Description
If you’re craving the cheesy, saucy flavors of pizza but want the comforting crisp of a grilled cheese sandwich, this Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwiches recipe is the perfect match! It combines gooey melted cheese, zesty pizza sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings between golden, buttery bread. It’s a fun twist on two classic favorites—ideal for lunch, dinner, or a savory snack.
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Ingredients
For the Sandwiches:
8 slices of Italian or sourdough bread
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (adds a slight sharpness)
½ cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
¼ cup sliced black olives
¼ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
¼ cup green bell peppers, finely chopped
¼ cup cooked ground beef or turkey sausage crumbles
1 tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional for Dipping:
½ cup warm pizza sauce or marinara sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Have your toppings (olives, mushrooms, peppers, meat) ready and chopped.
Lay out all slices of bread on a clean surface.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread pizza sauce evenly on 4 slices of bread.
Top each sauced slice with a generous amount of the cheese mixture.
Add your favorite toppings over the cheese layer.
Sprinkle Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Place the remaining bread slices on top to form sandwiches.
Spread softened butter on the outside of each slice of bread.
Step 3: Grill the Sandwiches
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Place sandwiches butter-side down onto the skillet.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy, then flip carefully.
Cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, pressing down lightly with a spatula.
Reduce heat if needed to allow the cheese to melt fully without burning the bread.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Once both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted, remove from skillet.
Let rest for 1 minute, then slice diagonally for that perfect grilled cheese cut.
Serve with warm pizza sauce or marinara on the side for dipping.
Notes
Use Fresh Bread – A hearty bread like sourdough or Italian holds up well and adds flavor.
Don’t Skimp on Cheese – A generous cheesy center ensures gooey goodness in every bite.
Butter Evenly – Spread butter all the way to the edges for an evenly crispy crust.
Cook Low & Slow – Medium heat prevents burning and ensures the cheese fully melts.
Get Creative – Try different toppings like spinach, red onions, or even pineapple if you like a sweet-savory mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American