread that soaks up a little bit of garlic butter with each bite Last winter my youngest decided these taste better in a fort under the kitchen table and now that is an unskippable step in our house
Storing and Reheating
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days To reheat use a skillet over low heat until the bread turns crisp again and the cheese remelts The oven at a low temperature also works Avoid microwaving if possible as it makes the bread tough
Ingredient Swaps
No sourdough on hand Try Texas toast or ciabatta Want to go vegetarian Swap pepperoni for sliced black olives or sautéed mushrooms Dairy free butter and vegan mozzarella melt nicely here Make the recipe your own with any favorite pizza toppings just slice them thin for easier melting
How to Serve
These sandwiches are wonderful alone but even better dipped into extra marinara Add a fresh green salad with tangy dressing or some roasted broccoli for a balanced meal If you are feeling classic think about a side of chips or a fizzy Italian soda
Pizza Meets Grilled Cheese
This mashup is rooted in the love of both American and Italian food Grilled cheese sandwiches date back to the early twentieth century but this pizza version is pure modern comfort food It is an easy way to channel Friday night pizza energy with nothing more than a pan and a craving for cheese
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Pizza grilled cheese are sure to be a hit whenever you want easy comfort food With crispy bread and melty cheese you will crave them again and again
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What bread works best for these sandwiches?
Sourdough or thick white bread is recommended for sturdy texture and excellent grilling results.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Mozzarella melts best, but provolone or a blend can be used for extra flavor.
- → How do I prevent the bread from burning?
Grill on medium heat and check frequently. Butter the bread evenly for a golden finish without burning.
- → Is there a vegetarian alternative to pepperoni?
Yes, you can omit pepperoni or use vegetarian slices for a meat-free option.
- → Can I prep these sandwiches ahead of time?
Assemble in advance, then grill fresh for the best texture and melted cheese.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well with this dish?
Classic marinara is ideal, but ranch or garlic aioli can offer variety.