Name: Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices of bread (sourdough or hearty bread); 4 tablespoons butter (softened); 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 12 slices pepperoni; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

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Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches combine the best of both worlds—gooey melted cheese, crispy golden bread, and the irresistible flavors of pizza. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a fun dinner, this recipe offers the classic comfort of a grilled cheese with a twist. With marinara sauce, pepperoni, and a blend of cheeses tucked between buttery, toasted bread, each bite is packed with all the deliciousness of pizza.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it takes two beloved dishes—pizza and grilled cheese—and combines them into something truly magical. The crispy, buttery bread forms the perfect base, while the melted cheese gives me that familiar cheesy goodness. Adding the pizza toppings like marinara sauce, pepperoni, and extra cheese brings all the flavors I adore from a pizza, but in a sandwich form! It’s easy to make and is always a hit with everyone at the table. If you love pizza and grilled cheese, this is the best of both worlds in one dish.

Ingredients

8 slices of bread (I like using sourdough or any hearty bread)
4 tablespoons butter (softened)
1 cup marinara sauce (I use a store-bought one for convenience)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 slices pepperoni (or more, depending on preference)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, for extra pizza flavor)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by buttering one side of each slice of bread. The buttered side will be the outside of the sandwich for that crispy golden finish.
On the non-buttered side of four slices of bread, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce, followed by some cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Add pepperoni slices on top of the cheese. I love adding a little extra for a more pizza-like experience.
Sprinkle a pinch of dried oregano and garlic powder (if using) to give it that classic pizza seasoning flavor.
Top each sandwich with the remaining four slices of bread, buttered side up.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches on the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the cheese has melted inside.
Once both sides are crispy and the cheese is fully melted, remove from the skillet, slice, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches, perfect for 2-4 servings. It takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

Variations

There are so many ways I can mix up this recipe! If I’m in the mood for a veggie twist, I can add sliced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sandwich. For a spicier version, I might throw in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. If I’m craving a more loaded pizza feel, adding some cooked sausage or olives can really take it to the next level. For a different cheese combination, I sometimes add a bit of provolone or even fontina for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

To store any leftover sandwiches, I wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheating them can be done in a skillet over low heat, making sure to cover it to get that crispy texture back. Alternatively, I can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to heat them through without losing that golden crunch.

FAQs

Can I make Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! I can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate them until I’m ready to cook. Just make sure to keep them covered to avoid the bread drying out.

Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Definitely! I can use any bread I prefer—white, whole wheat, rye, or even a ciabatta roll. The key is to make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings.

Can I skip the pepperoni if I don’t eat meat?

Of course! I can easily make a vegetarian version by leaving out the pepperoni and adding extra veggies like mushrooms, olives, or spinach for a more pizza-like experience.

Can I freeze these sandwiches?

Yes! I can freeze assembled, uncooked sandwiches. To cook, I’ll just heat them directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time slightly to ensure they are heated through.

What can I serve with Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches?

I love serving these sandwiches with a side of salad or some crispy potato wedges. If I’m feeling indulgent, I might even serve them with extra marinara sauce for dipping!

Conclusion

Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are an easy and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a cozy sandwich form. With gooey cheese, crispy bread, and the classic pizza toppings, it’s no wonder this dish is such a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m making it for myself or sharing with friends and family, it’s always a hit. Give it a try next time you’re craving pizza, and I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I do!