Description
If you love the sweet and savory combination of Hawaiian pizza and the gooey, crispy goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich, then this Hawaiian Pizza Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mash-up you need to try. Loaded with melty mozzarella, sweet pineapple, smoky ham, and a touch of tangy marinara, this sandwich delivers all the flavors of your favorite pizza between two crispy, buttery slices of bread.
Perfect for quick lunches, weeknight dinners, or a satisfying snack, this recipe brings a fun twist to a classic grilled cheese, and it only takes 15 minutes to make!
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough bread (or bread of choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 slices deli ham (or Canadian bacon)
- ⅓ cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ¼ cup marinara sauce (or pizza sauce)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread & Ingredients
- Spread butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
- On the unbuttered side of two slices, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle a little garlic powder and oregano over the marinara for extra flavor.
2. Assemble the Sandwich
- Layer on shredded mozzarella cheese, ham, and crushed pineapple.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little kick (optional).
- Top with more mozzarella cheese and place the second slice of bread on top (buttered side facing out).
3. Grill to Perfection
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is fully melted.
- Press down gently with a spatula to help everything meld together.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from heat and let the sandwiches sit for a minute before slicing.
- Serve hot with extra pizza sauce for dipping!
Notes
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Pizza Grilled Cheese
- Use Sourdough or Texas Toast – Thick, sturdy bread holds up well to the fillings.
- Drain the Pineapple Well – Excess liquid can make the sandwich soggy.
- Low & Slow is Key – Cook on medium-low heat to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
- Try Different Cheeses – Swap mozzarella for provolone or a blend for extra cheesiness.
- Crispier Finish? – Sprinkle Parmesan on the buttered side of the bread before grilling.