Why Make This Recipe
Pizza Margherita Grilled Cheese combines two beloved dishes: the classic old-world pizza and the comforting grilled cheese sandwich. It’s a quick and easy recipe that bursts with fresh flavors and cheesy goodness. This sandwich brings together gooey mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, making each bite feel like a little piece of Italy. Whether for a quick lunch or a fun dinner option, this recipe will satisfy both pizza and cheese lovers alike!
How to Make Pizza Margherita Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough or rustic Italian bread
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1.5 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium ripe tomato, thinly sliced
- 8 to 10 fresh basil leaves
- 4 tablespoons pizza sauce or good-quality marinara
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of dried oregano (optional)
Directions
- Spread one side of each slice of bread with softened butter.
- Flip the bread slices and spread 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on the unbuttered side of each slice.
- Arrange mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves on two of the bread slices, sauce side up.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried oregano if desired evenly over the cheese and vegetables.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, keeping the sauce side facing in and the buttered side facing out.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Remove sandwiches from the pan, allow to cool for 1 minute, then slice and serve immediately.
How to Serve Pizza Margherita Grilled Cheese
This sandwich is best enjoyed hot and fresh off the skillet. Serve it with a side of extra pizza sauce or marinara for dipping. A crisp green salad or a bowl of soup can complement the flavors well. You can also enjoy it with a refreshing drink, like iced tea or lemonade.
How to Store Pizza Margherita Grilled Cheese
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or use a toaster oven to revive the crispiness of the bread.
Tips to Make Pizza Margherita Grilled Cheese
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the basil and tomatoes.
- Make sure the cheese is melted completely before removing the sandwich from the skillet.
- Feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you like.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding other toppings such as pepperoni, arugula, or even avocado. Experiment with different types of bread for new flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like provolone or fontina for a different taste.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare it right before serving to maintain the crispy texture and melted cheese, but you can assemble the ingredients ahead and cook them when ready.
Is this a vegetarian recipe?
Yes, Pizza Margherita Grilled Cheese is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat. Enjoy it as a delicious meat-free meal!
Pizza Margherita Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful combination of pizza and grilled cheese featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough or rustic Italian bread
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1.5 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium ripe tomato, thinly sliced
- 8 to 10 fresh basil leaves
- 4 tablespoons pizza sauce or good-quality marinara
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of dried oregano (optional)
Instructions
- Spread one side of each slice of bread with softened butter.
- Flip the bread slices and spread 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on the unbuttered side of each slice.
- Arrange mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves on two of the bread slices, sauce side up.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried oregano if desired evenly over the cheese and vegetables.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, keeping the sauce side facing in and the buttered side facing out.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Remove sandwiches from the pan, allow to cool for 1 minute, then slice and serve immediately.
Notes
Serve hot with extra pizza sauce or marinara for dipping. Pairs well with a salad or soup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
