Indulge in the Ultimate Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe Today!

Imagine the gooey, melted cheese and savory pepperoni of your favorite pizza, combined with the crisp, buttery goodness of a classic grilled cheese sandwich. This recipe for Pizza Grilled Cheese brings together the best of both worlds, creating a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Table of Contents

What is Pizza Grilled Cheese?

The Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods. It starts with slices of bread that are generously buttered and grilled to perfection, then layered with a marinara or pizza sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and pepperoni or your preferred pizza toppings. The result is a mouthwatering sandwich that combines the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza with the irresistible crunch of a grilled cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Pizza Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s a fun and creative way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a handheld, portable form. Plus, the combination of melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and the crisp, buttery bread creates a truly satisfying and indulgent experience.

Ingredients for Pizza Grilled Cheese

Essential Ingredients:

• 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
• 2 tbsp butter (softened)
• ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 slices of turkey pepperoni (or your preferred topping)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)

Ingredient Notes:

When selecting the bread for your Pizza Grilled Cheese, consider using a sturdy sourdough or a thick-sliced white or whole wheat bread. This will help the sandwich hold up to the layers of delicious toppings. For the cheese, opt for high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for maximum melty goodness. As for the pepperoni, you can use regular or turkey pepperoni, or even try different pizza toppings like sausage, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Butter Bread

Start by spreading the softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This will help create a crisp, golden-brown exterior when grilled.

Step 2: Assemble Sandwiches

On the unbuttered side of the bread, spread the marinara or pizza sauce. Layer the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, followed by the pepperoni slices. Sprinkle with the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side facing out.

Step 3: Cook

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

Once the Pizza Grilled Cheese is cooked, sprinkle the top with fresh chopped basil, if desired. Serve the sandwich warm, with extra marinara sauce for dipping on the side.

Variations on Pizza Grilled Cheese

Different Cheeses to Use

While the classic combination of mozzarella and Parmesan works beautifully, you can also experiment with other cheese varieties. Try using a blend of cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkling of Asiago cheese for added flavor.

Alternative Toppings

Customize your Pizza Grilled Cheese by swapping out the pepperoni for different pizza toppings, such as sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even vegetarian options like roasted veggies. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Seasonal Variations

Get creative with seasonal ingredients and flavors. For a festive twist, try a “Holiday Pizza Grilled Cheese” with cranberries, spinach, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Or, for a summer-inspired version, incorporate grilled pineapple, basil, and a balsamic reduction.

Pairing Suggestions

Side Dishes

The Pizza Grilled Cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad, a creamy tomato soup, or even a side of crispy tater tots or waffle fries for a truly indulgent experience.

Beverage Pairings

For the perfect accompaniment, sip on a cold glass of your favorite soda or lemonade. If you’re in the mood for something a little more grown-up, a crisp white wine or a hoppy craft beer can also complement the flavors of the Pizza Grilled Cheese quite nicely.

Storing and Reheating Pizza Grilled Cheese

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any Pizza Grilled Cheese leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer-term storage, you can also wrap the sandwiches individually and freeze them for up to 2 months.

Best Reheating Methods

To reheat your Pizza Grilled Cheese, you can either pop it back in the skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or place it in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs About Pizza Grilled Cheese

What is pizza grilled cheese?

The Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delicious fusion of two classic comfort foods – pizza and grilled cheese. It features layers of marinara or pizza sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and pepperoni or other pizza toppings, all sandwiched between slices of crispy, buttery grilled bread.

What is the best cheese for grilled pizza?

For the ultimate Pizza Grilled Cheese, the best cheese combination is a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan. Mozzarella provides the classic, melty cheese texture, while the Parmesan adds a savory, umami flavor. You can also experiment with other cheese varieties, such as cheddar, provolone, or Asiago, to create your own unique twist on the dish.

What did Gordon Ramsay put in his grilled cheese?

While Gordon Ramsay’s specific grilled cheese recipe may vary, he’s known for elevating the classic dish with unexpected ingredients. For example, he’s been spotted using a combination of cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, along with additions like caramelized onions, tomato chutney, or even a drizzle of truffle oil to take his grilled cheese to the next level.

What is the 1 ingredient upgrade for grilled cheese?

One simple ingredient that can take your grilled cheese to new heights is a high-quality, flavorful cheese. Swapping out the standard sliced cheese for a blend of artisanal cheeses, such as aged cheddar, fontina, or gruyère, can elevate the overall taste and texture of your grilled cheese sandwich. The key is to use cheeses that melt beautifully for that ooey-gooey, cheesy goodness.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Garlic Bread Bombs
• BBQ Pulled Pork Bacon Cheese Roll Bombs
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Stuffed Chicken Bombs
• Loaded Beef Nacho Bake

Conclusion

The Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With its layers of melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and crisp, buttery bread, this recipe is a true indulgence that the whole family will love. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering Pizza Grilled Cheese that will have you coming back for more.

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