Cheesy Crispy Pizza Delight

This pizza grilled cheese takes the two most beloved comfort foods and combines them into one irresistible sandwich. The crispy garlic-parmesan bread pairs perfectly with gooey mozzarella and savory pepperoni, creating a handheld pizza experience that's ready in minutes.

I created this recipe during a rainy afternoon when my kids were craving both pizza and grilled cheese. The compromise became our family's most requested sandwich, now making an appearance at least twice a month on our dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Provides the perfect base for our garlic spread while allowing you to control the saltiness
• Grated Parmesan: Adds a nutty flavor and authentic pizza taste
• Garlic powder: Infuses the butter with aromatic flavor without burning like fresh garlic might
• Italian seasoning: Brings classic pizza herb notes to every bite
• White bread: Creates the perfect canvas with its neutral flavor and excellent crisping ability
• Mozzarella cheese: Offers that quintessential pizza stretch when melted properly
• Pepperoni: Brings classic pizza flavor and a delightful textural contrast
• Pizza sauce: Serves as the perfect companion for dipping each bite

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the garlic butter:

Combine softened butter with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until all seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the butter. This flavored spread is what transforms ordinary bread into a garlic bread-like exterior.

Build your sandwich foundation:

Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each bread slice. Be sure to reach all the way to the edges for maximum flavor and browning potential.

Assemble with precision:

Place a bread slice butter-side-down in your cold skillet. Layer two slices of mozzarella, followed by several pepperoni slices arranged to cover the entire surface, then add one more slice of mozzarella. This cheese-meat-cheese layering prevents the pepperoni oil from making the bread soggy.

Create the perfect top:

Place another slice of bread on top with the butter side facing upward. The exterior butter sides will create that golden crust we all love.

Cook with patience:

Heat the skillet over medium-low heat and cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Flip carefully using a spatula and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. The slow cooking ensures the cheese melts completely while achieving the perfect crispy exterior.

Serve immediately:

Cut diagonally for the most satisfying cheese pull and serve alongside warm pizza sauce for dipping.

The garlic butter is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered through many test batches that allowing the butter to soften naturally at room temperature rather than microwaving creates a much more even spread and better flavor distribution. My daughter now requests extra garlic butter on her sandwich and calls it her "pizza bread special."

Perfect Pairings

Turn your pizza grilled cheese into a complete meal by serving it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette. The acidity and freshness balance the richness of the sandwich perfectly. For a more substantial meal, pair with tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combination that adults and children alike will appreciate.

Cheese Selection Tips

While pre-sliced mozzarella works perfectly fine, consider investing in a block of low-moisture mozzarella and slicing it yourself. Freshly sliced cheese melts more evenly and provides better flavor. If you want to elevate your sandwich further, try mixing in some provolone or fontina cheese along with the mozzarella for more complex flavor profiles.

Creative Variations

Transform this basic recipe by incorporating your favorite pizza toppings. Try adding thinly sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives between the cheese layers. For meat lovers, cooked Italian sausage or bacon bits make excellent additions. Vegetarians can skip the pepperoni and add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for equally delicious results.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can substitute white bread with sourdough, whole wheat, or any sturdy bread for extra texture and flavor.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Simply omit the pepperoni or swap it with vegetarian-friendly alternatives like plant-based pepperoni or vegetables.

→ What kind of mozzarella is best for this sandwich?

Low-moisture mozzarella is ideal as it melts perfectly and avoids making the sandwich too soggy.

→ Can I cook this in a panini press?

Yes, a panini press works great and ensures even cooking with a crispy finish on both sides.

→ What are good dipping sauces besides pizza sauce?

Marinara, ranch dressing, spicy garlic sauce, or even pesto are excellent dipping options.

→ How can I customize the fillings?

You can add sliced veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions, or try different deli meats or cheeses.