This Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a fun twist on two classics! It’s oozing with gooey cheese and packed with tasty pepperoni, all nestled between crispy, buttery bread.
You can’t go wrong with cheese and pepperoni! I love making these for a quick lunch, but be careful—they disappear fast! Grab your favorite marinara for dipping, and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: White bread is classic here, but you can use sourdough or whole grain for a healthier twist. I love sourdough for its crusty texture that holds up well with all the gooey filling.
Pepperoni: If you’re not a fan of pepperoni, try using turkey pepperoni or even a mix of your favorite deli meats. You can also skip the meat and use roasted veggies instead for a veggie-packed version.
Cheese: Mozzarella is perfect for that stretchy, melty quality. However, feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for added flavor. Just remember to keep the cheese’s meltability in mind!
Pizza Sauce: For a quick swap, use store-bought marinara or even pesto for an exciting twist. Homemade sauce is great, too, if you have the time!
How Do I Get My Grilled Cheese Perfectly Crispy and Cheesy?
Getting a grilled cheese sandwich crispy on the outside while keeping the cheese melted inside can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your skillet to medium heat. This allows the butter to melt nicely and prevents burning.
- Don’t rush it! Give each side about 3-5 minutes for that perfect golden-brown color.
- Butter the bread evenly and consider adding seasoning. This adds flavor and enhances that crispy texture!
- Check for melty cheese by pressing down slightly on the sandwich with your spatula. You want everything to blend together beautifully.
These tips will help ensure you have a delightful, crunchy outside and gooey inside every time!
Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 slices of white bread (or your favorite sandwich bread)
- 8 oz sliced pepperoni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce, plus extra for serving
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare and cook these yummy sandwiches. Just preheat your skillet, assemble the sandwiches, and cook them up for a quick, delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Skillet:
Start by preheating your skillet or griddle over medium heat. This ensures your sandwich will cook evenly and get that nice golden crust.
2. Butter the Bread:
Take your softened butter and spread it evenly on one side of each slice of bread. If you want to amp up the flavor, you can sprinkle a little Italian seasoning and garlic powder onto the buttered sides.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Place 4 slices of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet. On each slice, spread about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
4. Layer with Pepperoni:
Next, pile on those delicious pepperoni slices over the cheese. To make sure everything sticks together, add another layer of mozzarella cheese on top of the pepperoni.
5. Top It Off:
Now, take the remaining slices of bread and place them on top, buttered side up. Press down gently to help everything stay in place.
6. Cook the Sandwiches:
Let the sandwiches cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Using a spatula, carefully flip them over and cook for another 3-5 minutes on the other side until it’s also golden and the cheese oozes out when you cut into it.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. This will help the cheese set a little. Cut the sandwiches in half and serve them hot with extra pizza sauce or marinara for dipping.
Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite of your Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich! It’s the perfect blend of two classics that never fails to impress.
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While white bread is classic, you can try sourdough, whole grain, or even ciabatta for unique flavors and textures.
How Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Simply omit the pepperoni and replace it with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian version!
What Should I Do with Leftover Sandwiches?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a touch of butter to crisp them up again.
Can I Prepare This Sandwich in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook! Just keep in mind that the bread may get a bit soft. Cook them straight from the fridge for best results.
