The ULTIMATE Pizza Sandwich

Ingredients

• 8 slices White Bread Slices (standard sandwich bread, soft)
• 30 g Pepperoni Slices (regular pork pepperoni, sliced)
• 6 leaves Fresh Basil Leaves (washed, stems removed)
• 50 g Cream Cheese (softened at room temperature)
• 100 g Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (low‑moisture, shredded)
• 60 g Marinara Pizza Sauce (store‑bought, no added sugar)
• 2 tablespoons Butter (softened, for buttering bread sides)
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano (ground)
• 1/4 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes (optional heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon Pizza Seasoning (sprinkled on finished sandwich)

Instructions

1. Prepare Basil

   Stack the basil leaves, roll them tightly like a cigar, then slice thinly with a sharp knife to create fine basil strands.

   Time: PT2M

2. Crisp the Pepperoni

   Heat the non‑stick skillet over low heat, add the pepperoni slices (no oil) and cook until the edges are crisp and the fat has rendered, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil, then chop into bite‑size pieces.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: low heat

3. Make the Cream Cheese Mix

   In a mixing bowl combine the softened cream cheese, dried oregano and red chili flakes. Stir until smooth and evenly seasoned.

   Time: PT2M

4. Combine Filling

   Add shredded mozzarella, the crispy pepperoni pieces, and the chopped basil to the seasoned cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated – this is the pizza‑style filling.

   Time: PT3M

5. Assemble Regular Pizza Grilled Cheese

   Lay two slices of bread on a clean surface. Spread marinara sauce evenly from edge to edge on each slice (avoid soaking). Spoon the cheese‑pepperoni‑basil filling onto one slice, spreading to the edges, then top with the second slice, sauce side down.

   Time: PT5M

6. Grill the Regular Sandwich

   Wipe the skillet clean, return to low heat, and place the assembled sandwich butter‑side down. Cook 2‑3 minutes until the bread is golden and crisp, then butter the top side, cover with a lid, and flip. Cook the other side another 2‑3 minutes until both sides are crispy and the cheese is melted.

   Time: PT6M

   Temperature: low heat

7. Slice and Serve Regular Sandwich

   Remove from pan, let rest 30 seconds, then cut diagonally into two triangles. Sprinkle a pinch of pizza seasoning if desired.

   Time: PT1M

8. Assemble Inside‑Out Pizza Grilled Cheese

   Take two fresh bread slices, spread marinara sauce edge‑to‑edge on each. Add the same filling on one slice, then place the second slice on top, sauce side down. Butter the top side of the sandwich only.

   Time: PT4M

9. Grill Inside‑Out Sandwich

   Place the buttered side down in the skillet over low heat, cover, and cook until the buttered side is golden (2‑3 minutes). Flip, butter the other side, and continue cooking until both sides are toasted.

   Time: PT6M

   Temperature: low heat

10. Finish with Sauce, Cheese & Pepperoni

    Transfer the toasted sandwich to a plate. Spread a thin layer of marinara on the non‑buttered side, sprinkle shredded mozzarella, and add a few extra pepperoni pieces. Use a kitchen torch or broiler to melt and lightly brown the top (about 2 minutes). Sprinkle with pizza seasoning and serve hot.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: broiler or torch

Nutrition Facts

Calories

620

Protein

25g

Carbohydrates

45g

Fat

35g

Fiber

2g