Cheesy Pizza Grilled Cheese

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 1/4 cup pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup mini pepperoni slices or your choice of pizza toppings (optional)
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Assemble the Sandwich

  1. Prepare the bread: Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. These buttered sides will be the ones facing out when cooking the sandwich.
  2. Layer the pizza sauce: On the non-buttered side of one slice, spread a generous spoonful of pizza sauce.
  3. Add the cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pizza sauce, then add a little grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Add toppings: If you’re using pepperoni or other toppings, layer them over the cheese.
  5. Season it: Sprinkle garlic powder and dried oregano on top for that pizza flavor!

Step 2: Grill the Sandwich

  1. Preheat the skillet: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  2. Grill the sandwich: Place the sandwich in the skillet, buttered side down. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, pressing down lightly with a spatula. Once the bread is golden brown, flip the sandwich over and grill the other side until it’s golden and the cheese is melted (about another 2-3 minutes).

Step 3: Serve

  1. Garnish: If you like, garnish with some fresh basil or even a drizzle of extra pizza sauce for dipping!
  2. Slice and enjoy: Once it’s grilled to perfection, slice your sandwich in half and enjoy!

Tips:

  • Cheese Choices: For extra cheesy goodness, feel free to add a layer of provolone or cheddar cheese along with the mozzarella.
  • Add a twist: Try adding other pizza toppings like bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms to elevate the sandwich.
  • Crispier Crust: For an extra crispy crust, add a little bit of grated Parmesan directly to the buttered bread before grilling.
  • Dipping Sauce: Serve with extra pizza sauce or marinara for dipping!

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 Sandwich):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 18g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g