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Ultimate Pizza Grilled Cheese
Aima Solace

Ultimate Pizza Grilled Cheese Recipe

A crispy, cheesy sandwich that combines the gooey comfort of grilled cheese with classic pizza flavors, featuring mozzarella, pepperoni, and marinara sauce.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices sourdough bread or white bread
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or fresh mozzarella, sliced thinly
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 16 slices pepperoni or mushrooms for vegetarian
  • ¼ cup marinara sauce or pizza sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning optional
  • Pinch of garlic powder optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare the bread: Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
  2. Layer the cheese: Place two slices, buttered side down, on a surface. Sprinkle ¼ cup mozzarella and ⅛ cup cheddar on each.
  3. Add toppings: Arrange 8 pepperoni slices per sandwich. Spoon 1-2 tbsp marinara sauce over pepperoni, spreading evenly. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic powder, if using.
  4. Top with cheese: Add another ¼ cup mozzarella and ⅛ cup cheddar over the sauce. Place remaining bread slices, buttered side up, on top.
  5. Cook: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden and melty.
  6. Serve: Slice diagonally and serve with extra marinara for dipping.
  7. Air Fryer Option: Brush bread with olive oil instead of butter. Preheat air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.

Notes

  • Keep it crispy: Use low-moisture mozzarella and thick marinara to prevent sogginess. Cook over medium heat without a lid.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer.
  • Substitutions: Swap pepperoni for veggies or use gluten-free bread. Try pesto or alfredo sauce for variety.
  • Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara for a kick.

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