If you’ve ever stood between the crossroads of craving pizza or grilled cheese, this Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe is the delicious answer you’ve been waiting for! Each bite is packed with gooey mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy, buttery bread—and a generous layer of pepperoni takes this comfort food mashup to the next level. Perfect for quick lunches, lazy dinners, or when you just want to treat yourself, this is the kind of meal that makes you smile from the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe calls for just a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one plays a starring role. Every component contributes flavor, texture, or that little touch of nostalgia that makes this sandwich so comforting.
- Italian or sourdough bread: Sturdy and full of character, these slices give structure and a satisfying crunch after grilling.
- Butter (softened): For that rich, golden crust that makes grilled cheese irresistible—don’t skimp here!
- Pizza sauce: Adds tangy, herby goodness and gives that unmistakable “pizza night” flavor. Keep a little extra on hand for dipping.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings the ultimate gooey melt; nothing says “pizza” or “grilled cheese” quite like mozzarella.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled in for a salty, nutty kick that amps up every bite.
- Pepperoni slices: Classics for a reason—pepperoni delivers bold, savory flavor that shines in this mashup.
- Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of these dried herbs makes the kitchen smell heavenly and gives extra depth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a spark of heat, add as much (or as little) as you like.
How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Start by taking your four slices of Italian or sourdough bread and generously spreading softened butter on one side of each slice. This buttery layer guarantees that perfectly golden, crisp exterior every grilled cheese needs.
Step 2: Add the Pizza Sauce
Flip two slices over so the unbuttered side faces up, and slather each with an even layer of pizza sauce. Don’t hold back—this is where the signature pizza flavor comes through. If you’re a dipper, set aside a bit more sauce for serving later.
Step 3: Layer the Cheeses and Toppings
Sprinkle a thick, even blanket of shredded mozzarella onto the saucy bread, followed by a hearty handful of pepperoni slices. Next, add the grated Parmesan, a pinch of Italian seasoning, and a scattering of red pepper flakes if you want a kick. The combination of cheeses and toppings creates that blissful, melty center with all those classic pizza notes.
Step 4: Assemble and Grill
Top each loaded-up slice with the remaining bread, this time buttered side facing out. Gently press the sandwiches together. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium—hot enough to sizzle, but not so hot that the bread burns before the cheese melts. Cook each sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. You’re looking for deep golden, crisp bread and an oozy, melted filling.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once your Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe sandwiches are golden brown and irresistible, transfer them to a cutting board. Slice in half (or, dare I say, into pizza-style triangles!), and serve piping hot with that extra pizza sauce for dipping on the side.
How to Serve Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Give your sandwich a restaurant-worthy flourish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or freshly chopped basil. A drizzle of olive oil or a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes adds even more eye-catching appeal—and flavor!
Side Dishes
This Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe pairs perfectly with a classic tomato soup, but it’s also wonderful alongside a crisp Caesar salad or roasted veggies. For the ultimate comfort food spread, serve with kettle chips or a cold, bubbly soda.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your sandwiches into strips for sharing platter-style, or use cookie cutters to make kid-friendly shapes. Stack mini-triangles onto skewers for a playful party appetizer—just don’t forget the pizza sauce dipper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with a leftover half (unlikely, but possible!), let the sandwich cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or storing in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to two days, ready for a quick snack or easy lunch.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe sandwiches after grilling. Wrap each cooled sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To recapture that fresh-from-the-pan crispness, warm your sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping until hot and crunchy on both sides. Alternatively, pop it on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch but the bread won’t be as crispy.
FAQs
Can I customize the fillings in this Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! Swap out pepperoni for cooked sausage, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, or any of your favorite pizza toppings. Just be sure to use cooked and drained ingredients to prevent the sandwich from getting soggy.
What’s the best bread to use?
Sturdy slices like Italian or sourdough are ideal—they hold up to the sauce and cheese without falling apart. Other options like French bread or even a rustic country loaf can work just as well.
Can I make this Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe in a panini press?
Yes! Using a panini press gives you beautifully even crisping and those gorgeous grill marks. Just build your sandwich as directed and cook for the same amount of time, checking that the cheese is fully melted inside.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply skip the pepperoni or substitute with sliced olives, roasted peppers, or artichoke hearts. The Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe is every bit as delicious with veggie toppings.
Can I use marinara sauce instead of pizza sauce?
Definitely—marinara is a fine stand-in if you don’t have pizza sauce on hand. You might want to add a pinch of Italian seasoning to boost the flavor and keep things tasting pizza-perfect.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something melty, cheesy, and wildly satisfying, you can’t go wrong with this Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe. Whether you follow the classic version or jazz it up with your favorite toppings, this dish is guaranteed to be a repeat request in any kitchen—so grab your skillet and dig in!
Print
Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate cheesy comfort food with this Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe. It’s a delightful fusion of pizza flavors in a classic grilled cheese sandwich, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 4 slices of Italian or sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Filling:
- 1/3 cup pizza sauce (plus more for dipping)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 slices pepperoni
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation: Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Cooking: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serving: Slice and serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Assembling: On the unbuttered side of two slices, spread a layer of pizza sauce. Top with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with your favorite pizza toppings like cooked sausage, mushrooms, or olives.
- Use marinara if pizza sauce isn’t available.
- For a crispier texture, cook over medium-low heat to ensure the cheese fully melts without burning the bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 940 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
