This Pizza Grilled Cheese is a mouthwatering mash-up of two comfort food classics: the gooey, crispy magic of grilled cheese and the cheesy, saucy flavors of a classic slice of pizza. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack. Every bite is filled with melted mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy golden bread—basically, everything I crave when I want something fast and comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish, with no fancy ingredients or techniques required. It's ideal for when I’m short on time but still want something warm and indulgent. I can customize it with my favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni or olives, and it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover pizza ingredients or deli meat.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Bread slices (white, sourdough, or your favorite)
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Mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
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Pepperoni slices (optional)
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Pizza sauce
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Butter or mayonnaise (for spreading on the outside of the bread)
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Optional add-ins: sliced olives, cooked sausage, mushrooms, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes
Directions
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I start by heating a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
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I butter one side of each slice of bread (or use mayo for extra crispiness).
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I place one slice, butter side down, onto the skillet and spread a spoonful of pizza sauce on the top.
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I layer mozzarella cheese, optional pepperoni, and any other toppings I’m craving.
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I top it with the second slice of bread, butter side up.
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I grill until the bottom is golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side until the cheese is melted and both sides are crispy.
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Once done, I remove it from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before slicing.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 sandwich, perfect for one serving, but I easily double or triple it to serve more. It takes about 10 minutes total—5 minutes for prep and 5 minutes for cooking.
Variations
I like to mix things up by swapping mozzarella for a cheese blend like provolone and cheddar. Sometimes I use pesto instead of pizza sauce for a fun twist. If I want a vegetarian option, I load it up with spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers, I wrap the sandwich in foil and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place it in a skillet over low heat until it’s warmed through and crispy again. I avoid microwaving because it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
How do I keep the bread from burning before the cheese melts?
I keep the heat at medium to medium-low and cover the skillet briefly with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly while the bread toasts.
Can I use a toaster oven instead of a skillet?
Yes, I sometimes make this in a toaster oven or even a panini press—it turns out just as crispy and delicious.
What’s the best bread to use?
I like thick-cut white bread or sourdough for the best texture, but any sturdy bread will do the trick.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. I use dairy-free cheese and vegan butter when I need a dairy-free version, and it still melts beautifully.
What dipping sauces go well with Pizza Grilled Cheese?
I love dipping mine in extra pizza sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy marinara if I’m feeling bold.
Conclusion
This Pizza Grilled Cheese hits the spot every time I’m in the mood for something cheesy, crispy, and totally satisfying. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and brings together two of my favorite foods into one epic sandwich. Whether I’m feeding myself or a hungry crowd, it’s always a guaranteed winner.
Pizza Grilled Cheese
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pizza Grilled Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, blending crispy grilled cheese with gooey mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and optional pepperoni. Quick, customizable, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack—this sandwich brings pizza flavor in every bite. A fast and easy 15-minute meal that’s kid-friendly and adult-approved.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread (white, sourdough, or preferred variety)
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
- 4–5 slices of pepperoni (optional)
- 2 tbsp pizza sauce
- 1 tbsp butter or mayonnaise (for spreading on bread)
- Optional: sliced olives, cooked sausage, mushrooms, fresh basil, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Spread butter or mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice, buttered side down, on the skillet. Spread pizza sauce on top.
- Layer with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and other optional toppings.
- Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Grill until golden brown on the bottom, then flip and cook until both sides are crispy and cheese is melted.
- Let cool for a minute before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use a cheese blend or add Italian herbs to the pizza sauce.
- Pesto is a great alternative to pizza sauce for a fun twist.
- To make dairy-free, use vegan cheese and butter.
- A panini press or toaster oven works well for cooking, too.
- Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, extra pizza sauce, or marinara.
