Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

The Ultimate Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe: Gooey Comfort Magic

Mouthwatering pizza grilled cheese combines two comfort food classics in an unexpected twist that’ll make you smile.

Crispy bread hugs melted cheese and zesty marinara sauce for an irresistible lunch option.

Simple ingredients create something magical on your plate.

Every bite promises a nostalgic journey through familiar flavors with a playful upgrade.

Melted mozzarella and pepperoni peek out from golden-brown edges, tempting you closer.

Quick preparation means you can satisfy those cravings in minutes.

Dive into this delectable mashup that proves culinary creativity knows no bounds.

Why Pizza Grilled Cheese Is a Genius Combo

  • Quick Comfort Food Fix: Satisfy pizza and grilled cheese cravings in one deliciously cheesy sandwich that combines classic flavors everyone loves.
  • Minimal Kitchen Skills Required: Perfect for beginners or busy home cooks who want a hassle-free meal with simple ingredients and straightforward cooking technique.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Adaptable recipe that works great for lunch, dinner, game day snacks, kid's meals, or casual gatherings with friends who enjoy hearty, melty goodness.
  • Easy Customization Option: Swap pepperoni for other toppings like ham, bacon, or vegetables to match personal taste preferences and create endless flavor combinations.

Ingredients for Pizza Grilled Cheese

Bread and Cheese:
  • White Bread: Classic sandwich bread perfect for grilling.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Soft, melty cheese with mild flavor.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and salty cheese for extra flavor.
Meat:
  • Pepperoni: Spicy Italian sausage that adds classic pizza taste.
Seasoning and Spread:
  • Butter, Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Blend of herbs and spices that creates a delicious savory coating.
  • Pizza Sauce: Tangy tomato sauce for dipping.

How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Step 1: Whip Up Flavor-Packed Butter Blend

Mix softened butter with parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth and well combined.

The mixture should be creamy and evenly blended.

Step 2: Prepare Bread Base

Spread the seasoned butter mixture generously over one side of each bread slice.

Arrange the bread slices butter-side up on a sheet tray, ready for cooking.

Step 3: Build the Ultimate Cheesy Creation

Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.

Place a bread slice butter-side down in the skillet.

Layer your sandwich with:
  • Mozzarella cheese slice
  • Pepperoni slices
  • Another mozzarella cheese slice
  • More pepperoni slices
  • Final mozzarella cheese slice

Step 4: Top and Cover

Place the second bread slice on top, butter-side facing up.

Cover the skillet with a lid to help melt the cheese perfectly.

Step 5: Achieve Golden Perfection

Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown.

Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula.

Cover again and cook the other side until golden and cheese is melted throughout.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Transfer the hot, crispy sandwich to a plate.

Serve immediately with warm pizza sauce for dipping.

Enjoy the ultimate comfort food mashup that combines the best of pizza and grilled cheese.

Tips for Gooey Pizza Grilled Cheese

  • Mix parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning thoroughly for a more even flavor distribution across the bread.
  • Cook on medium-low heat to prevent burning while ensuring the cheese melts completely and bread turns golden brown.
  • Place mozzarella on both sides of pepperoni to create a melty barrier that prevents meat from making bread soggy.
  • Select thick, sturdy bread that can withstand buttering and grilling without falling apart during cooking.
  • Cover skillet with lid to trap steam, helping cheese melt evenly and creating a beautifully gooey interior.

Storing and Reheating Pizza Grilled Cheese

  • Store leftover pizza grilled cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap each sandwich individually in aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
  • Warm sandwiches in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes per side. This method helps restore the crispy exterior and melty cheese center.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F, place sandwiches on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent excessive browning.
  • Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy and cheese rubbery. If needed, microwave for 30 seconds, then finish in a skillet for crispness.

Tasty Pairings for Pizza Grilled Cheese

  • Pair Zesty Marinara Dip: Warm, tangy pizza sauce perfectly complements the rich, cheesy grilled sandwich, enhancing the pepperoni's spicy notes.
  • Complement Crisp Italian Salad: Fresh arugula with cherry tomatoes, balsamic drizzle, and shaved parmesan creates a light, refreshing contrast to the heavy sandwich.
  • Choose Bold Red Wine: Chianti or Sangiovese with medium tannins cuts through the cheese's richness and matches the pepperoni's robust flavor profile.
  • Select Craft Beer Buddy: Hoppy IPA or amber ale with malty undertones balances the sandwich's intense cheese and provides a crisp, refreshing finish.

Fun Pizza Grilled Cheese Variations

  • Vegetarian Pizza Grilled Cheese: Replace pepperoni with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a meat-free version packed with vegetables and flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread and ensure all cheese and seasoning ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Low-Carb Keto Version: Swap traditional bread with large cheese crisp shells or low-carb cauliflower bread to create a protein-rich alternative that maintains the pizza grilled cheese essence.
  • Mediterranean Inspired Variation: Substitute pepperoni with sliced black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese to create a Mediterranean-style sandwich with tangy and robust flavors.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While mozzarella is classic, you can swap in provolone, cheddar, or Swiss for unique flavor variations.

  • How do I prevent my bread from burning?

Cook on medium-low heat and watch carefully. The butter mixture helps create a golden crust without scorching the bread.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the pizza and grilled cheese combination. The simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a great meal for children.

  • Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Replace pepperoni with sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or other veggie toppings to create a meat-free version that’s just as delicious.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Melty mozzarella and crispy pepperoni dance between golden-brown bread in this pizza grilled cheese fusion. Simple ingredients blend classic comfort with Italian-inspired flavors, creating a quick lunch that satisfies serious sandwich cravings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (soft)
  • 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Craft a flavorful butter blend by combining softened butter, parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth and well-incorporated.
  2. Generously coat one side of each bread slice with the seasoned butter mixture, arranging them butter-side up on a sheet tray.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and place one bread slice butter-side down.
  4. Layer the sandwich with alternating slices of mozzarella and pepperoni, creating three delectable cheese and pepperoni layers.
  5. Top the sandwich with the second buttered bread slice, butter-side facing upward.
  6. Cover the skillet with a lid to encourage even cheese melting, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the bottom achieves a rich golden-brown color.
  7. Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula, replacing the lid to ensure the second side crisps to a similar golden hue and the cheese melts completely.
  8. Repeat the process for remaining sandwiches, maintaining consistent heat and cooking technique.
  9. Plate the grilled cheese immediately, accompanied by warm pizza sauce for a delightful dipping experience.

Notes

  • Adjust pepperoni levels based on personal preference, adding more or less to suit individual taste.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like provolone or cheddar for unique flavor combinations.
  • Ensure butter mixture is evenly spread to achieve consistent golden-brown crispiness on bread.
  • Toast sandwiches on medium-low heat to prevent burning while allowing cheese to melt thoroughly.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star