A rustic, wood-fired pizza dough folded and filled with creamy melted mozzarella, peppery arugula, and a hint of olive oil — a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for a casual Italian-inspired meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Grilled Pizza Sandwich offers a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden crust encases gooey melted mozzarella, complemented by the fresh, peppery bite of arugula. The addition of garlic-infused olive oil enhances the overall taste, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a quick yet sophisticated meal. Its versatility allows for various fillings, catering to different palates and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 ball fresh pizza dough
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1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup fresh arugula
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2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 garlic clove, minced
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Flour for dusting
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Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
Directions
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Preheat a pizza stone or heavy pan in the oven at 475°F (245°C).
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Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pizza dough into a rough rectangle.
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In a small bowl, mix olive oil with minced garlic.
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Brush one half of the dough with the garlic oil mixture.
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Top with mozzarella cheese and a generous handful of arugula.
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Fold the dough over to enclose the filling like a sandwich, pressing the edges gently.
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Transfer carefully onto the hot stone or pan.
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Bake for 8–10 minutes until the crust is golden and slightly charred.
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Remove from oven, slice into portions, and season with salt, pepper, and optional balsamic drizzle.
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Serve hot and enjoy the melty, fresh flavors.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 2
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Add Protein: Incorporate slices of prosciutto or salami for a meaty twist.
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Vegetarian Delight: Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
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Cheese Lovers: Mix in other cheeses such as goat cheese or fontina for added depth.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh basil or oregano before folding the dough.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for heat.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Wrap leftovers in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works well and saves time. Ensure it’s at room temperature before rolling out.
Is it possible to grill the sandwich instead of baking?
Absolutely. Preheat your grill to medium-high, place the sandwich on the grates, and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until the crust is golden and the cheese melts.
What other greens can I use besides arugula?
Spinach, kale, or mixed salad greens are excellent alternatives, each offering unique flavors and textures.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead and assemble just before baking or grilling.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking?
Ensure your work surface and hands are well-floured. Using parchment paper can also help during the transfer to the oven or grill.
What dipping sauces pair well with this sandwich?
Marinara sauce, pesto, or a balsamic reduction complement the flavors nicely.
Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pizza dough and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Substitute dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives and ensure the dough contains no animal products.
How can I make the crust extra crispy?
Brush the outside of the dough with olive oil before baking or grilling, and ensure your oven or grill is adequately preheated.
What type of mozzarella is best for this recipe?
Fresh mozzarella provides a creamy texture, but low-moisture mozzarella melts better and gives a gooier consistency.
Conclusion
The Grilled Pizza Sandwich with Mozzarella and Arugula is a versatile and delightful dish that combines the comfort of pizza with the convenience of a sandwich. Its customizable nature allows for endless variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re seeking a quick lunch or an impressive appetizer, this recipe delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Grilled Pizza Sandwich with Mozzarella and Arugula is a rustic, Italian-inspired creation, combining wood-fired pizza dough with creamy melted mozzarella, fresh peppery arugula, and a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a delicious twist on a classic sandwich — perfect for casual dinners, quick lunches, or savory snacks!
Ingredients
-
Preheat a pizza stone or heavy pan in the oven at 475°F (245°C).
-
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pizza dough into a rough rectangle.
-
In a small bowl, mix olive oil with minced garlic.
-
Brush one half of the dough with the garlic oil mixture.
-
Top with mozzarella cheese and a generous handful of arugula.
-
Fold the dough over to enclose the filling like a sandwich, pressing the edges gently.
-
Transfer carefully onto the hot stone or pan.
-
Bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is golden and slightly charred.
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Remove from oven, slice into portions, and season with salt, pepper, and optional balsamic drizzle.
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Serve hot and enjoy the melty, fresh flavors!
Instructions
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Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor.
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Add prosciutto or roasted vegetables inside for a heartier version.
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Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
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Ensure the dough edges are sealed well to prevent filling leakage.
Notes
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Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor.
-
Add prosciutto or roasted vegetables inside for a heartier version.
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Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
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Ensure the dough edges are sealed well to prevent filling leakage.
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