Introduction

This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on two beloved classics: pizza and grilled cheese. Crispy, buttery bread filled with gooey mozzarella, tangy marinara, and savory pepperoni makes for a comforting and quick meal perfect for any time of day.

The image shows a close-up of a rectangular sandwich featuring three main layers. The bottom layer is thick, toasted bread in golden-brown color with a slightly crispy texture. The middle layer consists of melted white cheese stretched out with gooey texture and slices of dark orange-red pepperoni peeking out. The top layer is another piece of toasted bread covered generously with melted, bubbly cheese that has browned and crisped in spots, sprinkled lightly with green herbs. The sandwich rests on a white marbled textured surface. 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: Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. Sprinkle the buttered side with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to infuse extra pizza flavor as it toasts.
Step 2: Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a flat surface. Spread marinara sauce on the inside of each slice. Layer shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, turkey pepperoni, and any extra toppings of your choice. 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 slightly with a spatula. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Step 4: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Slice them in half and garnish with fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

Use ciabatta or a crusty Italian bread for a sturdier sandwich that holds up well to fillings.
Swap turkey pepperoni for sliced mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or any favorite pizza topping for a vegetarian version.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a little extra heat.
For a richer flavor, mix a little crushed garlic into the softened butter before spreading it on the bread.

Storage

Store leftover Pizza Grilled Cheese wrapped in foil or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to keep the bread crisp and the cheese melty. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows a square-shaped pizza sandwich with three thick layers. The bottom layer is toasted golden bread with a slightly crispy texture. Above this are melted, stretchy white cheese, with some parts dripping down, and bright red pepperoni slices peeking out. The top layer is another piece of crispy toasted bread covered with bubbly, browned cheese and small green herb sprinkles, giving it a golden and textured surface. The sandwich sits on parchment paper over a white marbled countertop, with soft focus plates and a glass 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 different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use provolone, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Just ensure they melt well for that gooey texture.

Is it possible to make this sandwich vegan?

Yes, use vegan butter, plant-based cheese alternatives, and skip the pepperoni or substitute with vegan deli slices or veggies to make a delicious vegan version.

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 95 reviews

This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delicious fusion of classic grilled cheese and pizza flavors, featuring melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, turkey pepperoni, and a hint of Italian seasoning. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal, it combines buttery toasted bread with rich marinara sauce and fresh basil for an irresistible treat.

Author: Toney
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Category: Sandwich
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bread and Seasoning

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

For the Filling

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 the buttered side with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to add extra pizza flavor as it toasts.
Assemble the Sandwich: Place two slices of bread on a flat surface with the buttered side down. Spread marinara sauce on the inside of each slice. Layer the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, turkey pepperoni, and any additional toppings you prefer. Complete the sandwich by placing the remaining two slices of bread on top, buttered side up.
Toast the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook each side for 3-4 minutes, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure even browning and melting. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted thoroughly.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and allow them to cool for a minute to set. Slice each sandwich in half and garnish with fresh chopped basil for an added burst of freshness. Serve alongside extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Use your favorite type of bread, but sturdier breads like sourdough hold up best to the juicy filling.
For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey pepperoni or replace with sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies.
Adjust the heat level by choosing spicy pepperoni or adding crushed red pepper flakes inside the sandwich.
If you prefer, cook the sandwich in a panini press for a crispier texture.
Make sure to cook on medium-low heat to melt the cheese without burning the bread.

Keywords: Pizza Grilled Cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, turkey pepperoni sandwich, quick lunch, easy dinner, Italian flavors