Pesto Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)
Crispy sourdough layered with melted mozzarella and aromatic basil pesto for a gourmet twist on classic comfort food.
# What You'll Need:
→ Bread
01 - 4 slices sourdough bread
→ Cheese
02 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
03 - 2 oz sharp provolone or fontina, sliced
→ Pesto
04 - 3 tbsp basil pesto
→ Butter
05 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
→ Optional Additions
06 - 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 small tomato, thinly sliced
08 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How to Make It:
01 - Lay out all bread slices on a clean work surface. Spread approximately 1/2 tablespoon of softened butter evenly on one side of each slice.
02 - On the unbuttered side of two bread slices, spread 1 1/2 tablespoons of basil pesto in an even layer to the edges.
03 - Layer sliced mozzarella and provolone over the pesto-coated slices. Add tomato slices if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and season with freshly ground black pepper.
04 - Top each prepared slice with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered sides face outward for optimal crisping.
05 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat until evenly warmed.
06 - Place sandwiches in the preheated skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread achieves golden-brown color and cheese is completely melted.
07 - Remove sandwiches from skillet and allow to rest for 1-2 minutes. Slice diagonally and serve warm while cheese remains gooey.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The combination of melty mozzarella and bright basil pesto hits every single comfort food craving in one bite
- It comes together in under 20 minutes but tastes like something from an Italian cafe
02 -
- Medium-low heat is non-negotiable because high heat burns the bread before the cheese has time to melt
- Letting the sandwiches rest for even one minute prevents that tragic moment when all the cheese oozes out when you cut them
03 -
- Grating extra Parmesan on the buttered outside creates a cheese crust that is absolutely next level
- Use a spatula to press down gently while cooking to ensure the cheese melts evenly and bread makes good contact with the pan