Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches take two of the most beloved comfort foods—pizza and grilled cheese—and combine them into one deliciously satisfying meal. With the gooey melted cheese, savory marinara sauce, and crispy golden bread, each bite offers a rich and satisfying flavor. Whether you’re craving pizza but don’t want to go through the hassle of making a whole pie, or just want to add something fun and different to your grilled cheese, this recipe is a perfect solution. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.

Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Ingredients

4 slices of bread (any kind you prefer, but sourdough or Italian bread works best)
4 tablespoons butter, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
1/4 cup pepperoni slices (optional, or add other pizza toppings like olives, mushrooms, etc.)
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of two slices, spread a thin layer of pizza sauce.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the sauce.
Add your choice of pizza toppings (such as pepperoni, olives, or mushrooms) on top of the cheese. Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
Place the remaining slices of bread on top of the sandwiches, buttered side facing out.
Grill the sandwiches on the skillet or griddle for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Remove from the skillet and allow to cool for a minute before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 sandwiches, perfect for 2 people.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the pepperoni and add extra veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for a veggie pizza twist.
Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Cheese Lovers: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, or provolone for more depth of flavor.
Garlic Butter: Swap regular butter with garlic butter for an added burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or on a griddle over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought pizza sauce works perfectly fine. If you want to add more flavor, you can season it with extra herbs or spices.

2. What kind of bread is best for grilled cheese sandwiches?

While any bread will work, thick, hearty breads like sourdough or Italian bread tend to give the best crispy texture and flavor.

3. Can I make these sandwiches in advance?

While they are best fresh, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

4. Can I add other pizza toppings to the sandwich?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables, different meats, or even pineapple if you’re a fan of Hawaiian pizza.

5. Can I make these sandwiches with gluten-free bread?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread as a substitute to make the sandwiches gluten-free.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Mozzarella is the classic choice for pizza, but you can also use cheddar, provolone, or even a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.

7. Can I use a panini press to make these sandwiches?

Yes, a panini press works great for grilling these sandwiches and gives them a nice crispy crust.

8. How do I get the perfect golden brown crust on my sandwich?

Be sure to cook your sandwiches over medium heat and press them lightly with a spatula to ensure the bread crisps evenly without burning.

9. Can I add sauce on the side for dipping?

Yes, marinara sauce or extra pizza sauce is perfect for dipping these sandwiches.

10. How can I make the sandwiches extra cheesy?

Layer the cheese more generously inside the sandwich, and add a little cheese on top before grilling for a cheesy crust.

Conclusion

Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the crispy, buttery goodness of a grilled cheese with the flavors of a pizza. Quick, customizable, and packed with flavor, this recipe will surely become a family favorite. Whether you’re making them for lunch, dinner, or a snack, these sandwiches offer the perfect balance of gooey cheese, savory sauce, and crispy bread. Enjoy this fun and tasty twist on two beloved classics!