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Pizza grilled cheese sandwich with melted mozzarella

Pizza Grilled Cheese

This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a fun, gooey twist on two beloved classics, combining melty mozzarella, tangy pizza sauce, and your favorite toppings between golden, buttery bread. Each bite delivers the comforting flavors of pizza in a perfectly crisp, cheesy sandwich. Quick, satisfying, and irresistibly delicious, it’s a playful meal everyone will love.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Lunch, sandwich
Cuisine American
Servings 2 Sandwiches
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices bread
  • White sourdough, or Italian bread work best.
  • 2 tablespoons butter softened
  • For spreading on the outside of the bread.
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Use low-moisture mozzarella for best melting.
  • ¼ cup shredded provolone or cheddar cheese
  • Adds depth and extra meltiness.
  • ¼ cup marinara sauce
  • Thick sauce works best to prevent soggy bread.
  • 12 –16 slices pepperoni optional
  • Or use cooked sausage mushrooms, or olives.
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions  

1. Prep the Bread

  • Lay out all four slices of bread. Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice. This buttered side will face outward when grilling.

2. Build the Sandwich

  • Flip two slices over so the buttered side is down. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the unbuttered side. Sprinkle mozzarella and provolone evenly over the sauce.
  • Add pepperoni or your chosen toppings, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing up.

3. Heat the Pan

  • Heat a nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-low heat. Allow the pan to warm gradually—this helps the cheese melt before the bread browns too quickly.

4. Grill the Sandwich

  • Place sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula. Flip carefully once the bottom is golden brown.

5. Finish and Serve

  • Once both sides are crispy and the cheese is fully melted, remove from the pan. Let rest for 1 minute before slicing. Serve warm.

Video

Notes

📝 Notes

  • Use sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian bread for best structure.
  • Mozzarella melts best, but a mix with provolone adds extra flavor.
  • Spread butter evenly on the outside for a golden, crispy crust.
  • Add pepperoni, cooked sausage, or olives for classic pizza vibes.
  • Cook on low to medium heat to melt cheese without burning bread.
  • Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
  • Swap marinara with pizza sauce or pesto for variation.
  • Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated on a skillet.

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 420 kcal,
Carbohydrates: 34 g,
Fiber: 2 g,
Sugars: 6 g,
Protein: 18 g,
Fat: 24 g,
Saturated Fat: 12 g,
Cholesterol: 55 mg,
Sodium: 780 mg,
Potassium: 210 mg,
Calcium: 320 mg,
Iron: 2.2 mg
Keyword Pizza Grilled Cheese