There is something universally comforting about biting into a gooey sandwich on a rainy afternoon. My childhood memories are filled with the scent of toasted bread and melting cheese wafting from the kitchen, signaling that a delicious lunch was just moments away. This garlic butter pizza grilled cheese combines those nostalgic feelings with the zesty flavors of my favorite Friday night dinner.

It represents the perfect marriage of two culinary worlds that I absolutely adore. You get the satisfying crunch of a buttery, garlic-infused crust that mimics a breadstick, followed immediately by the stretch of melted mozzarella.

While I sometimes crave sweet treats like homemade candied pecans when I want a snack, nothing beats a savory melt for a proper meal. This recipe was born out of a desire to use up leftover marinara sauce, but it quickly became a requested staple in my home.

The beauty lies in the specific combination of provolone and mozzarella, which provides the ultimate cheese pull. Adding savory beef turkey turkey turkey pepperoni transforms it from a simple snack into a hearty main course.

Every bite delivers a complex texture profile, from the crispy exterior to the soft, saucy center. It is a meal that feels indulgent yet comes together in a matter of minutes.

Why you’ll love this Garlic Butter Pizza Grilled Cheese

This recipe comes together in just fifteen minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners or quick lunches.
The garlic butter crust adds an incredible layer of flavor that standard buttered bread simply cannot match.
You get all the satisfaction of a turkey turkey pepperoni pizza without the hassle of making dough or waiting for the oven to preheat.
It is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the fillings with your favorite vegetable toppings or different cheese blends.
The combination of mozzarella and provolone creates a superior melt that is both creamy and stretchy.
This pizza grilled cheese is a hit with both children and adults, bridging the gap between sophisticated flavors and picky-eater preferences.

Ingredients

4 slices thick sourdough or artisan white bread
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
4 slices mozzarella cheese (or 1 cup shredded)
2 slices provolone cheese
8-10 slices beef turkey turkey turkey pepperoni
2 tablespoons marinara sauce, plus extra for dipping
Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Pizza grilled cheese makes every moment feel satisfying. Begin by preparing your aromatic spread in a small mixing bowl. Combine the softened unsalted butter with the garlic powder and dried oregano. Stir the mixture vigorously until the herbs and spices are evenly distributed throughout the butter.

Step 2

Take your slices of sourdough or artisan bread and lay them out on a clean surface or cutting board. Spread the garlic herb butter mixture generously on one side of each slice, ensuring you reach the edges. This coating is essential for creating that golden, crispy crust that defines the sandwich.

Step 3

Flip the bread slices over so the buttered side is facing down against the cutting board. On the unbuttered side of two slices, spread a thin, even layer of marinara sauce. Be careful not to use too much sauce, as this can make the bread soggy during the cooking process.

Step 4

Now it is time to build the flavor layers of your sandwich. Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the marinara sauce, which acts as a barrier to keep the bread crisp. Follow this with the beef turkey turkey turkey pepperoni slices, arranging them so you get a savory bite in every mouthful.

Step 5

If you are using fresh basil, add the leaves now for a burst of herbal freshness. Top the meat and herbs with the mozzarella cheese slices or shredded mozzarella. Place the remaining bread slices on top, ensuring the buttered side is facing outward to close the sandwiches.

Step 6

Heat a high-quality non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the assembled sandwiches gently into the pan. Cook them slowly for 3 to 4 minutes, watching closely until the bottom bread is a deep golden brown and feels crispy to the touch.

Step 7

Carefully flip the sandwiches using a wide spatula to keep the fillings intact. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the second side. You want the second side to match the golden color of the first and ensure the cheese is completely melted through.

Step 8

Once cooked to perfection, remove the sandwiches from the heat immediately. Transfer them to a cutting board and slice them diagonally for the best presentation. Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Variations, pairings, and serving ideas

Variations

You can easily customize this pizza grilled cheese to suit your specific taste preferences. For a spicy kick, try sprinkling red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce before spreading it on the bread. This adds a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the cheese perfectly.

If you prefer a vegetable-forward sandwich, sauté some bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions until they are soft. Add these veggies in place of, or alongside, the beef turkey turkey turkey pepperoni. Just ensure the vegetables are not too wet, as excess moisture can prevent the bread from crisping.

For a “white pizza” version, skip the marinara sauce inside the sandwich entirely. Instead, use a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with herbs or a garlic alfredo sauce. Dip this version in marinara sauce at the table to keep the contrast of flavors alive.

Another delicious twist is to swap the standard artisan bread for focaccia. Slice the focaccia horizontally and flip it inside out so the soft side crisps up in the pan. This adds an extra layer of Italian herb flavor to the overall experience.

