Cheesy, Saucy, and Perfect: Your New Favorite Pizza Grilled Cheese

Craving pizza but don’t want to splurge on calories or points? The Pizza Grilled Cheese is here to satisfy your pizza and comfort food cravings in one simple, delicious recipe. This dish brings together the melty cheese and bold flavors of pizza with the crispy, golden goodness of grilled cheese, all while being mindful of your wellness goals.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of low-calorie whole-grain bread
• 1/4 cup pizza sauce (low-sodium or homemade for fewer points)
• 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 6 turkey pepperoni slices (or vegetarian pepperoni for a plant-based option)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Cooking spray or 1 teaspoon light butter

Instructions

Prepare the Sandwiches

1. Lay out the 4 slices of bread. Spread 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on one side of each slice.
2. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over 2 of the slices.
3. Place 3 slices of turkey pepperoni on top of the cheese, and sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning for that classic pizza flavor.
4. Top with the remaining bread slices, sauce side down, to form sandwiches.

Cook the Sandwiches

1. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly coat the surface with cooking spray or spread a thin layer of light butter on the outside of the sandwiches.
2. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. Use a spatula to press down gently while cooking for even crispiness.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Slice each sandwich diagonally for that classic grilled cheese presentation.
2. Serve warm with a side of light marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Nutritional Information

(Per Sandwich)

• Calories: ~210
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• WW Points: ~6

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
2. Low in Points: By using low-calorie bread, part-skim mozzarella, and turkey pepperoni, you can enjoy this indulgent treat without breaking your points budget.
3. Kid-Friendly: The pizza flavors and crispy bread make this a hit with kids and adults alike.
4. Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like diced veggies, spinach, or mushrooms to make it your own.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Bread: Opt for low-calorie or high-fiber bread to keep the points low. Look for options that are around 40-50 calories per slice.
• Experiment with Toppings: Swap out turkey pepperoni for grilled chicken, fresh basil, or sautéed veggies for a more gourmet twist.
• Use a Panini Press: If you have a panini press, it’s a great tool for achieving perfectly crisp and evenly cooked sandwiches.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair your sandwich with a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Dip It: Serve with a small bowl of light marinara sauce or even Greek yogurt ranch for dipping.
• Pair It: A side of roasted veggies or a small cup of soup complements this sandwich beautifully.
• Make It a Meal: Add a small bowl of fruit or a light dessert like yogurt with berries to round out your meal.

This Piza Grilled Cheese is the perfect balance of indulgence and smart eating. With its crispy bread, gooey cheese, and bold pizza flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for busy days when you want something quick, comforting, and satisfying. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences. Give it a try—you won’t miss traditional pizza one bit!