Shelly's Recipe

ITALIAN GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH

Category: Sandwiches

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
Salt and pepper
4 oz thinly sliced deli pepperoni
8 oz thinly sliced Provolone deli cheese
8 slices thick-cut crusty bread (see note)
8 oz thinly sliced deli mozzarella cheese

Heat oil in saucepan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in tomatoes and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Mash mixture with potato masher until only small chunks of tomato remain. Stir in 1 tablespoon basil and season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.

Arrange pepperoni in single layer on paper towel-lined plate. Cover with paper towels and microwave until fat has rendered, about 30 seconds.

Layer provolone on 4 slices bread, then top with pepperoni, remaining basil, and mozzarella. Top with remaining bread. Heat grill pan or large nonstick skillet over medium heat for 1 minute. Place 2 sandwiches in pan and weight with Dutch oven. Cook sandwiches until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 5 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining sandwiches. Serve with tomato sauce. Serves 4

Note: For the best results, buy a rustic 8-inch loaf, often called a boule, with a crusty exterior and a substantial, slightly chewy crumb. Cut the bread into thick slices yourself.