Cheesy Pizza Sandwich Melt: The Ultimate Comfort Food Fusion
Picture this: the crispy crunch of perfectly toasted bread, the gooey stretch of melted cheese, and the savory kick of your favorite pizza toppings – all in one handheld package. That’s the magic of a Cheesy Pizza Sandwich, the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s taking the culinary world by storm.
In this article, we’re serving up 10 mouthwatering pizza grilled cheese recipes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re a die-hard pepperoni fan, a veggie lover, or an adventurous foodie looking for the next big thing, we’ve got something for everyone. Get ready to impress your family, wow your friends, and maybe even surprise yourself with your newfound culinary skills. These Cheesy Pizza Sandwiches are perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners.
Jump to Recipe
Before we explore our mouthwatering pizza grilled cheese recipes, let’s address some common questions about these delicious Cheesy Pizza Sandwiches:
Q: What makes pizza grilled cheese different from regular grilled cheese? A: Pizza grilled cheese combines the best of both worlds – the comforting, melty goodness of a classic grilled cheese with the bold flavors and toppings of your favorite pizza. It’s like having a portable pizza in sandwich form!
Q: Do I need special equipment to make these recipes? A: Nope! Most of these recipes can be made with just a skillet or griddle. However, some variations might benefit from using a panini press or grill pan for those perfect grill marks.
Q: Can I make these recipes healthier? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use whole grain bread, low-fat cheese, or load up on veggie toppings to boost the nutritional value. You can also use cooking spray instead of butter for a lighter option.
Now, let’s get to the main event – our 10 irresistible pizza grilled cheese recipes!
- Classic Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese
This Cheesy Pizza Sandwich takes the beloved pepperoni pizza and transforms it into a handheld delight.
Key ingredients:
- Sourdough bread
- Mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni slices
- Marinara sauce
Pro tip: For extra crispiness, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on the outside of the bread before grilling.
Let’s continue our pizza grilled cheese journey with a fresh Italian-inspired option.
- Margherita Madness Grilled Cheese
Transport your taste buds to Italy with this fresh and simple Margherita-inspired grilled cheese.
Key ingredients:
- Italian bread
- Fresh mozzarella
- Sliced tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves
Pro tip: Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze on top for an extra flavor kick.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza Grilled Cheese
This sandwich combines the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken pizza with the comfort of grilled cheese.
Key ingredients:
- Texas toast
- Shredded chicken
- BBQ sauce
- Red onion
- Cheddar and mozzarella cheese blend
Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Veggie Supreme Pizza Grilled Cheese
Calling all vegetarians and veggie lovers! This loaded sandwich is packed with flavor and nutrients.
Key ingredients:
- Whole grain bread
- Assorted sautéed veggies (bell peppers, mushrooms, onions)
- Olives
- Marinara sauce
- Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
Pro tip: Roast your veggies beforehand for deeper flavor and less moisture in your sandwich.
These Cheesy Pizza Sandwiches offer endless possibilities for customization. Let’s explore more exciting flavors!
- Hawaiian Pizza Grilled Cheese
Bring the tropics to your kitchen with this sweet and savory Hawaiian-inspired sandwich.
Key ingredients:
- Hawaiian sweet bread
- Canadian bacon or ham
- Pineapple chunks
- Mozzarella cheese
Pro tip: Grill the pineapple chunks before adding them to your sandwich for a caramelized sweetness.
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza Grilled Cheese
Spice lovers, this one’s for you! This buffalo chicken pizza grilled cheese packs a flavorful punch.
Key ingredients:
- Brioche bread
- Shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Mozzarella cheese
- Thinly sliced celery
Pro tip: Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
- Pesto Chicken Pizza Grilled Cheese
This gourmet-inspired sandwich combines the fresh flavors of pesto with tender chicken and melty cheese.
Key ingredients:
- Ciabatta bread
- Pesto sauce
- Shredded chicken
- Sliced tomatoes
- Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
Pro tip: Make your own pesto for an extra fresh flavor boost.
- Four Cheese Pizza Grilled Cheese
Cheese lovers, unite! This indulgent four-cheese version is pure comfort food heaven.
Key ingredients:
- Thick-cut Italian bread
- Mozzarella, Parmesan, Gorgonzola, and Provolone cheese
- Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)
Pro tip: Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your perfect blend.
- Breakfast Pizza Grilled Cheese
Who says you can’t have pizza for breakfast? This morning-inspired sandwich is the perfect way to start your day.
Key ingredients:
- English muffin bread
- Scrambled eggs
- Bacon crumbles
- Cheddar cheese
- Diced bell peppers and onions
Pro tip: Add a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy morning kick.
Who says pizza grilled cheese can’t be sweet? Our final Cheesy Pizza Sandwich recipe proves otherwise.
- Dessert Pizza Grilled Cheese
Yes, you read that right! End your meal on a sweet note with this decadent dessert pizza grilled cheese.
Key ingredients:
- Cinnamon raisin bread
- Cream cheese
- Nutella
- Mixed berries
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Pro tip: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Pizza Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, very soft
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 8 slices white bread
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese
- 6 ounces pepperoni
- Warm pizza sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the flavorful butter spread. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soft butter, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Take each slice of white bread and generously spread the butter mixture on one side of each slice. Ensure that the butter is evenly distributed.
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place one slice of bread butter side down in the skillet. Layer with a slice of mozzarella cheese, followed by 6 slices of pepperoni, another slice of mozzarella cheese, 6 more pepperoni slices, and finally, another slice of mozzarella cheese.
- Top the layers with another slice of bread, butter side facing up. Allow the sandwich to cook until the bottom is golden brown, which typically takes around 3-5 minutes.
- Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula and continue cooking until the other side turns golden brown, and the cheese is thoroughly melted.
- Once cooked to perfection, remove the Pizza Grilled Cheese from the skillet and serve immediately. For an authentic pizza experience, pair it with warm pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
- If you have any leftover Pizza Grilled Cheese, allow it to cool completely before storing it.
- Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- When ready to enjoy again, reheat the sandwiches in a toaster oven or skillet until heated through, ensuring the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Veggie Lover’s Delight: Swap out the pepperoni for your favorite vegetables, such as sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or olives. Add a layer of marinara sauce between the cheese and veggies for extra flavor.
- BBQ Chicken Twist: Replace the pepperoni with shredded cooked chicken tossed in your favorite barbecue sauce. Top with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a smoky, tangy twist.
- Hawaiian Paradise: Layer sliced ham and pineapple rings between the mozzarella cheese for a sweet and savory combination reminiscent of a classic Hawaiian pizza.
- Caprese Inspired: Elevate the flavors with fresh tomato slices, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Use fresh mozzarella cheese instead of the sliced variety for a gourmet touch.
- Breakfast Edition: Transform the Pizza Grilled Cheese into a morning treat by adding cooked bacon or sausage patties, a fried egg, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Serve with maple syrup for dipping for a sweet and savory breakfast experience.
- Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by adding sliced olives, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano before grilling for a taste of the Mediterranean coast.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers to the sandwich along with pepper jack cheese. Serve with a side of hot sauce for an extra fiery kick.
- Philly Cheesesteak Fusion: Fill the sandwich with thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, and top with provolone cheese. Serve with a side of creamy cheese sauce for dipping, reminiscent of a classic Philly cheesesteak.