Pairings

The most classic pairing for this dish is, without a doubt, a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. The acidity of the soup balances the buttery richness of the sandwich beautifully. Dipping the crispy crust into the velvety soup is a texture experience that defines comfort food.

For a lighter contrast, serve this sandwich alongside a crisp Caesar salad with plenty of crunchy croutons. The cold, fresh lettuce and tangy dressing cleanse the palate between heavy, cheesy bites. It turns a quick sandwich into a well-rounded bistro-style lunch.

If you are hosting a casual get-together, you might serve this alongside other finger foods. It pairs surprisingly well with dips and chips; for instance, try serving it near a bowl of corn black bean guacamole for a fun fusion of flavors. The zest from the lime in the dip complements the savory garlic butter.

Roasted vegetables are another excellent side dish option for this meal. Roasted broccoli or asparagus spears seasoned with lemon and parmesan provide a nutritious counterpoint. They add color to the plate and help break up the carb-heavy nature of the main dish.

Serving ideas

Presentation plays a huge role in how appetizing a grilled cheese sandwich looks. Always slice the sandwich diagonally, as this exposes the melted cheese layers and creates an inviting visual. You can slightly pull the halves apart on the plate to show off the stringy mozzarella.

Serve the extra marinara sauce in small ramekins on the side rather than pouring it over the top. This keeps the garlic butter crust crispy until the very last bite. Garnishing the sauce with a sprinkle of parmesan or a fresh basil leaf adds a professional touch.

For a party platter, you can cut the sandwiches into smaller “soldiers” or strips. This makes them easy to pick up and dip, turning a main course into a fantastic appetizer. Arrange them on a wooden board with the sauce in the center for communal snacking.

If you want to elevate the garlic butter crust even further, sprinkle a little grated parmesan cheese on the outside of the bread during the last minute of cooking. This creates a savory, salty cheese crust (frico) on the exterior. It adds a gourmet texture that guests will love.

Storage and make-ahead tips

Storage

While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Wrap the cooled sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. This helps maintain the moisture in the cheese and meat.

Avoid reheating this sandwich in the microwave, as the bread will become rubbery and tough. Instead, reheat it in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven. This method revives the crispiness of the crust while gently melting the cheese again.

Freezing is generally not recommended for fully assembled and cooked grilled cheese sandwiches. The texture of the dairy changes, and the bread often becomes soggy upon thawing. It is much better to freeze the individual ingredients, like the bread and beef turkey turkey turkey pepperoni, separately.

Make-ahead

You can prep the garlic herb butter well in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Having the butter ready to go speeds up the assembly process significantly. Just remember to let it soften at room temperature before spreading.

You can also assemble the sandwiches up to four hours before you plan to cook them. Spread the butter, layer the ingredients, and close the sandwiches, then place them on a baking sheet in the fridge. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the bread from drying out.

When you are ready to eat, simply transfer the cold sandwiches directly to the preheated pan. You may need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time to account for the chilled ingredients. This strategy is excellent for feeding a crowd without spending all your time in the kitchen.

Common mistakes when making Garlic Butter Pizza Grilled Cheese

Cooking the sandwich over heat that is too high is the most frequent error. This burns the garlic butter and bread before the cheese inside has a chance to fully melt.
Using too much marinara sauce inside the sandwich is a recipe for disaster. Excess liquid will soak into the bread rapidly, resulting in a soggy, messy sandwich that falls apart.
Overstuffing the sandwich with too many fillings can prevent the bread from making proper contact with the pan. This leads to uneven browning and a center that remains cold.
Forgetting to bring the cheese to room temperature can extend the cooking time unnecessarily. Cold cheese takes longer to melt, increasing the risk of burning the bread.

Final notes

Mastering this garlic butter pizza grilled cheese is all about patience with the heat. Resist the urge to crank up the stove, and let the gentle warmth create that perfect golden crunch. The result is a textural masterpiece that is well worth the few extra minutes.

Feel free to experiment with different types of artisan bread to find your favorite base. A hearty sourdough provides a wonderful tang that cuts through the rich cheese, while a soft brioche offers a more decadent experience. The versatility of this recipe is part of its charm.

I hope this recipe brings a bit of comfort and joy to your kitchen table. It is a simple pleasure that reminds us that great food does not have to be complicated. Grab your skillet and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Ultimate Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Why you’ll love this Garlic Butter Pizza Grilled Cheese

Ingredients

Directions

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Variations, pairings, and serving ideas

Variations

Pairings

Serving ideas

Storage and make-ahead tips

Storage

Make-ahead

Common mistakes when making Garlic Butter Pizza Grilled Cheese

Final notes

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Notes

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