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This epic sandwich combines two of my favorite comfort foods - grilled cheese and pizza - into one magnificent creation that delivers all those classic pizza flavors in handheld form. The crispy, buttery bread gives way to gooey melted cheese and savory pepperoni that will transport you straight to your favorite pizzeria with every bite.
I started making these when my nephew visited and refused to eat anything but pizza. This compromise saved dinner and has since become our special tradition whenever he stays over.
Ingredients
- Sandwich bread: Acts as your pizza crust substitute with a perfect ratio of crunch to chew
- Mozzarella cheese: Creates that essential stretchy cheese pull we all crave from pizza
- Mini pepperoni slices: Provide classic pizza flavor in the perfect size for sandwiches
- Pizza sauce: Delivers authentic tomato flavor both inside and as a dipping sauce
- Parmesan cheese: Adds that umami kick that elevates the entire sandwich
- Dried oregano: Brings in the distinctive Italian herb profile that makes pizza taste like pizza
- Butter: Creates that golden brown exterior and rich flavor that makes grilled cheese irresistible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Workspace:
- Gather all ingredients and have them ready before heating your pan. This sandwich comes together quickly once you start cooking, so having everything measured and within reach will ensure success.
- Prepare The Bread:
- Spread butter evenly across one side of each bread slice, making sure to reach all the way to the edges. The butter should be soft enough to spread without tearing the bread but not so melted that it soaks through.
- Build Your Pizza Base:
- With bread slices butter side down, spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on two of the slices. Be careful not to use too much sauce or your sandwich will become soggy. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent spillage.
- Add Your Toppings:
- Sprinkle mozzarella directly onto the sauce, then arrange pepperoni evenly across the cheese. Follow with a light dusting of oregano and parmesan. The layering order matters for proper melting and flavor distribution.
- Complete The Sandwich:
- Place the remaining bread slices on top with the buttered sides facing outward. Press down gently to seal the sandwich together before cooking.
- Cook To Perfection:
- Place sandwiches in a preheated skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until deeply golden, then flip carefully using a spatula. Press down occasionally with the spatula to ensure even browning and help the cheese melt completely.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the sandwiches to rest for one minute after cooking. This crucial step lets the molten cheese set slightly so it stretches rather than runs when you cut the sandwich.
- Slice And Serve:
- Cut diagonally for maximum cheese pull effect and serve immediately with extra warmed pizza sauce for dipping.
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The mini pepperoni is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered this ingredient while looking for ways to make pizza night more interesting, and now I keep a package in the refrigerator at all times for impromptu grilled cheese emergencies.
Make It Your Own
This sandwich welcomes creativity just like a regular pizza. Try adding thinly sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or black olives between the cheese layers. For meat lovers, substitute the pepperoni with cooked sausage crumbles or Canadian bacon. Veggie lovers can skip the meat entirely and add extra vegetables. Just remember to keep fillings thin and pre-cook any vegetables that release moisture to prevent a soggy sandwich.
Perfect Pairings
Serve your Pizza Grilled Cheese alongside a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette for a complete meal. For a more substantial dinner, pair with tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combination. The acidic soup cuts through the richness of the sandwich perfectly. On game day, these sandwiches cut into quarters make fantastic appetizers alongside other finger foods.
Storage Wisdom
These sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately after cooking, but if you need to make them ahead, let them cool completely before wrapping in aluminum foil and refrigerating. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warm throughout. Avoid microwaving if possible as this will make the bread soggy. The assembled but uncooked sandwiches can be prepared up to 4 hours ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread works best?
Any bread with a soft interior and crispy exterior when toasted works great. Sandwich bread is a convenient choice.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, try provolone, cheddar, or a mix of Italian cheeses for variation in flavor.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
Omit the mini pepperoni slices and add your favorite veggies, like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers.
- → Can I cook this without butter?
For a lighter option, use olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray instead of butter.
- → What’s the best way to serve it?
Slice the sandwich into halves or quarters and serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.