Pizza Grilled Cheese Melt

# What You'll Need:

01 - 4 slices Italian bread or sourdough

02 - 4 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded

03 - 12–16 slices pepperoni

04 - 1/4 cup marinara sauce, plus extra for dipping

05 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

01 - Lay out the bread slices and spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice.

02 - Place 2 slices bread butter side down. Spread 1–2 tablespoons marinara sauce on the unbuttered sides.

03 - Layer mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then cover with pepperoni slices.

04 - Place remaining bread slices on top, butter side up, forming two sandwiches.

05 - Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat until hot.

06 - Place sandwiches in skillet and cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese melts.

07 - Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute, then slice diagonally.

08 - Serve hot with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

01 -

It's ready in 20 minutes flat, which means you can satisfy a pizza craving without calling for delivery.
The combination of melted mozzarella and crispy pepperoni against buttery toasted bread is legitimately addictive.
You probably already have most of these ingredients hiding in your fridge right now.

02 -

Don't skip patting the mozzarella dry if you're using fresh cheese—excess moisture will make your sandwich soggy and prevent that beautiful golden crust.
Medium heat is your friend here; I learned the hard way that high heat creates a burnt exterior while the cheese inside stays cold and disappointed.

03 -

Slice your pepperoni a little thicker if you can—thin pepperoni gets papery and hard, while slightly thicker slices stay tender and flavorful under heat.
Make a double batch and wrap the extras in foil; they reheat beautifully in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes and taste almost as good as fresh.