This Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a tasty twist on the classic! It combines gooey cheese, crispy pepperoni, and buttery bread into a warm, crunchy delight.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a sandwich that tastes like pizza? I often add some herbs for extra flavor. Serve it with marinara sauce for dipping, and it’s a hit every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend thick slices of white bread like Texas toast or sourdough for sturdiness. If you want a healthier option, whole grain bread can work nicely too, giving a different flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for its meltiness, but I also like to mix in provolone for a bolder taste. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based cheese shreds that can melt well.
Pepperoni: The classic choice for pizza flavor! You can replace it with turkey pepperoni or even use grilled veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought pizza sauce simplifies things, but homemade is even better if you have the time. You can substitute it with marinara sauce for a slightly different flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Crispy Sandwich?
Cooking this sandwich slowly is key to achieving that golden, crispy exterior while melting the cheese perfectly. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet on medium-low. This ensures even cooking without burning the butter or bread.
- Spread a generous layer of butter on the outside of the bread slices. Don’t skimp on the butter—it helps with the crispiness!
- Cook each side for 3-4 minutes. If it’s browning too fast, reduce the heat to allow the cheese to melt while the bread crisps.
- Press down gently with a spatula while cooking for even heat distribution and to help the cheese melt.
How to Make a Delicious Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 slices of thick white bread (like Texas toast or sourdough)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/3 cup pizza sauce or marinara
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- Optional: a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 6-8 minutes of cooking time. This means you can whip it up in just about 20 minutes, making it a quick and tasty meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Start by preheating a large skillet over medium-low heat. This will ensure we cook the sandwich gently, allowing the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Generously spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will give your sandwich that delicious golden crust.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
On the unbuttered side of two slices, spread some pizza sauce. Use about 1-2 tablespoons for each slice, depending on how saucy you like it!
4. Add the Cheeses:
Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and provolone cheese over the sauce. You want a good layer here, so don’t be shy!
5. Layer the Pepperoni:
Now, layer the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese. Feel free to add as many as you like! Let’s get that pizza flavor going!
6. Season it:
Sprinkle the dried oregano, basil, and those optional crushed red pepper flakes over the top. This will really elevate the flavors.
7. Top It Off:
Place the other slices of bread on top, buttered side facing out, to form your sandwich.
8. Cook the Sandwich:
Carefully place the sandwiches onto the preheated skillet. Cook them slowly for about 3-4 minutes until the bread becomes golden brown and crispy.
9. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Once the first side is perfectly browned, gently flip the sandwich using a spatula. Cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes, pressing down slightly with the spatula to help the cheese melt.
10. Check for Doneness:
When both sides are browned and the cheese is melting beautifully, remove the sandwich from heat.
11. Slice and Serve:
Let the sandwich rest for a minute before slicing it in half. Serve it up hot, with some warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your melty, pizza-flavored grilled cheese sandwich! It’s a fun twist on both grilled cheese and pizza that everyone loves!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While thick white bread like Texas toast or sourdough is ideal, you can use whole grain or even gluten-free bread if you prefer. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold all that delicious filling!
What If I Don’t Have Provolone Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute provolone with other melty cheeses such as cheddar or gouda. Each choice will give a different flavor profile, so pick one that you enjoy!
How Can I Make This Sandwich Spicier?
If you like a kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños along with the pepperoni. You could also serve it with a spicy marinara sauce for dipping!
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to cook them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy so they remain crispy and warm!
