Pizza Grilled Cheese

Gooey cheese and pizza toppings made into a classic sandwich, how can you go wrong with this ultimate pizza grilled cheese? Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack, this recipe brings together all your favorite pizza flavors in a comforting grilled cheese format. With its rich flavors and melty texture, it’s sure to delight both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like bell peppers or olives to make it your own.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and provolone creates an irresistible gooey texture.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun twist on classic grilled cheese and pizza, making it a hit for family dinners.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a cozy night in, this sandwich fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create your Pizza Grilled Cheese.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Nonstick skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Spatula
• Grater (for the mozzarella)

Why These Tools Matter

• Nonstick skillet: Ensures easy flipping of the sandwiches without sticking or tearing.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the butter mixture smoothly before applying it to the bread.
• Spatula: Helps lift and flip the sandwiches with ease while maintaining their structure.

Ingredients

Gooey cheese and pizza toppings made into a classic sandwich, how can you go wrong with this ultimate pizza grilled cheese?

For the Sandwich

• 8 slices Italian sandwich bread
• 6 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 48 slices of full-size turkey turkey turkey pepperoni (12 slices per sandwich)
• 2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese (½ cup per sandwich)
• 8 slices smoked provolone cheese
• 8 tablespoons pizza sauce

How to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Butter Mixture

1. Add the melted butter, extra virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, and onion powder to a small mixing bowl.
2. Whisk or stir to combine until well-blended.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

1. Heat a 10 to 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Generously brush one side of two pieces of bread with the butter mixture.
2. Place these two pieces in the skillet with the butter side facing down.
3. Carefully spoon and spread 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce over each slice in the skillet.
4. Lay one slice of provolone on top of each sauce layer.
5. Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella over the provolone layer on each sandwich.
6. Lay 12 slices of turkey turkey turkey pepperoni over each sandwich.
7. Add another ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella on top of the turkey turkey turkey pepperoni layer.
8. Finish by placing another slice of provolone on top.

Step 4: Cook the Sandwiches

1. Place the top slices of bread on top of the provolone layer.
2. Generously brush these top slices with the remaining butter mixture.
3. Cook each sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye as they cook to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serve Your Creation

1. Carefully slice each sandwich in half and serve while hot for maximum gooeyness and flavor!

How to Serve Pizza Grilled Cheese

Pizza grilled cheese is a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a cozy snack, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons make a refreshing side.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil complement the flavors of the grilled cheese.
• Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese adds zest to your meal.

Include Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: A classic choice that enhances the pizza flavors in the sandwich.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and tangy, it adds a nice contrast to the richness of the grilled cheese.
• Garlic Aioli: This garlicky dip brings an extra layer of flavor to every bite.

Add Crunch with Chips

• Potato Chips: Classic potato chips offer a satisfying crunch alongside the gooey sandwich.
• Veggie Chips: A healthier alternative that still provides that satisfying crunch.

How to Perfect Pizza Grilled Cheese

Achieving the perfect pizza grilled cheese involves attention to detail. Use these tips for an unbeatable sandwich experience.

• Bold Butter Coating: Generously brush both sides of the bread with butter mixture for a crispy exterior.
• Layer Wisely: Start with sauce on one slice and layer cheese and toppings in between for even melting.
• Heat Control: Cook on medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded versions for optimal gooeyness.
• Press Down Gently: Lightly pressing down on the sandwich ensures even cooking and helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Pizza Grilled Cheese

To elevate your pizza grilled cheese meal, consider adding these delicious side dishes. Each option pairs well and complements the rich flavors of your sandwich.

1. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup is a classic pairing that balances cheesy goodness perfectly.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet fries add a fun twist to your meal.
3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich sandwich.
4. Pickle Chips: Tangy pickle chips are great for cutting through the richness of the grilled cheese.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a sweet contrast that brightens up your plate.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies make for a hearty side that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pizza Grilled Cheese, it’s easy to make a few missteps that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the butter mixture: Not using the butter blend can lead to dry bread. Make sure to brush both sides of your bread with the mixture for a crispy exterior.
• Overloading on toppings: Adding too many toppings can cause the sandwich to fall apart. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese won’t melt properly and can ruin your sandwich. Always opt for high-quality mozzarella and provolone for gooey goodness.
• Cooking at too high heat: Cooking on high heat may burn the bread before the cheese melts. Keep your skillet on medium heat for even cooking.
• Not preheating the skillet: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your skillet before adding your sandwiches to ensure a nice golden crust.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil.

Freezing Pizza Grilled Cheese

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Pizza Grilled Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, checking frequently. This method may lead to soggy bread.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes per side, ensuring it gets crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pizza Grilled Cheese?

Pizza Grilled Cheese is a delicious sandwich combining gooey cheese and popular pizza toppings, making it perfect comfort food.

How do I customize my Pizza Grilled Cheese?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switch up the meat with chicken or turkey. Get creative!

Can I make Pizza Grilled Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later enjoyment.

What type of bread works best?

Italian sandwich bread is ideal due to its texture and flavor, but feel free to use any thick-sliced bread you prefer.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Pizza Grilled Cheese?

Add extra herbs like basil or oregano, or use flavored pizza sauce for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Pizza Grilled Cheese recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The combination of ingredients allows for customization, so feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings. Give it a try; you’re sure to love this tasty twist on a classic grilled cheese!