Why You’ll Love Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe
If you love pizza and grilled cheese, this recipe gives you the best of both worlds. It’s incredibly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and comes together in under 20 minutes. The outside turns perfectly golden and crisp, while the inside stays warm, gooey, and packed with flavor.
It’s also highly customizable. You can switch up the toppings, use different cheeses, or even make it vegetarian. Whether you’re cooking for kids, teens, or adults, this sandwich is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
unsalted butter, softened
grated Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
garlic powder
salt
8 slices sturdy bread such as sourdough or Italian bread
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
24 slices thin pepperoni
Directions
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Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
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In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
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Spread the seasoned butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
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Place four slices of bread butter-side down in the skillet.
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Spread pizza sauce over each slice in the pan.
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Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce, then layer the pepperoni slices on top.
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Place the remaining slices of bread on top, butter-side up.
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Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
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Remove from the skillet, let cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8 to 10 minutes
Total time: Approximately 15 minutes
Variations
Vegetarian version: Skip the pepperoni and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, black olives, or spinach.
Meat lovers: Add cooked sausage or crispy bacon along with the pepperoni.
Different cheeses: Try provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses for deeper flavor.
Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for heat.
Pesto style: Replace pizza sauce with pesto for a fresh, herby flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium-low heat until the bread crisps back up and the cheese melts again. You can also reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soft instead of crispy.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can assemble the sandwiches a few hours in advance and cook them when ready.
What’s the best bread to use?
Thick-cut sourdough or Italian bread works best because it holds up to the sauce and melted cheese without becoming soggy.
Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
Yes, store-bought pizza sauce or marinara works perfectly in this recipe.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Use sturdy bread and cook over medium-low heat so the cheese melts evenly without overloading the sandwich with sauce.
Can I use fresh mozzarella?
Yes, but slice it thinly and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. It combines two favorites—pizza and grilled cheese—making it a hit with kids and teens.
Can I freeze pizza grilled cheese?
Freezing is not recommended after cooking, as the texture may change. It’s best made fresh.
What sides go well with this sandwich?
A simple green salad, tomato soup, or extra pizza sauce for dipping pairs nicely.
Can I cook this in a panini press?
Yes, a panini press works great and helps achieve an evenly crisp exterior.
How do I make it extra crispy?
Make sure the butter is evenly spread and cook slowly over medium-low heat to achieve a perfectly golden crust.
Conclusion
Pizza Grilled Cheese is a simple yet irresistible meal that brings together the crispy comfort of grilled cheese and the bold flavors of pizza. With minimal prep and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for quick lunches, easy dinners, or satisfying snacks, this sandwich proves that sometimes the best meals come from combining two classics into one delicious bite.
