Description

This Pizza Panini Recipe brings together the best of both worlds—crispy, golden bread and all your favorite pizza flavors inside! Made with melty mozzarella, pepperoni, and rich pizza sauce, it’s a quick and delicious lunch or dinner option that tastes like pizza, but eats like a sandwich.

Ingredients

4 thick slices of hearty bread (or 1 ciabatta loaf, 12-14 oz)
1/2 cup pizza sauce (or marinara)
4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
3-4 oz pepperoni slices
Olive oil spray

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Instructions

Preheat Grill: Heat a panini press, George Foreman grill, or grill pan over medium heat.
Assemble Panini:
- Slice bread thickly (or slice and hollow out the ciabatta slightly).
- Spread pizza sauce evenly on the inside of each slice.
- Layer bottom half with mozzarella and pepperoni, then top with the other bread slice.
Oil & Grill:
- Lightly spray the outside of the bread with olive oil.
- Place sandwich in panini press or grill pan. If using a grill pan, weigh down with a heavy skillet.
- Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden and cheese is melted.
Serve: Let cool for 1–2 minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Notes

Add extras like olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a veggie-loaded version.
Use a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a zesty twist.
Great for using up leftover pizza toppings.