A creative twist on two classic comfort foods—grilled cheese and pizza! This Pizza Grilled Cheese combines gooey melted cheese, tangy marinara sauce, savory toppings, and crispy bread for a fun, flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even breakfast. Ready in under 15 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tangy & Cheesy : The marinara and melty cheese create irresistible flavor layers.
- Customizable : Add your favorite pizza toppings for variety.
- Quick & Easy : Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Kid-Friendly : A playful way to enjoy both pizza and grilled cheese in one bite!
Ingredients (Makes 4 Sandwiches)
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices hearty bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or Texas toast work well)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp butter , softened (or olive oil spray for healthier option)
Optional Toppings:
- Pepperoni slices
- Sliced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Black olives , sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Spinach , wilted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Bread
- Spread marinara sauce evenly onto one side of each slice of bread. Leave about ½ inch around the edges.
Step 2: Add Toppings
- On 4 slices of bread (marinara-side up), layer toppings of your choice:
- Mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni slices
- Bell peppers , mushrooms, or spinach (optional)
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Top with another slice of bread, marinara-side down . Press gently to seal.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
- Heat a skillet over medium heat . Spread butter (or use olive oil spray) on the outside of each sandwich.
- Cook sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side , until golden brown and cheese is bubbly. Adjust heat if browning too quickly.
Step 5: Serve Hot
- Let cool for 1 minute before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for heat.
- Serve with a side of extra marinara for dipping or paired with tomato soup.
Pro Tips for Success
- Bread Choice : Use thick-cut bread for structure or thin slices for a crispier texture.
- Cheese Melting : Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, but mixing in cheddar adds sharpness.
- Don’t Overload : Too many toppings can make the sandwich soggy—stick to light layers.
- Marinara Flavor : Warm the marinara slightly before spreading for easier application.
Customization Ideas
- Meat Lovers : Add cooked sausage crumbles or bacon bits.
- Veggie Boost : Include sautéed onions, zucchini, or roasted garlic.
- Spicy Twist : Stir diced jalapeños into the marinara or drizzle hot sauce over the finished sandwich.
- Breakfast Version : Fold in scrambled eggs or sun-dried tomatoes.
Nutrition (Per Sandwich)
- Calories : ~400
- Fat : 20g
- Carbs : 30g
- Protein : 20g
Why It’s a Winner
This Pizza Grilled Cheese brings together the best of two worlds—tangy marinara, gooey cheese, and crispy bread. It’s quick, customizable, and sure to satisfy anyone who loves pizza-inspired flavors.
Pro Secrets
- Double Butter : For extra crunch, spread butter on both sides of the sandwich before grilling.
- Freeze Ahead : Assemble sandwiches without cooking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Toast frozen for a quick meal!
- Broil Option : Place assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil for 2–3 minutes per side for a lighter version.
Final Touches
- Garnish : Drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
- Serve With : Sweet potato fries or a garden salad for balance.
Your New Favorite Comfort Food! This sandwich is pure indulgence—perfect for game days, family dinners, or sneaky midnight cravings.
Let us know how you tweak it—tag us in your photos!
Enjoy responsibly (and maybe share half)!