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
Scale
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.
