This Ultra Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese is like a warm hug for your stomach! It brings together melty cheese, crispy pepperoni, and buttery bread for a tasty treat.
If you’re like me, you can’t resist that cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, and I love dipping it in marinara sauce for extra yum! 🍕❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Italian or sourdough is a great choice for this grilled cheese, bringing a crusty texture and rich flavor. If you want something lighter, try whole wheat or even gluten-free bread.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that classic stretchy cheese effect. You can swap it with provolone for a sharper taste or use a vegan cheese alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
Pepperoni: While traditional pepperoni adds that nice flavor, turkey or plant-based pepperoni works well too. If you prefer no meat, you can replace it with extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Marinara Sauce: The sauce adds moisture and flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade, and for a different twist, try pesto or a spicy marinara if you like some heat!
How Can I Get Perfectly Crispy Grilled Cheese?
Getting that golden, crispy outside while making sure the cheese inside melts perfectly can be tricky. Here are my tips:
- Make sure your skillet is at medium heat. Too hot will burn the bread before the cheese melts.
- Use softened butter instead of cold butter for easy spreading. This helps achieve an even golden crust.
- Cook the sandwiches low and slow. Flipping them carefully allows even cooking on both sides without burning.
- If you’re a fan of extra crispy, add a sprinkle of garlic powder and Italian seasoning in the last minute of cooking for aroma and taste.
how to make ultra cheesy pepperoni pizza grilled cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sandwich:
- 4 slices of bread (Italian or sourdough works well)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Pinch of garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack! Get ready to enjoy some cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Skillet:
Start by preheating a skillet or griddle over medium heat. This is important for getting a crispy sandwich without burning it!
2. Butter the Bread:
Take the softened butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a nice golden crust when cooking.
3. Layer Your Ingredients:
Take two slices of bread and place them on a clean surface with the unbuttered side facing up. Start by layering half of the mozzarella cheese on each slice. Then, add the pepperoni slices, drizzle a little marinara sauce on top, and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Now, grab the other two slices of bread and place them on top of the cheese and pepperoni, buttered side facing out. Press down gently to help everything stick together.
5. Cook the Sandwiches:
Place the sandwiches on your preheated skillet. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the sandwiches and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is also golden brown and crispy. This is where your patience pays off with that perfect crunch!
7. Add Extra Flavor:
If you’re using Italian seasoning and garlic powder, sprinkle them on top of the sandwiches during the last minute of cooking. This adds a lovely flavor that complements the cheese and pepperoni!
8. Slice and Serve:
Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Then, slice them in half to reveal the gooey cheese and pepperoni filling. The smell will be irresistible!
9. Enjoy:
Serve your grilled cheese warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for this grilled cheese, you can mix in other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just ensure you’re using cheeses that melt well to maintain that gooey texture!
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute marinara with any pasta sauce you have on hand, like a chunky tomato sauce or a white sauce. For a unique twist, a barbecue sauce or pesto could also give your sandwich a delicious flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or use a skillet on low heat to maintain crispiness.
Can I Make This Sandwich Without Pepperoni?
Yes! Feel free to skip the pepperoni for a vegetarian option or replace it with other ingredients like sautéed veggies (peppers, mushrooms, or spinach) or even cooked bacon for extra flavor. Just adjust the cheese accordingly to balance out the flavors!
