There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about a grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey cheese, the crispy bread, the simplicity of it all—it’s the ultimate comfort food. But what if we took that classic and gave it an Italian twist? Enter the Garlic Parmesan Pizza Grilled Cheese—a delightful mash-up that combines the cheesy goodness of a grilled cheese with the bold, savory flavors of pizza. This dish is perfect for those days when you want the comfort of a grilled cheese but with a little extra flair. It’s quick to make, utterly satisfying, and just the thing to elevate your lunch or dinner game.
Imagine biting into a sandwich where each crunchy, golden slice of sourdough gives way to a melty, mozzarella-filled center, infused with the rich flavors of garlic, oregano, and basil. Add in a generous layer of pizza sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor. Ready to try it out? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create two servings of this delicious Garlic Parmesan Pizza Grilled Cheese:
- 4 slices of sourdough bread: The foundation of your sandwich, providing a hearty, crunchy base.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty star of the show.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce: Brings that classic pizza taste into the mix.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: For that perfectly golden, crispy exterior.
- 2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the bread with robust garlic flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that adds depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Complements the oregano with a sweet, peppery note.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a bit of heat, if you like a spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Garlic Parmesan Pizza Grilled Cheese
Ready to create this flavor-packed sandwich? Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
- Mix the butter and herbs: In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of softened butter with 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Stir until the mixture is well combined and set it aside. This will be your secret weapon for creating a deliciously crispy, flavorful crust.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread the pizza sauce: Take two slices of sourdough bread and spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on one side of each slice. This is where the pizza magic begins.
- Add the cheeses: On top of the pizza sauce, evenly distribute 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan on each slice. These cheeses will melt together to create a rich, gooey center.
- Close the sandwiches: Place the remaining slices of sourdough bread on top of the cheese-covered slices to form two sandwiches.
Step 3: Prepare for Cooking
- Butter the bread: Generously spread the garlic herb butter on the outside of each sandwich, making sure to coat both the top and bottom slices. This will ensure that your sandwich gets golden brown and crispy when it cooks.
Step 4: Cook the Sandwiches
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. You want it hot enough to melt the cheese inside without burning the bread.
- Cook the sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
- Add some heat (optional): If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese before you close the sandwich. This will add a subtle kick to each bite.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Cut and serve: Once the sandwiches are perfectly crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet. Let them cool for a minute or two, then cut each sandwich in half for easy eating.
- Pair with your favorite side: Serve your Garlic Parmesan Pizza Grilled Cheese with a side salad, tomato soup, or whatever tickles your fancy. Then, dig in and enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!
Variations & Tips: Make It Your Own
This Garlic Parmesan Pizza Grilled Cheese is delicious as-is, but don’t be afraid to customize it to your taste! Here are some ideas:
Add Some Extra Ingredients
- Pepperoni: For a more authentic pizza flavor, add a few slices of pepperoni inside the sandwich before cooking. It’s like a pizza pocket in grilled cheese form!
- Jalapeños: If you’re a fan of spice, add some diced jalapeños to the cheese layer. The heat will balance beautifully with the creamy cheese.
Switch Up the Bread
- Whole Grain or Gluten-Free: For a healthier twist, use whole grain bread or a gluten-free alternative. The flavors will still shine through, and you’ll have a sandwich that suits your dietary preferences.
Experiment with Cheeses
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in some other cheeses like fontina, gouda, or even a bit of provolone for a more complex flavor profile. The combination of different cheeses can create a deliciously gooey center.
- Parmesan Crust: For an extra cheesy crust, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on the outside of the buttered bread before cooking. It adds a crunchy, cheesy layer that’s hard to resist.
Add Fresh Toppings
- Fresh Basil: A few fresh basil leaves added just before serving can brighten up the flavors and add a touch of sophistication.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top before serving for a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich cheese.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Grilled Cheese
This sandwich is incredibly satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make your meal truly memorable:
- Caesar Salad: The crisp, refreshing crunch of a Caesar salad, complete with crunchy croutons and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy sandwich.
- Tomato Soup: A classic pairing, tomato soup complements the flavors of the grilled cheese and adds a comforting, warm element to your meal.
- Garlic Fries: If you’re feeling indulgent, oven-baked garlic fries can elevate your meal into a full-on feast. They’re crispy, garlicky, and oh-so-satisfying.
Final Thoughts
The Garlic Parmesan Pizza Grilled Cheese is a fun, flavorful twist on a classic comfort food that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its crispy, golden crust and gooey, cheesy center, this sandwich is the perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a special treat, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a sandwich that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Happy cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Pizza Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of softened butter, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Take 2 slices of sourdough bread and spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on one side of each slice. Evenly distribute 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan over the pizza sauce. Top each slice with the remaining bread slices to form two sandwiches.
- Butter the Bread:
- Spread the garlic herb butter generously on the outside of each sandwich, ensuring both the top and bottom slices are coated.
- Cook the Sandwiches:
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Some Heat (Optional):
- If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese layer before closing the sandwich.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked to perfection, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute or two. Cut each sandwich in half and serve with your favorite side, like tomato soup or a fresh salad.