Pizza Grilled Cheese

Pizza grilled cheese combines two of my all-time favorite comfort foods: pizza and grilled cheese! This delightful dish features toasty grilled bread filled with an ooey gooey cheesy middle, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or a cozy snack. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to impress everyone with its rich flavors and comforting textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in just 14 minutes.
• Flavor Packed: With layers of cheese, pepperoni, and pizza sauce, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: You can customize your pizza grilled cheese by adding your favorite toppings or using different cheeses.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a family dinner, this dish fits right in!
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness and fun presentation of this meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect pizza grilled cheese, you’ll need a few essential tools that help streamline the process and enhance the final result.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Butter knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures your sandwich cooks evenly without sticking, making flipping easier.
• Butter knife: Ideal for spreading butter evenly on bread for that golden crust.

Ingredients

Pizza grilled cheese combines two of my all-time favorite comfort foods: pizza and grilled cheese! Toasty grilled bread and an ooey gooey cheesy middle.

Bread

• 4 slices thick sliced bread (such as Artesano bread)

Cheese

• 3 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

Toppings

• 2 tablespoons pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)
• 1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
• 1 pinch dried oregano
• 24 slices pepperoni (thin slices, about 1″ diameter)
• 6 slices pepperoni (thinly sliced)

Other Ingredients

• Butter
• 2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Pan

1. Preheat a non-stick pan over medium heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

1. Butter the bread.
2. Place 2 slices butter side down in the pan.
3. Top each slice with 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

1. Layer on 3 ounces of mozzarella cheese.
2. Add 6 slices of pepperoni.
3. Sprinkle on the Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, remaining pepperoni, and mozzarella.
4. Top with the remaining bread slices, butter side out.

Step 4: Cook the Sandwiches

1. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

1. Remove the sandwich from the pan.
2. Place 3 slices of pepperoni directly in the pan.
3. Top with 1 tablespoon of mozzarella cheese.
4. Place the sandwich on top of the cheese and cook until crisp and crusted (about 1 minute).
5. Serve hot with extra pizza sauce for dipping.

How to Serve Pizza Grilled Cheese

Pizza grilled cheese is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or at a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Pizza Sauce: A classic choice that complements the flavors of the sandwich.
• Marinara: For a tangy twist, serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch adds a zesty kick to each bite.

Add Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh Basil: Garnish your grilled cheese with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
• Sliced Tomatoes: Add slices of ripe tomatoes for freshness and extra flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado can enhance the richness of your sandwich.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad pairs well and adds a crunchy contrast.
• Greek Salad: The tangy feta and olives in a Greek salad complement the savory sandwich.

Create a Platter

• Charcuterie Board: Include various cheeses, meats, and olives for an indulgent spread.
• Veggie Platter: Offer fresh veggies with hummus as a refreshing side option.

How to Perfect Pizza Grilled Cheese

Making the perfect pizza grilled cheese involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich turns out delicious every time.

• Use Thick Bread: Selecting thick sliced bread helps hold all the fillings without falling apart.
• Butter Generously: A good amount of butter on the outside creates a golden, crispy crust.
• Layer Properly: Start with cheese at the bottom, then add toppings to prevent sogginess.
• Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on medium heat allows the cheese to melt properly without burning the bread.
• Press Down Gently: Lightly pressing down on the sandwich ensures even cooking and melting of cheese.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for unique flavor combinations.

Best Side Dishes for Pizza Grilled Cheese

When enjoying pizza grilled cheese, side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping in sauce alongside your sandwich.
2. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit; try seasoning them with garlic powder or Parmesan cheese.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with cheesy goodness.
4. Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw can balance the richness of grilled cheese.
5. Pickles: Tangy pickles add a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the sandwich.
6. Tomato Soup: A classic pairing; dip your pizza grilled cheese into warm tomato soup for extra comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pizza grilled cheese is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can ruin your experience. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using the wrong bread: Opt for thick sliced bread like Artesano. Thin bread won’t hold the filling well and may become soggy.
• Not preheating the pan: Failing to preheat your non-stick pan can lead to uneven cooking. Always allow it to heat up before adding your sandwich.
• Overstuffing the sandwich: While it’s tempting to add lots of ingredients, too much filling can make it difficult to cook properly. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Skipping butter on the outside: Buttering the bread adds flavor and helps achieve that perfect golden crust. Don’t skip this step!
• Not letting it rest after cooking: Giving your pizza grilled cheese a minute to rest allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice and eat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Storage duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Container type: Use a glass or plastic container with a tight seal.

Freezing Pizza Grilled Cheese

• Freezing duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Preparation tip: Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Pizza Grilled Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-45 seconds, but this may not keep the crust crispy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and cook until warmed through, usually around 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding pizza grilled cheese:

Can I customize my Pizza Grilled Cheese?

Yes! You can add ingredients like mushrooms or different cheeses based on your taste preferences.

What kind of cheese works best for Pizza Grilled Cheese?

Mozzarella is ideal because it melts well, but you can mix in provolone or cheddar for added flavor.

How do I make Pizza Grilled Cheese vegetarian?

Simply omit the pepperoni and load up on vegetables like bell peppers or olives instead.

Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza sauce saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Is Pizza Grilled Cheese suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids love cheesy, flavorful foods, making this a great option for family dinners.

Final Thoughts

Pizza grilled cheese is a delightful blend of two comfort food classics that are sure to please everyone. Its versatility means you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious homemade treat that’s perfect any night of the week!