Delicious Pizza Grilled Cheese

This hearty Blackstone Pizza Grilled Cheese transforms two beloved classics into one irresistible sandwich. The crispy exterior gives way to molten cheese and savory pizza flavors, making it the ultimate comfort food mashup that's ready in just 15 minutes.

I first made these during a weekend cookout when we couldn't decide between pizza and grilled cheese. Now my family requests these sandwiches at least twice a month they're that good.

Ingredients

• Butter: Helps create that perfect golden crispy exterior that makes a grilled cheese irresistible
• Artisan Bread: Choose a hearty bread with good structure to hold all the fillings look for a rustic Italian or sourdough for best results
• Pizza Sauce: The key flavor component use a good quality sauce or even leftover homemade sauce for best results
• Pepperoni: Adds that classic pizza flavor and slight spice thin sliced works best for even cooking
• Mozzarella Cheese Slices: Fresh mozzarella can be too wet for this recipe stick with good quality sliced mozzarella for the perfect melt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Blackstone:

Turn your Blackstone grill to medium high heat and allow it to reach approximately 400°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior while allowing enough time for the cheese to fully melt without burning the bread. Give it at least 5 minutes to properly preheat.

Butter the Cooking Surface:

Add the butter directly to the hot griddle surface and immediately spread it around with your spatula. This creates an even cooking surface and ensures no part of your bread will stick. Make sure to cover an area large enough for all four sandwiches.

Assemble the Base Layer:

Place four bread slices on the buttered surface and immediately spread each with one tablespoon of pizza sauce. Keep the sauce in the center leaving a small border around the edges to prevent it from spilling out during cooking.

Add the First Fillings:

Layer six pepperoni slices on each bread slice arranging them to cover the sauce completely. Then place one slice of mozzarella on top of the pepperoni making sure it covers all the toppings.

Complete the Fillings:

Add another layer of pepperoni and another slice of cheese to each sandwich. This double layer approach ensures you get the full pizza flavor experience in every bite.

Finish Assembly:

Spread the remaining tablespoon of pizza sauce on the inside of each top slice of bread. Place these sauce side down onto the assembled sandwiches to complete them.

Cook to Perfection:

Cook the sandwiches undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Use a wide spatula to carefully flip each sandwich then cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the second side is equally browned and the cheese is completely melted.

Serve Immediately:

Remove the sandwiches from the grill and let them rest for just 30 seconds before slicing. This brief rest allows the cheese to set slightly making for a cleaner first bite.

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The pepperoni is really the star ingredient for me. Its slightly spicy flavor infuses into the melted cheese creating that unmistakable pizza flavor profile. My daughter actually started requesting these instead of regular pizza for our Friday night family dinners which says everything about how delicious they are.

Making Ahead and Storage

These grilled cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle when the bread is perfectly crispy and the cheese is molten. However if you have leftovers you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat place them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes or use an air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes. This helps restore some of the crispiness that would be lost in a microwave.

Creative Variations

While the classic pepperoni version is delicious this recipe is incredibly versatile. Try using different pizza toppings like cooked Italian sausage mushrooms green peppers or black olives. For a vegetarian option omit the pepperoni and add sautéed vegetables instead. You can also experiment with different cheeses a blend of mozzarella and provolone offers great flavor or try adding a sprinkle of parmesan between layers for extra depth. For a breakfast version add a thin layer of scrambled eggs between the cheese layers.

Serving Suggestions

These pizza grilled cheese sandwiches pair perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more substantial meal serve alongside tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combination. During summer months a side of fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the savory sandwich. If serving at a casual gathering cut into quarters and arrange on a platter with extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Blackstone Tips for Perfect Results

The Blackstone griddle gives these sandwiches their perfect crispy exterior but requires a few specific techniques. Always preheat your griddle properly before adding food. The temperature should be hot enough to sizzle when you add the butter but not so hot that it immediately burns. Use a broad metal spatula for flipping and press down gently on the sandwiches with the spatula after flipping to ensure even contact with the cooking surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, feel free to use any bread you prefer, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or classic white bread.

→ What other cheeses work well?

Cheddar, provolone, or gouda are great options to use as substitutes for mozzarella in this dish.

→ Can I make it without a grill?

Absolutely! You can prepare this sandwich in a skillet over medium heat on your stovetop.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for the best texture.

→ What additional toppings can I include?

You can add sliced olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture.