Pesto Grilled Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pesto Grilled Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic sandwich, combining gooey melted cheese with vibrant, herby pesto between perfectly golden slices of bread. It’s a quick, satisfying option for lunch or a cozy dinner, delivering bold Italian-inspired flavors in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bread (sourdough or your favorite type)butter or olive oilmozzarella cheesefresh basil pestofresh spinach or arugula (optional)tomato slices (optional)Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

directions

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.

Spread a thin layer of butter or olive oil on one side of each bread slice.

Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.

Spread a generous amount of pesto on the unbuttered side facing up.

Layer on mozzarella cheese and optional ingredients like spinach and tomato.

Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.

Grill until the bottom is golden brown, about 3–4 minutes, then flip and cook the other side until the cheese is melted and the bread is crisp.

Remove from heat, let sit for a minute, then slice and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 sandwiches.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 8–10 minutesTotal time: 13–15 minutes

Variations

Use different cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or fontina for a new flavor.

Try sun-dried tomato pesto instead of traditional basil pesto.

Add cooked bacon or roasted red peppers for extra richness.

Use ciabatta or focaccia for a different bread texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover sandwiches wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through and crispy again, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, both store-bought and homemade pesto work well in this recipe.

What kind of cheese melts best for grilled cheese?

Mozzarella, fontina, provolone, or a blend are excellent melty choices.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use vegan cheese and dairy-free pesto alternatives to make it dairy-free.

What’s the best bread for grilled cheese?

Sourdough, Italian bread, or any hearty sandwich bread will work beautifully.

Should I use butter or olive oil?

Both add flavor and crispness—choose based on your preference.

Can I make it in a panini press?

Yes, a panini press works great and creates a beautifully crisp crust.

Conclusion

Pesto Grilled Cheese is the perfect fusion of comfort food and gourmet flavor. With minimal ingredients and quick prep, it’s an easy way to elevate your sandwich game. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to grilled cheese variation.

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