RecipeWW DietWW RecipesZero Point

MOZZARELLA PIZZA GRILLED CHEESE

Updated on 4 min read

Crispy artisan bread stuffed with melted mozzarella, marinara, and basil — like a personal pizza in sandwich form.

Servings: 2 sandwiches
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Dietary Notes: Vegetarian

Ingredients (Checklist Style — No Measurements Here)

  • Artisan or sourdough bread
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Marinara or pizza sauce
  • Butter
  • Fresh basil
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
  2. Spread marinara on the unbuttered side.
  3. Layer mozzarella slices on top.
  4. Add basil leaves and Italian seasoning.
  5. Close the sandwiches and cook in a skillet until golden.
  6. Top with extra mozzarella and broil until bubbly.
  7. Serve hot.

Additional Notes

Use low-moisture mozzarella for the best melt and minimal sogginess. Thick bread holds up to the sauce without becoming soft.

Introduction

This blog uses a recipe-first format so you get every detail upfront — no scrolling required. Below the card, you’ll find an expanded walkthrough, ingredient breakdowns, variations, and storage tips for anyone who wants them.

Hero Image

(Your uploaded grilled cheese photo)

Brief Intro

This Mozzarella Pizza Grilled Cheese is everything you love about a gooey grilled cheese combined with classic pizza flavors. I created this recipe one night when I wanted pizza but had no dough — the result was so good it became a weekly staple. Crispy edges, molten cheese, herby tomato sauce, and a toasted top layer that gives the sandwich a near-lasagna vibe.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Preparing the Ingredients

Step 1: Slice thick pieces of bread. Butter one side evenly.
Tip: Spread edge to edge so the bread browns evenly.

Step 2: On the unbuttered side, spread a thin layer of marinara.
Tip: Too much sauce makes the sandwich slide; use just enough to coat.

Building the Sandwich

Step 3: Add 3–4 slices mozzarella per sandwich (or more).
Step 4: Add basil leaves and a sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing outward.

Cooking

Step 6: Cook in a skillet over medium heat until the bottom is golden. Flip and continue until cheese begins to melt.
Tip: Lower heat produces better melt without burning the bread.

The Signature Broiled Top

Step 7: Transfer sandwiches to a baking sheet. Top each with extra mozzarella.
Step 8: Broil on high for 1–2 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.
Tip: Watch closely — broilers brown fast.

Ingredient Details and Substitutions

Bread

Thick sourdough or Italian loaf works best.
Alternatives: French bread, Texas toast, brioche (for a softer version).

Cheese

Low-moisture mozzarella melts beautifully.
Substitutes: Provolone, fontina, or a mix with cheddar for sharper flavor.

Sauce

Use marinara or pizza sauce.
Homemade option: Tomato paste + olive oil + garlic powder + oregano.

Butter

Helps achieve a golden crust.
Alternative: Garlic-herb butter for more flavor.

Add-Ins

  • Pepperoni slices
  • Spinach
  • Roasted red peppers
  • Caramelized onions

Equipment Alternatives

No skillet? Use a griddle or nonstick pan.
No broiler? Melt cheese on top with a kitchen torch or skip the topping.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Flavor Variations

  • Pepperoni Grilled Cheese: Add 6–8 slices per sandwich.
  • Four-Cheese Version: Mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, and fontina.
  • Veggie Pizza Style: Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.
  • Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chili crisp.

Dietary Variations

  • Vegan: Use vegan mozzarella and plant-based butter.
  • Low-Carb: Make it with low-carb bread or serve the fillings as a cheese-bake.

Serving

Serve with:

  • A small bowl of warm marinara for dipping
  • Caesar salad
  • Tomato soup
  • Garlic roasted vegetables

Pairings

Works great with iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or a mild red wine.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storing

Wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat in an air fryer or skillet to restore crispness; avoid microwaving if possible.

Freezing

Freeze before broiling the top layer for best texture—wrap in foil, freeze up to 1 month.

Make-Ahead

Assemble sandwiches and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.

Quality Notes

Cheese will firm up after cooling; crispness returns well in a skillet.

Nutrition Facts (Approx. per sandwich)

Calories: 520
Carbs: 38 g
Protein: 25 g
Fat: 30 g
Sodium: 1050 mg
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use shredded mozzarella?
Yes, but pack it tightly so it doesn’t spill out.

Q: How do I prevent soggy sandwiches?
Use low-moisture cheese and go light on the sauce.

Q: Can I skip the broiling step?
Yes, but the bubbly top adds a signature pizza look and texture.

Q: Can I add meat?
Pepperoni, sausage crumbles, or salami work well.

Personal Story

This sandwich started as a late-night experiment — leftover mozzarella, basil, and a loaf of crusty bread turned into what tasted like a melty pizza pocket. After broiling cheese on top, the sandwich suddenly became a family favorite that feels indulgent but takes just minutes.

Call to Action

Try this Mozzarella Pizza Grilled Cheese and let me know how yours turns out. Share your results, ask questions, or send photos — I always enjoy seeing your versions.

You may also like...