Pizza Grilled Cheese 🍕🧀

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup pizza sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup mini pepperoni slices (or other toppings like olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
  • 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the bread: Spread butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
  2. Assemble the sandwich: On the non-buttered side of one slice of bread, spread a generous layer of pizza sauce. Sprinkle a little garlic powder and oregano for extra flavor. Top with a heaping portion of shredded mozzarella cheese and add your desired toppings (mini pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, etc.).
  3. Close the sandwich: Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out.
  4. Cook the sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted inside.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Remove from the skillet and slice in half. Serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping, if desired.

Tips:

  • Bread options: Try using a hearty bread like ciabatta or even garlic bread for a more flavorful crust.
  • Topping ideas: Add a few fresh basil leaves after cooking for a “margherita” style grilled cheese, or load it up with your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions.
  • For a crispier sandwich: Use a bit of olive oil instead of butter for a golden, crispy texture.
  • Make it spicy: Add a few slices of jalapeño peppers inside for an extra spicy grilled cheese!

Nutrition (per serving, serves 1):

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg