Grilled Cheese Pizza

by

Indulge in the delightful fusion of two beloved classics: grilled cheese and pizza! This Grilled Cheese Pizza recipe offers a mouthwatering combination of gooey cheese, zesty pizza sauce, and savory pepperoni, all sandwiched between slices of golden-brown bread. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a staple on your family’s menu.

Ingredients:

Garlic Butter:

  • 8 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 Tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Grilled Cheese:

  • 12 slices white bread
  • 6 Tablespoons pizza sauce
  • 36 pepperoni slices
  • 1 ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

1. Make Garlic Butter:

  • In a small microwave-safe bowl, add butter and melt in the microwave.
  • Stir in olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until well combined.

2. Prep Skillet:

  • Place a 10-inch skillet or pan on the stovetop and preheat it over medium-low heat while you prep the sandwiches.

3. Prep Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

  • Place 6 pieces of white bread on a cutting board. Brush one side with the garlic butter.
  • Flip the pieces of bread over and top each with 1 Tablespoon of pizza sauce. Use the back of a spoon to spread the sauce.
  • Add 6 slices of pepperoni to each piece of bread followed by ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to each.
  • Place another piece of bread on top of each of the sandwiches.

4. Cook Grilled Cheese:

  • Place a sandwich, garlic butter side down, in the preheated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Transfer the grilled cheese to a plate and cut in half.
  • Repeat with the remaining sandwiches, then serve and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips :

1. Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve Grilled Cheese Pizza hot off the skillet for the ultimate melty goodness.
  • Pair with a side salad or fresh vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
  • Cut into smaller portions for appetizers or party snacks.
  • Customize with additional toppings like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions for added flavor.

2. Storage Instructions:

  • If you have leftovers, allow the grilled cheese pizzas to cool completely before storing.
  • Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
  • Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet until warmed through for optimal taste and texture.

3. Freezing Tips:

  • Grilled Cheese Pizza can also be frozen for future enjoyment.
  • Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • Label with the date and freeze for up to 1-2 months.
  • To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the reheating instructions above.

4. Make-ahead Option:

  • Prepare the sandwiches up to the cooking step, then wrap them individually and refrigerate until ready to cook.
  • This allows for a quick and convenient meal option for busy days or weeknight dinners.

5. Garnishing Ideas:

  • Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley over the grilled cheese pizzas before serving for a burst of freshness.
  • Drizzle a little extra pizza sauce on the plate for dipping or alongside a dollop of marinara sauce for added flavor.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Grilled Cheese Pizza stays delicious and enjoyable, whether served immediately or saved for later indulgence.

Variations :

  1. Vegetarian Option:
    • Skip the pepperoni and experiment with a variety of vegetables such as sliced tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
  2. Meat Lover’s Twist:
    • Amp up the protein by adding cooked crumbled sausage, bacon bits, or diced ham along with or instead of the pepperoni. The combination of meats will add a hearty and satisfying element to your grilled cheese pizza.
  3. BBQ Chicken Style:
    • Swap out the pizza sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce and add shredded cooked chicken on top of the mozzarella cheese. Finish with a drizzle of ranch dressing or sprinkle of chopped green onions for a tangy and savory flavor profile.
  4. Pesto Paradise:
    • Replace the pizza sauce with pesto sauce for a fresh and herbaceous twist. Layer on slices of fresh tomato, basil leaves, and creamy slices of fresh mozzarella cheese. Grill as usual for a vibrant and flavorful grilled cheese pizza.
  5. Buffalo Chicken Kick:
    • Mix cooked shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles. Spread this mixture over the bread slices along with the mozzarella cheese. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping to balance out the heat.
  6. Caprese Inspired:
    • Channel the flavors of Italy by using sliced fresh tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and slices of fresh mozzarella cheese. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet and tangy finish.
  7. Breakfast Twist:
    • Enjoy grilled cheese pizza for breakfast by adding cooked bacon or sausage along with scrambled eggs between the bread slices. Serve with a side of maple syrup for dipping for a sweet and savory morning treat.
  8. Hawaiian Fusion:
    • Embrace the tropical flavors by topping the mozzarella cheese with slices of ham and pineapple chunks. The combination of sweet and savory ingredients will transport your taste buds to the islands.

These variations offer a creative spin on the classic Grilled Cheese Pizza recipe, allowing you to customize and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the endless possibilities!

FAQs:

  1. Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white bread for a healthier option?
    • Yes, you can substitute whole wheat bread for white bread in this recipe. It will add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber to your grilled cheese pizza.
  2. Can I use different types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
    • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for unique flavor combinations.
  3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    • To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the pizza sauce and pepperoni, are also gluten-free.
  4. Can I make Grilled Cheese Pizza in a sandwich maker or panini press?
    • Yes, you can use a sandwich maker or panini press to make Grilled Cheese Pizza. Simply assemble the sandwiches as instructed and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden brown and melty.
  5. Is it necessary to use garlic butter, or can I use regular butter?
    • While garlic butter adds extra flavor, you can certainly use regular butter if you prefer. You can also add minced garlic to regular butter for a similar taste.
  6. Can I make Grilled Cheese Pizza without a skillet?
    • If you don’t have a skillet, you can use a griddle, grill pan, or even a regular non-stick frying pan to make Grilled Cheese Pizza.
  7. Can I freeze the assembled sandwiches before cooking them?
    • Yes, you can freeze the assembled sandwiches before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking as usual.
  8. How can I prevent the cheese from oozing out of the sandwich while cooking?
    • To prevent the cheese from oozing out, make sure to evenly distribute the cheese and other toppings between the bread slices and press the edges of the sandwiches together firmly before cooking.
  9. What dipping sauces pair well with Grilled Cheese Pizza?
    • Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or balsamic glaze all make delicious dipping options for Grilled Cheese Pizza.
  10. Can I make Grilled Cheese Pizza ahead of time for a party or gathering?
    • Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature for a few minutes before cooking for even melting.

With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, Grilled Cheese Pizza offers a delicious twist on traditional comfort food. Whether served as a quick lunch, satisfying snack, or alongside a bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to satisfy cravings and become a family favorite. Try it today and savor the cheesy, flavorful goodness!