Imagine the gooey, melty goodness of a perfect grilled cheese sandwich colliding with the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite pepperoni pizza. That’s exactly what this Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese delivers! It’s the ultimate comfort food mashup that satisfies two cravings in one delicious handheld package.
I created this recipe on a rainy Friday night when I couldn’t decide between pizza delivery or a quick grilled cheese. The result was so phenomenal that it’s become a regular in our weeknight dinner rotation. The crispy, buttery bread gives way to stretchy mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a hint of herby marinara that’ll transport you straight to your favorite pizzeria.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 15 minutes – faster than pizza delivery and just as satisfying!
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your fridge and pantry
- Perfectly crispy exterior with that Instagram-worthy cheese pull when you take a bite
- Kid-approved but sophisticated enough for adults to enjoy
- Easily customizable with your favorite pizza toppings
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut sandwich bread
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12 slices pepperoni
- 2 tablespoons marinara or pizza sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
- Spread 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce evenly on one side of each bread slice. Don't use too much or the bread will get soggy.
- On the sauce side of one bread slice, layer half the mozzarella cheese, then arrange the pepperoni slices, and top with the remaining cheese. This ensures the pepperoni stays in place.
- Place the second bread slice on top, sauce side down, pressing gently to help everything stick together.
- Spread softened butter evenly on both outer sides of the sandwich. This creates that perfect golden, crispy crust.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.
- Remove from heat and let the sandwich rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing diagonally. This helps the cheese set slightly and prevents it from oozing out.
Tips & Variations
- Swap in your favorite pizza toppings like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or substitute pepperoni with spicy salami
- Use a panini press for quicker, evenly cooked sandwiches with beautiful grill marks
- Pat the pepperoni with paper towels before adding to remove excess grease
- For a lower-carb option, use cloud bread or low-carb tortillas instead of sourdough
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the pepperoni and adding more veggies
Serving Suggestions
Serve these indulgent sandwiches with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A small bowl of warm marinara sauce on the side makes a perfect dipping option for those who want extra pizza flavor.
For a complete meal, pair with crispy baked zucchini fries or a cup of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience. A cold craft beer or sparkling Italian soda completes the meal beautifully.
Notes
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness.
- You’ll know the sandwich is done when the cheese is completely melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, lower the heat and cover the pan with a lid for 30 seconds.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time for quick assembly.
What’s the best bread to use?
Sourdough works wonderfully for its sturdiness and flavor, but Texas toast, Italian bread, or ciabatta are excellent alternatives.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 370°F and cook for about 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cheese is melted.
How do I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy?
Use a light hand with the marinara sauce and ensure your pepperoni is patted dry. Cooking the sandwich immediately after assembly also helps maintain crispiness.
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