A fun and delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese, combining the flavors of pizza and comfort food!
This Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese is a perfect fusion of two classic favorites—grilled cheese and pizza! The gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and rich marinara sauce all melt together between crispy, buttery slices of bread for a mouthwatering sandwich that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a fun dinner, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bread (Italian or sourdough works great)
- 4 tbsp marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or more, to taste)
- 16 slices of pepperoni
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra cheesy crust)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Butter the Bread: Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will give the grilled cheese its signature golden, crispy crust.
- Add Parmesan (Optional): For extra flavor, sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top of the buttered side. This step adds a cheesy, slightly crunchy element to the crust.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread Sauce: Flip the bread slices so the unbuttered side is facing up. Spread about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce on each unbuttered side of the bread.
- Layer the Cheese and Pepperoni:
- On two of the slices, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. You can use as much cheese as you like for extra gooeyness.
- Add 8 slices of pepperoni on top of the cheese for that classic pizza flavor.
- For an added kick, sprinkle a little Italian seasoning over the pepperoni.
- If you prefer even more cheese, add another layer of mozzarella on top of the pepperoni.
Step 3: Cook the Grilled Cheese
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place the remaining two slices of bread on top, buttered side up.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and allow it to heat up.
- Grill the Sandwich: Carefully place the prepared sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside has melted into a gooey, delicious mess.
Tip: If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, lower the heat slightly to give the cheese more time to melt without burning the bread.
Step 4: Serve
Once your Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese is perfectly golden and crispy, remove it from the skillet. Slice the sandwich in half, revealing the melty cheese and pepperoni inside. For an extra touch, serve it with a side of warm marinara saucefor dipping.
Quick Facts:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 400 per sandwich
- Servings: 2
Variations and Customizations:
- Other Toppings: Try adding sliced bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, or onions to give your sandwich even more of a pizza-like feel.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheesesfor a different flavor profile.
- Sauce Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of marinara, you can substitute pesto, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for a unique twist.
Tips for Success:
- Use Thick Bread: For a hearty and satisfying sandwich, use thick slices of Italian bread, sourdough, or even baguette.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to load the sandwich with tons of toppings, be mindful of how much you put in. Too many fillings can make the sandwich difficult to grill evenly.
- Adjust Heat: Make sure the skillet is at a medium heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts. You can always lower the heat if needed to give the cheese a little more time to melt.
This Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese brings the best of both worlds—grilled cheese comfort and pizza flavor—into one irresistible sandwich. It’s simple to prepare, totally customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a cheesy, savory meal.
