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If you are craving a nostalgic treat with a fun twist, this Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. Combining the melty, gooey allure of classic grilled cheese with the irresistible flavors of a pizza, these sandwiches bring together rich mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and savory Italian-seasoned butter on perfectly toasted bread. It’s comfort food reinvented in the most delightful, satisfying way, offering a quick-cooking option that hits every craving spot with ease and pizzazz.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role: from the creamy mozzarella that delivers rich melty goodness, to the pepperoni that adds a punch of savory spice, and the herby, cheesy butter that crisps the bread to perfection with layers of flavor.
- Unsalted Butter, 1/4 cup, softened: This provides the luscious base for the garlic-Italian seasoning butter that crisps the bread beautifully without overpowering it.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese, 4 tablespoons: Infuses a sharp, nutty flavor into the buttery spread, elevating the sandwich’s taste profile.
- Italian Seasoning, 1 teaspoon: Adds fragrant Mediterranean herbs that bring warmth and a little zest to every bite.
- Garlic Powder, 1/2 teaspoon: Gives a subtle yet irresistible garlicky aroma and flavor that complements pizza sauce perfectly.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Enhances all other flavors and balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Sturdy Bread, 8 thick slices: Choose sourdough or Italian bread for their firm structure and slightly tangy taste, perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, 1 1/2 cups: The star dairy ingredient that melts into a silky, stretchy layer between the bread slices.
- Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce, 1/2 cup: Adds tangy tomato sweetness with herbs, bringing that unmistakable classic pizza vibe to the sandwich.
- Pepperoni Slices, 24 thin slices: Lends a bold, slightly spicy note and a meaty texture, making each sandwich feel indulgently complete.
How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Butter
Start with a small mixing bowl where you’ll blend the softened unsalted butter, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Mix everything together thoroughly until the flavors are evenly distributed. This butter will be the key to that crisp, flavorful crust you’re dreaming of.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Take four slices of your sturdy bread and spread a thin layer of pizza sauce or marinara sauce on each one. Then sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella cheese to cover the sauce generously. Next, layer 6 slices of pepperoni over the cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices to close the sandwiches, creating perfect little pillows of pizza magic.
Step 3: Butter the Outer Sides
Using a spatula or knife, generously spread the prepared garlic parmesan butter over both outer sides of every sandwich. This step ensures that each sandwich crisps up beautifully and absorbs those mouthwatering herb-and-cheese flavors as it cooks.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the sandwiches inside. Grill each side for 3 to 4 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula. You want that bread to turn a golden, crunchy brown while the mozzarella melts completely inside. Resist the urge to rush this step—you’re creating the perfect texture balance here.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and slice each in half diagonally for easy handling and a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, offer some warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping. It’s beyond delicious!
How to Serve Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Although these sandwiches are delicious on their own, a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can poke up the flavor and add a fresh or spicy dimension. A light dusting of Parmesan on top makes for an elegant finish and a burst of cheesy goodness right as you dig in.
Side Dishes
Complement your Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables, garlic aioli-dipped fries, or even a bowl of homemade tomato soup will pair beautifully, turning this dish into a complete, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the sandwiches into small, bite-sized squares for party platters or game day snacks. Serve on a rustic wooden board with little bowls of extra marinara sauce, a sprinkle of oregano, and some colorful pepper slices for an inviting, interactive experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe treats can be stored tightly wrapped in plastic or foil in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep them well-sealed to maintain their moisture while avoiding sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to save some sandwiches for later, wrap them individually in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to one month, ready to be pulled out and reheated when that pizza plus grilled cheese craving strikes.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your sandwiches is in a skillet over medium-low heat, pressing gently until warmed through and crispy once more. Avoid the microwave for reheating if you want to preserve that coveted crunch and gooey cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its meltiness and mild flavor, feel free to add provolone or even a bit of sharp cheddar for a deeper, more complex taste profile.
What kind of bread works best with Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe?
Sturdy, thicker slices like sourdough or Italian bread hold up best without getting too soggy and provide a nice chewy texture that contrasts with the melty cheese inside.
Is there a vegetarian version I can try?
Yes! Simply omit the pepperoni and consider adding your favorite veggies like sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian twist on this recipe.
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time and grill later?
You can assemble the sandwiches ahead and refrigerate them, but for the best texture, grill them fresh. If pressed for time, assemble, wrap tightly, and grill when ready to eat.
Why do we use garlic parmesan butter on the outside of the sandwiches?
That special butter blend crisps up the bread beautifully and infuses every bite with irresistible savory, cheesy, and herby flavors, making these sandwiches stand out from your average grilled cheese.
Final Thoughts
If you love the comforting charm of grilled cheese and the bold flavors of pizza, trying the Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe is a no-brainer. It’s quick, satisfying, and an absolute joy to eat. Whip this up for an easy lunch, dinner, or game-day snack and watch it become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine!
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Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches combine the cheesy goodness of a classic grilled cheese with the savory flavors of pepperoni and pizza sauce, all grilled to golden perfection in a buttery garlic crust. Quick to prepare and perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner, this recipe offers a delightful twist on two beloved favorites.
Ingredients
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Sandwich Filling
- 8 thick slices sturdy bread, such as sourdough or Italian
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 24 thin slices pepperoni
Instructions
- Prepare garlic butter: In a small mixing bowl, blend softened unsalted butter, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt until the mixture is uniformly combined, creating a flavorful spread for the sandwich exterior.
- Assemble sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce or marinara sauce evenly over 4 bread slices. Then top each with 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella (divided among sandwiches) and 6 slices of pepperoni. Cover each with a remaining bread slice to complete the sandwich.
- Coat with garlic butter: Generously spread the prepared garlic butter mixture on the outer sides of each sandwich, ensuring both sides are well coated to achieve a crispy, flavorful crust when grilled.
- Grill sandwiches: Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently to flatten slightly. Continue until the bread is golden brown and crisp, and the cheese inside has melted completely.
- Serve: Slice the sandwiches in half and serve immediately, optionally accompanied by extra warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian loaf to prevent sogginess and maintain structure during grilling.
- Press sandwiches gently while grilling to ensure even melting and a crispy crust without squashing the fillings.
- For extra flavor, substitute pepperoni with other deli meats or add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
- If preferred, the sandwich can be cooked in a panini press for quicker, more even grilling.
- Leftover sandwiches can be reheated in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness.
