White Pizza Grilled Cheese.

If you think grilled cheese can’t get any better, wait until you try this White Pizza Grilled Cheese. Imagine the ooey-gooey goodness of melted mozzarella, sharp provolone, and parmesan cheeses combined with a luscious mascarpone cheese spread infused with fresh herbs and garlic. This sandwich takes the classic grilled cheese to a whole new level, offering all the creamy, cheesy delight of a white pizza, but in the convenience of a handheld grilled sandwich. It’s perfect for lunch, a cozy dinner, or whenever you need a quick, satisfying bite that feels a little gourmet.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Decadent yet fresh: The mascarpone adds creaminess while fresh herbs bring bright, aromatic flavors.
• Cheese lover’s dream: Sharp provolone, mozzarella, and parmesan create a rich, melty cheese blend.
• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh herbs you can easily grow or find.
• Easy to make: Just a few steps and you have a restaurant-quality sandwich at home.
• Versatile: Great for pairing with a simple salad or soup for a complete meal.
• Perfectly crispy bread: Thick Italian or sourdough slices get golden, crunchy, and irresistible.

Ingredient Notes

• Garlic: Using 2 bulbs of garlic might seem like a lot, but roasting or sautéing them softens their bite and brings out a sweet, mellow flavor perfect for the mascarpone spread.
• Olive oil: A teaspoon adds richness and helps sauté the garlic gently.
• Salt: Just a pinch is enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering the delicate cheeses.
• Mascarpone cheese: This creamy cheese is the base of the spread, giving it a luscious texture and mild tanginess. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Fresh herbs: Basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley bring the classic white pizza flavors to the sandwich. Fresh is best for brightness and aroma.
• Provolone cheese: Sharp provolone adds a punchy, slightly smoky flavor that melts beautifully.
• Mozzarella cheese: Freshly grated mozzarella melts into a gooey, stretchy layer that everyone loves.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish to the cheese blend.
• Bread: Use thick slices of Italian or sourdough bread. They toast up beautifully, holding all that cheesy goodness without getting soggy.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large skillet or griddle: For perfectly toasting the sandwiches evenly.
• Spatula: To flip and press the grilled cheese gently.
• Grater: For shredding provolone, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
• Mixing bowl: To combine mascarpone, garlic, herbs, and salt smoothly.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping fresh herbs and slicing bread if needed.

Directions: White Pizza Grilled Cheese.

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Herb Mascarpone Spread

Start by peeling and finely mincing the garlic cloves. In a small pan, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over low heat and gently sauté the garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese with the sautéed garlic, a pinch of salt, and all the freshly chopped herbs: basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed. Set aside.

Step 2: Grate the Cheese Blend

Using a grater, shred the sharp provolone, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. In a separate bowl, mix them together to create your melty white pizza cheese blend.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

Lay out your slices of Italian or sourdough bread. Spread a generous layer of the garlic herb mascarpone mixture on one side of each slice. Then sprinkle a hearty amount of the cheese blend over half of the bread slices. Top with the remaining slices, mascarpone side down, to form sandwiches.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwiches

Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches carefully on the surface. Cook slowly for about 4-5 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt evenly and the bread to crisp up to a golden brown. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Once the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted perfectly, remove the sandwiches from the pan. Let them rest for a minute, then slice and serve hot. For a fun twist, try pairing your White Pizza Grilled Cheese with a side of Cheesy Pizza Panini or a fresh salad.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

• Swap fresh herbs for dried if fresh are unavailable, but reduce quantity by half to avoid overpowering.
• Use kale or spinach blended into the mascarpone for an extra nutrient boost.
• Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions for sweetness and depth.
• In place of Italian bread, try a rustic whole wheat or multigrain loaf for added texture.

What Could Go Wrong

• Cheese not melting properly: Using too high heat can cause cheese to burn rather than melt. Cook low and slow for best results.
• Bread sogginess: If the mascarpone spread is too thick or applied too heavily, it may soak into the bread. Use a thin, even layer.
• Burnt garlic flavor: Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked. Sauté gently and remove from heat once golden.
• Uneven cooking: Press sandwiches consistently while grilling and flip carefully for even toasting.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Leftover White Pizza Grilled Cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to warm slowly, preserving the crispy bread and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Reader Questions

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?

While fresh garlic gives the best flavor, you can substitute with about 1 teaspoon of pre-minced garlic, but sauté it lightly to mellow the raw sharpness before mixing into the mascarpone.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

For a vegan version, try substituting the mascarpone with a creamy nut-based cheese spread and swap the cheese blend for a plant-based shredded cheese alternative. You might also want to check out this Vegan Bechamel Sauce for a creamy base to spread instead.

Can I prepare the garlic herb spread in advance?

Absolutely! The garlic herb mascarpone spread can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling your sandwiches.

What’s the best way to chop fresh herbs quickly?

Gather herbs into a tight bundle, then use a sharp knife to finely mince them with a rocking motion. This method saves time and ensures even chopping.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Cheesy Pizza Panini – Another delicious sandwich with a cheesy twist.
• Vegan Bechamel Sauce – A creamy sauce perfect for dairy-free cooking.
• Baked Feta Cheese – A simple, flavorful cheese dish with Mediterranean flair.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients, heat your skillet, and prepare to indulge in the ultimate comfort food. This White Pizza Grilled Cheese is guaranteed to impress your taste buds with its creamy, cheesy herb-filled layers and crisp, golden bread. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this sandwich will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Happy grilling!

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