Craving pizza but love the simplicity of a grilled cheese? The Pizza Grilled Cheese combines the best of both worlds, delivering gooey cheese, tangy pizza sauce, and your favorite toppings in every crispy bite. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a satisfying snack.
Why You Will Love Pizza Grilled Cheese
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a great option for busy days.
- Customizable: Use your favorite pizza toppings to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Combines two iconic favorites into one irresistible dish.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients.
Ingredients Notes for Pizza Grilled Cheese
With just a few ingredients, this recipe is simple yet packed with flavor.
- 2 slices of bread: Choose white, whole wheat, or sourdough for the base. Sourdough adds a tangy touch.
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened): Ensures a golden, crispy crust.
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for a personal touch.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates the melty, stretchy goodness. A pizza blend works well, too.
- 1/4 cup pepperoni slices: Optional. Swap with mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, or your favorite toppings.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano and garlic powder: Optional but enhances the classic pizza flavor.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat.
- Fresh basil leaves: Adds a fresh and fragrant garnish.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Small bowl (for seasoning the cheese, optional)
How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese
1. Prepare the Bread
- Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Assemble the Sandwich
- On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, spread about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle with dried oregano, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
- Add your choice of pizza toppings, such as pepperoni slices, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out.
3. Grill the Sandwich
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the assembled sandwich in the skillet.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
- Press gently with a spatula for even cooking.
4. Serve
- Once both sides are golden and crispy, remove the sandwich from the skillet.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Cut in half and serve hot with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Pair with a small salad, tomato soup, or enjoy as is. It’s best served fresh and hot.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness.
Variations and Substitutions
- Cheesy Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on the buttered bread before grilling for an extra-crispy, cheesy crust.
- Vegetarian Delight: Load up on veggies like spinach, tomatoes, and artichokes instead of meat.
- Gourmet Touch: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or use fresh mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes for a Caprese-inspired version.
Helpful Notes
- Even Grilling: Keep the heat on medium to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- Customize the Cheese: Mix mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for a unique flavor blend.
- No Butter?: Use olive oil or mayonnaise on the bread for a similar crispy finish.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Bobby Flay: “Layer the cheese both above and below the toppings to help everything stick together while grilling.”
- Martha Stewart: “Butter the skillet instead of the bread for an even golden crust.”
- Giada De Laurentiis: “Fresh basil and a sprinkle of sea salt take this simple dish to the next level.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a panini press?
Yes! A panini press works perfectly and eliminates the need to flip the sandwich manually.
2. What’s the best bread to use?
Sourdough and hearty whole wheat bread hold up well and provide a flavorful base.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter and plant-based cheese alternatives.
4. How can I make it healthier?
Opt for whole-grain bread, low-fat cheese, and load up on vegetables as toppings.
5. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
You can assemble the sandwich and store it in the fridge for a few hours before grilling. Avoid adding wet ingredients like fresh tomatoes to prevent sogginess.
Pizza Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup—crispy, gooey, and packed with pizza-inspired goodness. Customize it to your taste and enjoy this quick and satisfying meal!
