Pizza Grilled Cheese
Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delightful combination of two of the most beloved comfort foods in the world: pizza and grilled cheese. This irresistible fusion creates a sandwich that brings together the gooey, cheesy goodness of a classic grilled cheese with the rich, savory flavors of pizza.
Originating as a creative spin in home kitchens where both kids and adults wanted the best of both worlds, the Pizza Grilled Cheese quickly rose to popularity for its simplicity and delicious results.
This recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a hearty snack, and it’s a hit across all age groups.
By layering familiar pizza toppings like pepperoni, mozzarella, marinara sauce, and Italian herbs between slices of buttery, golden-brown bread, you get all your favorite pizza flavors in an easy-to-make sandwich.
Whether you’re looking to bring a fun twist to your weeknight meals or searching for a crowd-pleasing dish for game day, Pizza Grilled Cheese is sure to satisfy. The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to experiment with different cheeses, sauces, and toppings to suit your preferences.
Indulge in the delicious nostalgia of pizza, reimagined as a sandwich, with this ultimate Pizza Grilled Cheese recipe.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of thick-cut sandwich bread (white, sourdough, or Italian)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 slices pepperoni (or more, as desired)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices provolone cheese (optional, for extra cheese pull)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Olive oil spray (optional, for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Lay out the bread slices on a clean work surface. Spread softened butter evenly over one side of each slice.
- Flip half the bread slices so the unbuttered side faces up. Spread about a tablespoon of pizza sauce on each of these slices.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over the sauce-covered slices. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Layer 2 slices of pepperoni (or more) and an optional slice of provolone on top of the cheeses.
- Place the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out, on top to form a sandwich.
- Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. (Optional: Lightly spray the pan with olive oil for added crispiness.)
- Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook the other side until equally golden and crisp.
- Remove from the skillet and let the sandwiches rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing in half. Serve hot, with extra pizza sauce for dipping if desired.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of Pizza Grilled Cheese made with regular sandwich bread, mozzarella, pepperoni, and butter contains approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. Each sandwich provides around 22-28 grams of protein, largely from the cheese and meats.
Expect around 24-32 grams of fat per serving, with saturated fat making up about 12-15 grams due to the dairy content. Carbohydrates come mainly from the bread, totaling about 35-40 grams per sandwich, along with about 3 grams of dietary fiber if you use whole grain bread.
Sodium levels can be robust, ranging from 850-1200 mg per serving, primarily due to the cheese, sauce, and cured meats. Cholesterol per sandwich is typically around 60-80 mg.
Despite being an indulgent treat, Pizza Grilled Cheese offers calcium, vitamin A, and some B vitamins from the cheese, and lycopene from the tomato sauce.
For a lighter option, you can choose reduced-fat cheeses, turkey pepperoni, and whole grain bread, or add veggies like spinach and mushrooms to boost the nutritional value.
It’s a satisfying meal that offers both comfort and some essential nutrients, though moderation is key, especially for those watching fat or sodium intake.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Pizza Grilled Cheese pairs wonderfully with several types of refreshing beverages. For a classic choice, serve it with a chilled glass of cola or root beer.
For adults, a crisp Italian lager or a light-bodied red wine like Chianti or Pinot Noir beautifully complements the savory flavors and richness of the cheese.
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling lemonade or an iced herbal tea, such as peach or hibiscus, provide a delightful contrast to the melty, cheesy sandwich. For kids, a simple glass of milk or a fruit punch completes the meal perfectly.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To perfect your Pizza Grilled Cheese, consider selecting a sturdy, flavorful bread like sourdough or Italian bread, which holds up well to the gooey fillings. For extra crunch, sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese on the outside of the bread before grilling.
Use freshly-grated mozzarella for maximum meltiness and flavor, and feel free to swap in provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different taste profile. Customize your fillings by adding cooked mushrooms, sliced olives, bell peppers, onions, or even a handful of baby spinach for a veggie-packed version.
If you’re vegetarian, simply omit the pepperoni or substitute with meatless options. For a healthier variation, opt for reduced-fat cheeses, turkey pepperoni, or whole wheat bread. If you like your sandwich extra saucy, serve additional warm pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
When making multiple sandwiches, keep finished ones warm in a 200°F oven while cooking the rest. For air fryer enthusiasts, you can cook your Pizza Grilled Cheese at 370°F for about 7 minutes, flipping halfway. The recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it easy to please even picky eaters.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pizza Grilled Cheese hot and fresh, straight off the skillet, for the best melty texture and crisp exterior. Slicing each sandwich in half diagonally not only enhances the presentation but also reveals the enticing gooey cheese pull, making it especially appealing for children and adults alike.
For a heartier meal, accompany your sandwich with a bowl of tomato basil soup or a fresh, crisp garden salad tossed in a tangy Italian vinaigrette.
If you’re serving a crowd or hosting a casual get-together, cut sandwiches into quarters and offer them alongside a selection of dipping sauces such as warm pizza sauce, garlic aioli, or ranch. Consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or fresh basil on top for a gourmet touch.
Pizza Grilled Cheese also makes for an excellent addition to a lunchbox, as it retains much of its flavor even when enjoyed at room temperature. To keep the sandwich crisp, allow it to cool slightly before packing.
Whether enjoyed as a main meal, snack, or party bite, Pizza Grilled Cheese is sure to be the highlight of any table.
Health Benefits
While Pizza Grilled Cheese is a comfort food and can be rich in calories and saturated fat, it can also offer nutritional benefits when prepared thoughtfully.
Cheese is a valuable source of high-quality protein and calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, while the tomato-based sauce adds lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart and skin health. Whole grain bread boosts dietary fiber, aiding digestion and supporting stable blood sugar levels.
You can increase nutritional value by incorporating extra veggies as fillings, such as spinach, peppers, or mushrooms, which add vitamins and minerals. For those monitoring sodium or cholesterol, choose part-skim cheeses and lean proteins, and use turkey or vegetarian pepperoni alternatives. Homemade sauces allow control over added sugar and sodium.
Moderation and ingredient awareness ensure that Pizza Grilled Cheese can occasionally fit into a balanced diet, offering both comfort and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pizza Grilled Cheese is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can assemble them a few hours in advance and store in the refrigerator, then grill when ready to serve for the crispiest texture.
Absolutely! Sourdough, Italian, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread all work well for Pizza Grilled Cheese. Choose a sturdy bread that will hold the fillings without getting soggy.
Yes! Simply omit the pepperoni or substitute with your favorite vegetarian or plant-based pizza toppings, such as mushrooms, olives, or grilled vegetables.
Yes, you can cook your sandwich in the air fryer at 370°F for about 7 minutes, turning halfway through, for a perfectly crispy result.
Freshly-grated mozzarella is the classic choice due to its excellent melting qualities and mild flavor. Blending with provolone or cheddar can add extra richness and taste.
Pizza Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup, offering the flavors of pizza in a fun, melty sandwich form that is easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. With its crispy golden exterior and irresistible cheese pull, it brings joy to pizza lovers and grilled cheese aficionados alike. Whether you stick with the classic or experiment with your own favorite toppings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend snacks, or casual gatherings, Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delicious reminder that sometimes, the best meals are the simplest—and the most fun to eat.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of sourdough bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 16 slices pepperoni
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
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1Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
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2Place 4 slices, buttered side down, on a work surface. Spread pizza sauce on top of each slice.
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3Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then add pepperoni, black olives, and bell peppers. Sprinkle with dried oregano.
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4Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
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5Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook sandwiches 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
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6Remove from skillet, slice, and serve warm.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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