Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese
The Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese is a comforting fusion of two classic favorites—pizza and grilled cheese—featuring crispy sandwich bread layered with zesty marinara sauce, melty mozzarella cheese, and spicy pepperoni slices. This quick and easy recipe offers a gooey, savory, and slightly spicy sandwich perfect for any occasion, customizable for dietary preferences, and ready in under 20 minutes.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Skillet Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free bread)
Main Ingredients
- 2 slices sturdy sandwich bread (sourdough, Italian, or thick white bread recommended)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (fresh torn mozzarella preferred)
- 10–12 pepperoni slices
- 2 tablespoons marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)
Optional Variations
- Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
- Additional cheese varieties: cheddar, provolone, or parmesan
- Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach (for added veggies)
- Gluten-free bread
- Plant-based pepperoni, vegan cheese, and dairy-free butter (for vegan version)
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather your bread slices, pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, and marinara sauce. Butter one side of each bread slice to ensure a perfectly crisp, golden exterior during grilling.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On the non-buttered side of one bread slice, spread a generous layer of marinara sauce. Layer the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then add pepperoni slices on top. Place the second slice of bread on top with the buttered side facing out.
- Grill the Sandwich: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula to promote even grilling and browning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwich from the skillet once both sides are toasted and the cheese is melted. Let it cool briefly, then slice in half and serve warm for the best gooey and savory experience.
Notes
- Grill on medium-low heat to prevent burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- Use fresh torn mozzarella for superior melt and taste compared to pre-shredded.
- Avoid adding too much sauce or cheese to prevent sogginess and spilling.
- Use gentle pressure when pressing the sandwich to create an even crust without crushing it.
- Cover the skillet briefly with a lid to trap heat and help the cheese melt faster.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: pepperoni, pizza grilled cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, comfort food, easy recipe, quick meal, cheesy sandwich