Pizza Grilled Cheese

Introduction:

Pizza Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mash-up that combines the classic flavors of pizza with the comforting warmth of grilled cheese sandwiches. This mouthwatering creation features gooey melted cheese, zesty marinara sauce, and savory toppings sandwiched between two slices of crispy, golden-brown bread. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch, easy dinner, or indulgent snack, Pizza Grilled Cheese is sure to satisfy your cravings for both pizza and grilled cheese. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this irresistible dish at home.

Ingredients:

• cup unsalted butter very soft
• 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

For assembly:

• 8 slices white bread
• 12 slices mozzarella cheese
• 6 ounces pepperoni
• Warm pizza sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, place the butter, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning and mix it together until all is combined and smooth.
2. Spread the butter mixture over one side of the bread slices evenly. Then lay the pieces of bread butter side up onto a sheet tray until youre ready to use them.
3. Over medium-low heat, in a skillet, place a piece of bread butter side down into the skillet. Then place a slice of mozzarella on top of the bread. Then, add 6 pepperoni slices, followed by another slice of mozzarella cheese, 6 more pepperonis, and a final slice of mozzarella cheese.
4. Place the top piece of bread on, butter side up. You may end up with leftover pepperoni.
5. Place a lid on the skillet to help melt the cheese, and cook until the bottom of the bottom piece of bread is a golden brown, typically takes about 3-5 minutes. Carefully flip the sandwich over using a spatula. Place the lid back on again and continue to cook the other side, until its golden brown on the bottom and the cheese is melted in the center. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.
6. Serve immediately with warm pizza sauce for dipping and enjoy.
7. PREP: 10 min, TOTAL: 20 min, SERVINGS: 4

Serving Tips:

1. Pair with Tomato Soup: Serve your Pizza Grilled Cheese alongside a bowl of hot tomato soup for a classic and comforting combination. The rich and gooey grilled cheese perfectly complements the tangy sweetness of the soup.
2. Add Fresh Ingredients: Enhance the flavor and presentation of your Pizza Grilled Cheese by adding fresh ingredients like sliced tomatoes, basil leaves, or arugula between the layers of cheese and pepperoni. This adds a burst of freshness and texture to each bite.
3. Dip in Marinara Sauce: For an extra touch of pizza flavor, serve your grilled cheese with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. The savory sauce pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness of the sandwich, elevating it to new heights of deliciousness.
4. Cut into Triangles: To make your Pizza Grilled Cheese even more appealing, consider cutting it into triangles before serving. This not only makes it easier to handle but also adds a fun and nostalgic twist to the presentation.
5. Garnish with Parmesan: Before serving, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your grilled cheese for an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance. This adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have any leftover Pizza Grilled Cheese, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
2. Reheat in a Pan: When ready to enjoy leftover grilled cheese, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy. This helps retain the texture and flavor of the sandwich.
3. Freeze for Later: If you want to save your Pizza Grilled Cheese for longer storage, you can freeze it. Wrap each sandwich individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.
4. Thaw Before Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw frozen grilled cheese sandwiches in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat them using the skillet method mentioned above until heated through.
5. Refresh Before Serving: Before serving reheated grilled cheese, consider giving it a quick refresh by adding a sprinkle of extra cheese or a drizzle of marinara sauce for a burst of flavor and moisture. This helps revive the sandwich and makes it taste freshly made.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of cheese for my Pizza Grilled Cheese? Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for pizza, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for added flavor and variety.
2. Can I make Pizza Grilled Cheese without pepperoni? Of course! Pizza Grilled Cheese is highly customizable. You can omit the pepperoni altogether or substitute it with other toppings like sliced ham, bacon, mushrooms, or bell peppers to suit your taste preferences.
3. What type of bread works best for Pizza Grilled Cheese? Sturdy bread like Italian bread, ciabatta, or sourdough works best for Pizza Grilled Cheese. These bread varieties hold up well to the cheese and toppings without becoming soggy.
4. Can I make Pizza Grilled Cheese in a toaster or sandwich press? While it’s possible to make Pizza Grilled Cheese in a toaster or sandwich press, it may not achieve the same crispy texture and melty goodness as cooking it on the stovetop in a skillet. However, you can certainly give it a try and adjust the cooking time as needed.
5. Can I add additional toppings to my Pizza Grilled Cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You can add ingredients like sliced olives, onions, jalapeños, pineapple, or even leftover roasted vegetables for a unique flavor twist. Just be mindful not to overload the sandwich, as it may become difficult to handle and cook evenly.

Conclusion:

Pizza Grilled Cheese is a fun and delicious twist on two beloved classics, combining the flavors of pizza with the comfort of grilled cheese sandwiches. With its gooey cheese, zesty marinara sauce, and customizable toppings, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite among pizza and grilled cheese lovers alike. Whether enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a tasty snack, Pizza Grilled Cheese is a satisfying treat that will leave you craving seconds. Give this recipe a try and experience the ultimate fusion of flavors in every bite!