Let’s be honest – sometimes you just need a quick lunch that feels like a treat. That’s where this flatbread pizza sandwich comes in handy. I started making these on busy days when I didn’t want to deal with a full pizza-making production, but still craved those classic pizza flavors.
The best part? You can throw this together in just a few minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your fridge. My kids actually prefer these to regular pizza now, and I love that there’s way less mess to clean up. I’ll often prep a few different filling combinations while I’m making dinner, so lunch is ready to go for the next day.
Whether you’re craving pepperoni and cheese or want to load it up with veggies, this flatbread pizza sandwich is totally customizable. Trust me, once you try this simple lunch hack, you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Sandwich
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Kid-friendly meal – It combines two favorites – pizza and sandwiches – into one fun meal that kids will actually want to eat.
- Simple ingredients – You only need a few basic ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store, and many of them might already be in your pantry.
- Customizable – While this recipe uses pepperoni, you can easily swap in your favorite pizza toppings to make it exactly how you like it.
- Perfect for lunch or dinner – These sandwiches work great for both lunch boxes and quick dinners, plus they’re easier to eat than regular pizza slices.
What Kind of Naan Should I Use?
Regular plain naan from your grocery store’s bread section or international aisle works perfectly for these pizza sandwiches. While traditional naan comes in several varieties like garlic, whole wheat, or onion-flavored, the plain version gives you the best blank canvas for your toppings. Most store-bought naan comes in a standard size that’s ideal for individual portions, but if you find mini naan, you can use those to make smaller sandwiches. Just make sure your naan is fresh and soft – if it feels stiff or dry, you can warm it briefly in the microwave under a damp paper towel to restore its softness before adding your toppings.
Options for Substitutions
This easy pizza sandwich recipe is super adaptable! Here are some handy swaps you can try:
- Naan bread: Can’t find naan? No worries! Pita bread, flatbread, or even thick tortillas work great here. Just keep in mind that cooking times might need to be adjusted slightly depending on the thickness.
- Marinara sauce: Regular pizza sauce works perfectly, or you can use any tomato-based pasta sauce you have. In a pinch, you can even mix crushed tomatoes with Italian seasonings and a pinch of salt.
- Turkey pepperoni: Regular pepperoni works just fine, or try ham, cooked Italian sausage, or leave it out for a vegetarian version. For a meat-free option, try adding sautéed mushrooms instead.
- Italian cheese blend: Any melting cheese works here! Try mozzarella, provolone, or a mix of your favorite cheeses. Even cheddar can work if that’s what you have on hand.
- Fresh basil: If fresh basil isn’t available, use 2 teaspoons dried basil, or skip it and just rely on the Italian herb mix. Fresh parsley can also add a nice touch of green.
- Italian herbs mix: Out of Italian seasoning? Mix equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme, or just use whatever dried herbs you have in your pantry.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
The biggest challenge when making flatbread pizza sandwiches is preventing the naan from becoming too crispy or burnt – keep a close eye on your broiler and position the rack in the middle of the oven rather than too close to the heat source.
A common error is overloading the flatbread with sauce, which can make your sandwich soggy and difficult to eat – stick to about 2-3 tablespoons of marinara per flatbread half, spreading it evenly while leaving a small border around the edges.
For the best melty cheese pull, avoid using pre-shredded cheese which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting – instead, take a few extra minutes to grate your own Italian cheese blend.
To prevent the fresh basil from wilting and turning brown, add it just before serving rather than during the cooking process, and if you’re making these ahead of time, wait to brush the outer edges with olive oil until right before heating to ensure the perfect crispy exterior.
What to Serve With Flatbread Pizza Sandwiches?
These pizza sandwiches are perfect with a simple side salad tossed in Italian dressing – the fresh, crisp lettuce helps balance out the warm, cheesy goodness of the sandwich. If you’re feeding a crowd, put out some chips or crispy potato wedges on the side for that classic pizzeria feel. I love serving these with a small bowl of extra marinara sauce for dipping, and some pickled pepperoncini peppers add a nice tangy kick to the meal. For a healthier option, a bowl of fresh raw veggies like carrots, celery, and cherry tomatoes works great too.
Storage Instructions
Keep Fresh: Got leftover flatbread pizza sandwiches? Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between each sandwich to prevent sticking. They’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days, though they’re best enjoyed within the first 2 days to maintain that nice texture.
Freeze: These sandwiches are perfect for meal prep! Wrap each sandwich individually in aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to label them with the date so you know when you made them.
Warm Up: When you’re ready to enjoy your stored sandwich, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. If it’s frozen, no need to thaw first – just add an extra 5-7 minutes to the heating time. The microwave works too, but the bread might not be as crispy.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 8-10 minutes |
| Total Time | 18-25 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 2100-2300
- Protein: 80-100 g
- Fat: 100-120 g
- Carbohydrates: 250-270 g
Ingredients
- 6 tbsp fresh basil (chopped, about 1/4-inch pieces)
- 5 oz turkey pepperoni slices
- 12 naan bread halves
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (I like Rao’s Homemade for great flavor)
- 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend (a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan works well)
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or any other neutral oil like canola)
Step 1: Prepare for Assembly
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
This will ensure the oven is at the right temperature when it’s time to bake.
Next, place 6 naan halves on a large rimmed baking sheet.
These will act as the base for your sandwiches.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread marinara sauce evenly over each naan half, ensuring each one is well covered.
Add slices of pepperoni on top of the sauce, followed by a generous amount of cheese.
Sprinkle fresh basil and any of your favorite seasoning for added flavor.
Once topped, place the remaining 6 naan halves on top of the prepared ones to create sandwiches.
Step 3: Brush with Oil
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the tops of the sandwiches with oil.
This will help them achieve a lovely golden-brown finish and add a touch of crispness to the bread.
Step 4: Bake the Sandwiches
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes.
Keep an eye on the sandwiches to ensure the bread becomes nicely toasted and the cheese melts perfectly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baking is complete, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven.
Allow the sandwiches to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your delicious naan pizza sandwiches hot, fresh, and bursting with flavor!
