This fun twist on a classic combines gooey cheese and spicy pepperoni, all packed between two crispy slices of bread. It’s like a pizza and a grilled cheese had a delicious baby!
I love making this when I want something quick and tasty. Just grill it up and enjoy the cheesy goodness. Plus, you can add extra toppings if you’re feeling wild! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A thick-cut bread is ideal for this sandwich. I love using sourdough for its flavor and crunch, but white bread also works great. For a healthier option, you can try whole grain or gluten-free bread.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the go-to cheese for that gooey texture. If you prefer a sharper flavor, blend in some cheddar or provolone. String cheese can be a fun substitute too—just cut it into pieces!
Pepperoni: Classic pepperoni is delicious, but feel free to switch it up! Turkey pepperoni is a lighter option, and you could even use diced cooked sausage or veggies like bell peppers for a twist.
Pizza Sauce: Any marinara or tomato sauce can work if you’re running short on pizza sauce. You can also make a quick sauce by mixing tomato sauce with some Italian herbs, just like I do!
How Do You Make the Perfect Grilled Cheese Toast?
Grilling the sandwich is key to achieving that golden, crispy crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat; too hot can burn the bread.
- Spread butter evenly on one side of the bread for that crisp exterior.
- Cook the sandwich for about 3-5 minutes until you see a nice golden color before flipping carefully.
- If the cheese isn’t melting completely, lower the heat and cover the pan for a couple of minutes—it helps the cheese melt without burning the bread.
Remember to let the sandwich sit for a minute before slicing. This helps the cheese set and prevents a gooey mess! Enjoy your creation!
Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of bread (thick-cut white or sourdough works well)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- (Optional) 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sandwich will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes assembling the ingredients and then a short time grilling it to crispy perfection. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Pan:
Start by preheating your skillet or griddle over medium heat. This will ensure your sandwich cooks evenly and gets that nice golden crust.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Spread butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This will help create a crispy, delicious exterior when grilling.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Take two slices of bread and place them butter side down on a clean surface or plate. On the unbuttered side, spread about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on each slice. You want enough sauce for flavor without making it soggy!
4. Add Cheese and Pepperoni:
Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce, then layer those pepperoni slices on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a sprinkle of oregano for extra flavor!
5. Finish Layering:
Top off the pepperoni with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Then, place the other slices of bread on top, with the buttered sides facing out, creating a sandwich.
6. Cook the Sandwich:
Carefully transfer the sandwiches to your preheated skillet. Allow them to cook for about 3-5 minutes on the first side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and Cook the Other Side:
Using a spatula, gently flip the sandwiches over and cook the other side for another 3-5 minutes. You want it to be crispy and the cheese melted through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once both sides are golden brown and the cheese is wonderfully gooey, remove the sandwiches from the heat. Let them sit for a minute before slicing in half to enjoy your cheesy, pepperoni-filled creation!
Dig into your crispy, melty, pepperoni-packed grilled cheese that tastes just like pizza in sandwich form! Perfect for any meal or snack time! 🍕🧀
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional for that gooey texture, you can mix in cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure you have a melty cheese to create that delicious goo!
What Can I Use Instead of Pizza Sauce?
If you don’t have pizza sauce, marinara or any tomato sauce will work fine! You can even mix plain tomato sauce with Italian herbs for a quick homemade pizza sauce substitute.
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the pepperoni and add your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also try adding olives or artichokes for a fun twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat to get the bread crispy again and keep the cheese melty!
