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This pizza grilled cheese sandwich combines two comfort food classics into one mouthwatering meal. The melty mozzarella, pepperoni, and pizza sauce between crispy buttered bread delivers all the flavors of pizza in handheld form.
I created this recipe when my nephew refused to eat anything but pizza for a week straight. The sandwich was such a hit that it became our Friday night tradition while watching movies together.
Ingredients
- Bread choose a sturdy variety like sourdough or Italian that can hold up to the fillings
- Mozzarella cheese use fresh sliced mozzarella for that authentic pizza pull
- Pizza sauce the heart of pizza flavor look for one with herbs and garlic
- Turkey pepperoni a leaner option than regular pepperoni with all the flavor
- Shredded cheddar cheese adds a sharp contrast to the mild mozzarella
- Butter softened for easy spreading creates that perfect golden crust
- Italian seasoning brings authentic pizza flavor to every bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the bread
- Spread softened butter evenly across one side of each bread slice. Make sure to cover from edge to edge for even browning. The butter should be soft enough to spread without tearing the bread.
- Start the cooking process
- Place two slices of bread butter side down in a cold skillet then turn heat to medium. Starting with a cold skillet allows the bread to warm gradually for even browning instead of immediate scorching.
- Build the base layer
- Spread 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on each bread slice in the skillet. Keep the sauce away from the edges to prevent dripping when the cheese melts.
- Add the fillings
- Layer mozzarella slices first to create a barrier between the sauce and remaining ingredients. Arrange pepperoni in a single layer then sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top. The cheddar helps bind everything together.
- Season and top
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the fillings then place remaining bread slices on top with buttered side facing up. Press down gently with a spatula to help ingredients meld together.
- Cook to perfection
- Cook until the bottom is golden brown approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Carefully flip each sandwich using a wide spatula supporting the ingredients. Cook the second side until equally golden and cheese is completely melted about 3 more minutes.
- Serve immediately
- Transfer to cutting board and let rest for 1 minute before slicing diagonally. Serve with extra warmed pizza sauce in small dipping bowls.
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The mozzarella cheese is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered that slicing it a bit thicker than normal creates those Instagram worthy cheese pulls when you take your first bite. My family now judges the success of this sandwich solely on how far the cheese stretches.
Make Ahead Options
These sandwiches can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare everything except the final cooking step wrap each uncooked sandwich in parchment paper then refrigerate. When ready to eat simply cook in a skillet as directed adding about 1 minute to the cooking time.
Variations to Try
Create a vegetarian version by swapping pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms bell peppers and spinach. The vegetables add wonderful texture and nutrition without sacrificing flavor. My vegetarian sister requests this version whenever she visits.
Serving Suggestions
Complete your meal by pairing with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier option serve alongside tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combination especially during cold weather months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different cheeses for this dish?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.
- → What bread works best for this dish?
Sturdy bread like sourdough or rustic white bread works best as it holds up during toasting without becoming soggy.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the pepperoni and add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
- → How can I prevent the bread from burning?
Cook the sandwich on medium heat and monitor it closely, flipping as soon as the bottom is golden brown.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it with a side salad, soup, or extra pizza sauce for dipping to round out the meal.