Sandwich

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas

Name: Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 4 slices Sara Lee® Artesano™ bread; 4 slices mozzarella cheese, cut 1/8-inch thick; 18 slices pepperoni, microwaved for 20 seconds and excess grease blotted off; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/4 teaspoon Italian herbs; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/8 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a subtle heat; 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan for extra flavor in the garlic butter

Irene Adkins December 14, 2024

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Your Pizza Grilled Cheese

If you’re anything like me, you’ll agree that pizza grilled cheese is a culinary dream. But what can you pair this cheesy delight with? Here are some tasty side ideas that will elevate your meal:

A classic dipping sauce. Its tangy flavor thrives against the melt-in-your-mouth cheese.

A light, refreshing side helps balance the richness of the grilled cheese. Think mixed greens with a simple lemon vinaigrette.

Their crunch and acidity clean the palate nicely. You can either opt for classic dill or try spicy, sweet varieties.

Crispy, golden fries tossed with garlic and herbs perfectly complement the gooey center of your sandwich.

A fizzy drink cuts through the heaviness. Pick something citrusy for additional zest.

What is Pizza Grilled Cheese?

Pizza grilled cheese is a mouthwatering takeaway from your favorite pizzeria, wedged inside two slices of buttery bread. Let’s paint a picture: You bite into a crispy, golden crust, and almost instantly, warm, gooey mozzarella spills out. Sprinkled inside are slices of pepperoni and a hint of garlic butter—a nod to those flavorful pizzas we crave.

This sandwich isn’t just a treat; it’s a delightful compromise for anyone torn between pizza and a classic grilled cheese. With each bite, you will find a melange of flavors that can turn even the gloomiest of days into a fiesta.

Why You’ll Love This Pizza Grilled Cheese

So, why will you adore this sandwich? Let’s dig in!

Texture Play: Imagine the crunch of the golden-browned bread contrasting against the stretchy cheese—a texture lover’s dream! Each bite is a delightful adventure.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and zesty herbs creates a flavor profile that appeals to everyone. Your taste buds will serenade you!
Easy to Customize: This dish is a blank canvas. You can add veggies, swap the cheese, or switch out the protein. Customize effortlessly to suit your cravings.
Quick and Convenient: Making pizza grilled cheese takes little time. In under 15 minutes, you can go from zero to cheesy hero.
Kid-Friendly: The appeal of melted cheese and flavorful toppings will have kids clamoring for more. It’s a win for all on family dinner nights.
Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to spend a fortune to make this dish. Most ingredients can be found in your pantry or local grocery.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Pizza Grilled Cheese

Getting the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you need:

4 slices of Sara Lee® Artesano™ bread: Soft and sturdy for that perfect toasty crunch.
4 slices of mozzarella cheese: A must for that gooey texture.
18 slices of pepperoni: Adds that delicious savory kick. Make sure to zap it in the microwave for a bit—this reduces excess grease.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Essential for grilling.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for garlic butter): This takes the flavor up a notch.
Herbs and spices: 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley, Italian herbs, garlic powder, 1/8 teaspoon sea salt, and 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for that added warmth.
1 teaspoon grated Parmesan: For extra flavor in the garlic butter.

Directions

Now that we have our ingredients, it’s time to put our culinary plan into motion.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering everything. Slice your cheese and pepperoni. This makes the process smoother and quicker—like greased lightning!

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

Combine the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter with the parsley, Italian herbs, garlic powder, sea salt, and the grated Parmesan. Mix it well. The aroma will instantly awaken your senses—trust me, you won’t want to skip this step!

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Preheat your skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to give the bread that golden crunch without burning.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread a thin layer of the garlic butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice in the skillet, butter side down. Layer on your mozzarella, followed by the pepperoni. Finally, top it with another slice of mozzarella and cover with the second slice of bread, butter side up.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Cook for about 4-5 minutes, checking frequently. Once the bottom bread is golden, carefully flip the sandwich. Grill for another 4-5 minutes, or until cheese is lovingly melted.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once finished, remove from the skillet. Let it rest for a minute—if you can! Cut the sandwich in half and take a moment to admire your culinary achievement before digging in.

Notes

Here are some additional tips to ensure you create the best pizza grilled cheese:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheese make all the difference. Go for the good stuff.
Don’t Rush the Heat: Medium heat allows the cheese to melt nicely while the bread toasts evenly.
Experiment with Toppings: Remember, toppings can be swapped or added. Try mushrooms or peppers for an extra veggie delight.
Grill in Batches: If making multiple sandwiches, do so one or two at a time. This way, you manage the cooking temp better.
Serve Immediately: Grilled cheese is best enjoyed hot. If you have leftovers, reheat them in a skillet for crispy edges.

Storage Tips

Let’s talk about storing those leftovers. If you happen to have any:

Refrigerate: Store them in an airtight container as soon as they’re cool.
Consume within 2 days: They’re best eaten fresh, but you can keep them for this timeframe. After that, the bread gets soggy.
Reheat on the stove: Avoid the microwave, as it may ruin that crispiness.

Nutrition Information

Curious about what’s in your creation? Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 520
Protein: 24 grams
Carbohydrates: 42 grams
Fat: 32 grams
Sodium: 1320 mg (consider lower-sodium options if you’re watching salt intake)

Keep in mind that this can vary based on the brand of ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some creative ways to serve your pizza grilled cheese:

With a Side Salad: Pair it with arugula, kale, or your favorite greens to bring freshness.
Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside marinara or ranch dressing for extra yumminess.
Make it a Meal: Add a side of garlic fries for an indulgent feast.
Sliced Up: Cut into smaller pieces for a fun appetizer at parties or gatherings.
With a Twist: Add avocado slices or jalapeños for something different.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Pizza Grilled Cheese?

Looking to modify your pizza grilled cheese? Here are some easy swaps:

Vegan Cheese: For a dairy-free version, almond or cashew cheeses work well.
Whole Wheat Bread: A healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Turkey Pepperoni: Swap for a leaner alternative without sacrificing taste.
Sourdough Bread: For a unique, tangy flavor—really elevates the dish!
Different Cheeses: Blend mozzarella with gouda, cheddar, or provolone for a flavor boost.

Conclusion

Pizza grilled cheese is an extraordinary dish that combines the best of two worlds. Its flexibility means that you can always customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. This sandwich not only offers a flavorful escape with each bite, but it also brings people together. The smell of toasted bread and melted cheese is simply irresistible!

So, fire up your skillet and enjoy a tasty adventure. Get creative with your toppings, pair it with delightful sides, and create lasting memories around the table. Remember, cooking is as much about joy and love as it is about the food itself. Now, who’s ready for a cheesy slice of happiness?

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Print Recipe

Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas

Author: Irene Adkins Cuisine: American Courses: Sandwich

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 10 mins

Servings: 2 Calories: 520 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Today, we’re diving into a dish that combines two fan favorites: pizza and grilled cheese. Yes, you heard it right! This hybrid creation brings warmth to the heart and joy to the taste buds.

Imagine a sandwich with gooey cheese, zesty tomato sauce, and flavorful toppings—comfort food at its finest. Let’s get into the scrumptious details, so grab a pen, or just bookmark this page!