Description
This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delightful fusion of a traditional grilled cheese sandwich and pepperoni pizza. It’s loaded with melted mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a hint of garlic, all toasted between slices of buttery bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients
- 8 slices of Italian or white bread
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce, plus extra for dipping
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese
- 24 slices pepperoni
- Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a bowl, combine the softened butter, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well mixed.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the unbuttered side of each slice.
Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the marinara sauce on four of the bread slices.
Add 6 pepperoni slices over the cheese on each sandwich.
Top with another slice of mozzarella cheese.
Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.
Cook the Sandwiches:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
Place the assembled sandwiches onto the skillet.
Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve:
Remove from the skillet and let rest for a minute before slicing.
Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with additional toppings like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
- For a spicier kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes inside the sandwich.
- Using a thick-cut bread like Texas toast can add extra crunch and structure to the sandwich.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1350mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg