I swear, this sandwich was one of those happy accidents. We were this close to ordering pizza (again), but I realized we had everything in the fridge to make something just as cheesy and satisfying—without the wait. And thus, this pepperoni pizza grilled cheese was born. I promise, it’s ridiculously simple, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll end up making it way too often.
What I love about this recipe is how it gives you the best of both worlds: the gooey, melty goodness of grilled cheese and the salty, savory pizza flavors we all crave. Plus, it’s super quick to throw together, perfect for when you need that pizza fix in under 15 minutes. I’m telling you, this sandwich is dangerous (in the best way).
Ingredients
- 2 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough is my go-to, but really, any bread works!)
- 1-2 tablespoons softened butter (because who doesn’t want that crispy, golden crust?)
- 2-3 tablespoons pizza sauce (or marinara—I’ve used leftover spaghetti sauce in a pinch)
- 4-6 slices of pepperoni (more if you’re feeling indulgent, which I usually am)
- 2 slices mozzarella cheese (or enough to blanket your bread—you know the drill)
- A pinch of grated parmesan (optional, but highly encouraged)
- A sprinkle of dried oregano or Italian seasoning (because we’re going for full pizza vibes here)
Directions
- Butter your bread: Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Be generous here, this is what gives you that perfect, golden crunch. I’ve tried using less butter, and it just wasn’t the same, so don’t skimp!
- Assemble the sandwich: Take one slice of bread (buttered side down) and spread the pizza sauce on the unbuttered side. Now, layer on your mozzarella, followed by the pepperoni slices. I like to sprinkle a little dried oregano at this point, just to make it feel even more pizza-like. And if you’re a parmesan lover like me, throw a little of that on top too. It’s pizza grilled cheese—there are no rules. (Source: Ineskohl.info)
- Close it up: Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up. Now you’ve got yourself a little sandwich ready for its golden transformation.
- Grill it: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side. Don’t rush it—let that bread get nice and golden. When you flip it, press down gently with your spatula to make sure everything inside gets all melty and delicious.
Oh, and if your cheese starts oozing out a bit? Perfect. That crispy edge where the cheese hits the pan is a mini bonus snack.
- Flip and repeat: Flip the sandwich and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. You want the cheese to be fully melted, and both sides of the bread to be golden and crispy.
- Slice and devour: Once the sandwich is done, let it sit for a minute before slicing it in half (I know, the waiting is the hardest part). Cut it in half, and watch that glorious cheese stretch—so satisfying.
A few tips (from experience):
- Sauce control: Be careful not to go overboard on the pizza sauce—it can make your bread a little soggy if you’re too heavy-handed. I learned that the hard way. But if that happens, no biggie, it’ll still taste amazing.
- Extra cheese, extra love: If you’re a cheese fanatic, feel free to add more than just mozzarella. I sometimes sneak in a bit of provolone or even a sprinkle of sharp cheddar. Totally optional, but totally worth it.
- Dip it! If you’re into dipping like me, warm up some extra pizza sauce on the side for dunking. It’s like a mini pizza party with every bite.
Why You’ll Love It
This sandwich has seriously become a go-to in our house—especially when we’re craving pizza but want it now. It’s fun, easy, and takes me right back to childhood pizza nights, but with the grown-up comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich. You get that crispy crust from the bread, the gooey cheese, and all the pepperoni goodness in every bite. Honestly, what’s not to love?
Trust me, once you’ve made it, this pepperoni pizza grilled cheese will be on repeat in your kitchen too. Enjoy!
