Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich

This Pizza Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup for anyone who loves both pizza and grilled cheese. Gooey mozzarella, layers of pepperoni, and a zesty garlic herb butter turn everyday ingredients into a spectacular meal you will crave on repeat. Whether you are trying to please picky eaters or need a fast lunch idea, this recipe delivers all the joy of pizza night without turning on the oven.

The first time I made this my family hovered around the skillet and kept asking for more I had to make a second batch just to keep everyone happy

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: use super soft and fresh for even spreading and golden browning
• Grated Parmesan cheese: brings a nutty depth and extra savoriness look for real Parmigiano Reggiano for best flavor
• Garlic powder: for that unmistakable pizza shop aroma find a brand that smells extra pungent
• Dried Italian seasoning: adds a fragrant herby background go for blends with oregano and basil
• White bread: classic soft slices toast best and hug the fillings beautifully choose sturdy bakery style for best texture
• Mozzarella cheese: the heart of the melt use fresh slices for superior stretch and creaminess
• Pepperoni: for that signature pizza punch pick a bold flavorful brand and try mini slices for more coverage
• Pizza sauce: warm and rich for dipping find one with a thick texture and lots of tomato flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Butter Mixture:

In a medium bowl bring the butter close to room temperature then beat together with Parmesan garlic powder and Italian herbs until it is perfectly smooth and easy to spread

Butter the Bread:

Take each bread slice and coat one side generously with the seasoned butter mixture spread all the way to the edges for maximum crispy flavor

Assemble the Sandwich:

Heat a skillet over medium low place one slice of bread butter side down on the pan layer on a slice of mozzarella then neatly place six slices of pepperoni next add another mozzarella slice another set of pepperoni and finish with a final slice of cheese

Top and Cook:

Place a second slice of bread butter side facing up over the filling in the skillet grill slowly for three to five minutes keeping the temperature low so the bread turns golden and the cheese melts evenly once golden carefully flip the sandwich and repeat with the other side

Serve:

Once the cheese is molten and the bread is crisp remove from the skillet cut if desired and serve piping hot with a bowl of warm pizza sauce for dunking

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My favorite part has to be the cheesy pull when you cut into the sandwich It always sparks a little friendly competition over who gets the gooey stretchiest bite We have turned this into a weekly dinnertime tradition and the nostalgia of pizza night always comes rushing back

How To Store Leftovers

If you have extras let them cool completely before wrapping in foil or storing in an airtight container in the fridge Leftovers reheat well in a toaster oven or skillet so the bread crisps up again For freezing try making the sandwiches and wrapping tightly before grilling then cook straight from the freezer for quick lunches

Ingredient Swaps

You can get creative with your fillings Swap mozzarella for provolone or add a few slices of cooked mushrooms zucchini or sweet bell peppers Instead of pepperoni try salami or a vegetarian faux meat for a different flavor twist If white bread is not your favorite whole wheat or sourdough add a heartier taste

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Serving Ideas

Serve this sandwich with a cup of tomato soup for a nostalgic lunch experience Or turn it into a party platter with assorted dips like ranch pesto or spicy tomato salsa For a lighter meal pair with a fresh green salad or some roasted veggies on the side

Pizza Grilled Cheese Around the World

While this sandwich feels super American the combination of cheese and bread pops up in cultures everywhere From Italian panini to French croque monsieur you will find similar ideas around the globe blending gooey fillings and crispy golden outsides Each variation has its own signature cheeses and spices

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get the crispiest grilled bread?

Spread the butter mixture evenly and cook the sandwich over medium-low heat, allowing the bread to brown slowly and evenly without burning.

→ Can I substitute the pepperoni?

Yes, try sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for a vegetarian twist, or swap with cooked sausage for a different flavor.

→ What type of bread works best?

White sandwich bread crisps up nicely, but sourdough or Italian bread also add great texture and flavor.

→ Is there a cheese alternative to mozzarella?

Provolone or cheddar can be used for a unique melt and taste, though mozzarella offers the most classic texture.

→ Best way to serve this sandwich?

Serve hot and crispy with a side of warmed pizza or marinara sauce for dipping. A fresh salad or tomato soup complements it well.