Introduction

Experience the comforting combination of two classics with this Pizza Grilled Cheese sandwich. Melty mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and rich marinara sauce come together between crispy, buttery bread for a quick and satisfying meal.

The image shows a thick, rectangular sandwich with two golden-brown toasted bread layers on top and bottom. The top bread is covered with melted cheese that is bubbling and browned in spots, sprinkled with dried herbs. Below the top bread, there is a visible rich layer of melted mozzarella cheese stretching and oozing out. Under the cheese, you can see slices of pepperoni with a glossy, slightly crispy look, and a layer of vibrant red tomato sauce peeking through. The sandwich is resting on parchment paper placed on a white marbled surface, with a blurred background of stacked white plates and a glass of water. The textures show a crispy, toasted crust on the bread and gooey, melted cheese inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
2 tbsp butter (softened)
½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 slices of turkey pepperoni (or your preferred topping)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the bread by spreading a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice. Sprinkle the buttered sides evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for added pizza flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the sandwich by placing two slices of bread buttered side down on a flat surface. Spread marinara sauce on the inside of each slice, then layer shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, turkey pepperoni, and any extra toppings you like. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
Step 3: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted completely.
Step 4: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Slice in half and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm, optionally with extra marinara sauce on the side.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian option, substitute turkey pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
Try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes inside for a spicy kick.
Use thick-cut bread to hold more filling without becoming soggy.
To melt the cheese evenly, cover the skillet with a lid while cooking.

Storage

Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to preserve crispiness, or warm briefly in a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy bread.

How to Serve

A close-up of a square sandwich pizza with two thick layers of toasted golden bread, the top layer showing a bubbly, browned melted cheese with scattered herbs. Below the bread, there is a thick layer of bright red tomato sauce, melted cheese stretching out gooey and creamy, and slices of dark red pepperoni peeking from inside. The sandwich rests on parchment paper on a wooden surface, with blurred white plates and a glass of water in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses depending on your preference. Just make sure it melts well for the best texture.

What can I serve with Pizza Grilled Cheese?

This sandwich pairs nicely with a simple green salad, a cup of tomato soup, or extra marinara sauce for dipping to complete your meal.

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 138 reviews

A delicious and comforting Pizza Grilled Cheese sandwich combining the classic flavors of pizza with the melty goodness of grilled cheese. This easy-to-make recipe features buttery toasted bread layered with marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, turkey pepperoni, and aromatic Italian seasonings, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Category: Lunch
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Butter

4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
2 tbsp butter (softened)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning

Fillings

½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 slices of turkey pepperoni (or your preferred topping)
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Evenly sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the buttered side to infuse it with delicious pizza-inspired flavors as it toasts.
Assemble the Sandwich: Lay two slices of bread buttered side down on a flat surface. Spread marinara sauce generously on the non-buttered sides of each slice. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese followed by grated Parmesan cheese, arrange the turkey pepperoni slices evenly, and add any extra toppings if desired. Top the fillings with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up, to complete the sandwiches.
Toast the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the assembled sandwiches onto the pan and cook each side for 3-4 minutes, pressing down gently with a spatula to compact the sandwich and ensure even melting. Carefully flip and continue cooking until the bread achieves a golden-brown color and the cheese inside is fully melted and gooey.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute to slightly cool and set. Slice each sandwich in half diagonally and sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for an aromatic and flavorful touch. Serve warm alongside your favorite side dish or a fresh salad.

Notes

You can customize your pizza grilled cheese with other toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
Use day-old bread for better toasting results and easier handling.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes inside the sandwich or sprinkle on top before cooking.
For a vegetarian version, omit turkey pepperoni or substitute with plant-based alternatives.
Cook the sandwich on medium-low heat to prevent burning the bread before the cheese melts.

Keywords: pizza grilled cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, pizza sandwich, easy lunch recipe, comfort food, mozzarella, pepperoni sandwich