Get ready for a fun twist on classic comfort food! This Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich combines gooey cheese and tasty pepperoni, all tucked inside crispy, buttery bread.
Who knew you could turn a regular grilled cheese into a mini pizza? I love to dip mine in marinara sauce for extra flavor—it’s like having two delicious meals in one! 🍕🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Thick White Bread: Texas toast or sourdough works best for that hearty crunch. If you’re looking for a whole grain option or gluten-free bread, those will work too. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold all the fillings.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its melty goodness! Provolone is also delicious and adds creaminess. If you want a sharper taste, you could swap in cheddar or pepper jack for a kick.
Pepperoni: Classic pepperoni is a favorite, but if you want a healthier or meatless option, turkey pepperoni or veggie pepperoni can work well. You can also add other toppings like olives or bell peppers!
Pizza Sauce: I use jarred pizza sauce for convenience, but homemade marinara works great too! If you’re short on sauce, a touch of olive oil and some Italian seasoning can add flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Grilled Cheese Gets That Perfectly Crispy Exterior?
Getting that golden, crispy crust is all about heat control and butter amount. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your skillet over medium-low heat. If it’s too hot, the bread will burn before the cheese melts.
- Use enough butter! Spread it generously on the outside of each slice. This helps achieve that nice crunch.
- Press gently while cooking to enhance contact with the skillet, leading to even browning.
- Cook slowly. Patience is key; take your time to allow the cheese to melt while the bread toasts properly.
Take your time and enjoy the cooking process—great results come from careful attention!
How to Make a Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices of thick white bread (such as Texas toast or sourdough)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for spreading on bread)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 20-24 slices pepperoni
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of around 20-25 minutes. You’ll end up with a delicious, crispy sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or a late-night snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Start by preheating a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. This ensures your sandwiches will cook evenly and avoid burning.
2. Butter the Bread:
Take your softened butter and generously spread it on one side of each slice of bread. This buttery side will be the outside of the sandwich, giving it a golden and crispy crust.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
On the non-buttered side of 4 slices, spread a thin layer of pizza sauce. Then, evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses over the sauce. Next, layer the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese, sprinkling a little dried oregano and garlic powder over everything if you like that extra kick!
4. Complete the Sandwich:
Cover the cheesy layers with the remaining 4 slices of bread, making sure the buttered side is facing outwards.
5. Cook the Sandwich:
Carefully place your assembled sandwiches in the preheated skillet. Cook each side for about 3-5 minutes, using a spatula to press gently down. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust and melted cheese inside!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once they’re cooked to perfection, transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board and let them cool for a minute. Then, slice each sandwich in half. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve hot!
7. Enjoy:
For an extra treat, serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your melty, crispy, and savory Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich!
This tasty creation combines the best of both worlds—pizza and grilled cheese—into one amazing sandwich!
Can I Use A Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While thick white bread like Texas toast or sourdough works wonderfully, you can use any bread you prefer. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold the filling, such as ciabatta or whole-grain bread.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to crisp it up again, or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up, though it may lose its crunch.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your sandwich with additional toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. Just keep in mind that extra moisture from additional ingredients can affect the texture, so balance is key!
Is There a Vegetarian Option?
Yes! You can easily make it vegetarian by replacing pepperoni with veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also use a meatless pepperoni alternative if you want that classic taste without the meat.