Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Pizza Grilled Cheese, a mouthwatering combination of a classic grilled cheese sandwich and your favorite pizza toppings. Loaded with mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a garlic-butter crust, this dish is perfect for a cozy lunch or a quick, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

1. Unsalted Butter:
   • 1/2 cup, very soft. This is used for the garlic-butter crust.
2. Grated Parmesan Cheese:
   • 1 tablespoon, for added flavor in the butter mixture.
3. Garlic Powder:
   • 1 teaspoon, for a savory, garlic-forward flavor.
4. Dried Italian Seasoning:
   • 1/2 teaspoon, to bring in that classic pizza flavor.
5. White Bread:
   • 8 slices. Choose a hearty, soft bread for the best texture.
6. Mozzarella Cheese:
   • 12 slices, for melty cheese goodness.
7. Pepperoni:
   • 6 oz, or about 24 slices, for that pizza topping element.
8. Warm Pizza Sauce:
   • For dipping the sandwich.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic-Butter Mixture:

1. In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and well blended.

2. Assemble the Sandwich:

1. Coat the Bread:
   • Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Build the Sandwich:
   • Place a buttered slice of bread, butter side down, in a skillet over medium-low heat.
   • Layer with 1 slice of mozzarella, followed by 6 slices of pepperoni, another slice of mozzarella, another 6 slices of pepperoni, and a final slice of mozzarella.
   • Top with another buttered slice of bread, butter side up.

3. Cook the Sandwich:

1. Grill the Sandwich:
   • Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
   • Carefully flip the sandwich with a spatula and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is fully melted.
   • If the cheese isn’t melting fast enough, reduce the heat and cover the pan briefly.

4. Serve:

1. Cut and Serve:
   • Remove the sandwich from the skillet, cut in half, and serve with warm pizza sauce on the side for dipping.

Additional Notes:

• Flavor Boost:
  • Add fresh basil leaves along with the pepperoni for an authentic pizza taste.
  • For a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes inside the sandwich.
• Customizations:
  • Try using different cheeses, such as provolone or cheddar, for a new flavor profile.
  • Add other toppings like green peppers, onions, or mushrooms for a veggie twist.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~35g
• Protein: ~18g
• Fat: ~30g

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this with a side salad or crispy fries for a complete meal. It’s also great as an appetizer for pizza nights!

This Pizza Grilled Cheese is the perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods, offering the best of both worlds in every crispy, cheesy bite!