Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe

Introduction

The Best Pesto Grilled Cheese offers a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. Combining aromatic basil pesto with melty cheese, this sandwich delivers a savory, crispy delight that’s quick and easy to make. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a satisfying snack bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or your preferred type)
• 1–2 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 slices of cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of both)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for spreading on the outside of the bread)
• Optional additions: fresh tomato slices, arugula, grilled chicken, or balsamic glaze

Instructions

1. Step 1: Spread 1–2 tablespoons of pesto evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Step 2: Place one or two slices of cheese over the pesto on one slice of bread. Use mozzarella for a gooey melt, cheddar for sharper flavor, or a mix for richness.
3. Step 3: Top with the second slice of bread, pesto side facing the cheese, and press gently to hold the sandwich together.
4. Step 4: Spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of each slice to ensure a golden, crispy crust.
5. Step 5: Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill the sandwich for 3–4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted.
6. Step 6: Remove from the pan, slice diagonally, and serve warm with your favorite sides like soup, salad, or chips.

Tips & Variations

• Add fresh tomato slices, arugula, or grilled chicken inside for extra flavor and texture.
• Use whole wheat bread and Greek yogurt-based pesto for a healthier twist.
• Reduce the butter or use a light spread to lower fat content while keeping the crispiness.
• Try a vegan version using dairy-free cheese and vegan pesto.
• Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Storage

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for 1–2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet to keep the bread crispy and the cheese melted.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for this grilled cheese?

Yes, you can use sourdough, whole wheat, or your preferred bread. A sturdier bread like sourdough helps hold the sandwich together and crisps nicely.

Is it necessary to butter the outside of the bread?

Butter on the outside is key to achieving a golden, crispy crust. You can use a light spread or substitute with olive oil if preferred.

Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 127 reviews

The Best Pesto Grilled Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, featuring aromatic basil pesto combined with melty mozzarella and cheddar cheese. This quick and easy recipe delivers a crispy, savory delight perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack bursting with rich and fresh flavors.

• Author: reem
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Sandwich Ingredients

• 2 slices of bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or your preferred type)
• 1–2 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 slices of cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of both)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for spreading on the outside of the bread)

Optional Additions

• Fresh tomato slices
• Arugula
• Grilled chicken
• Balsamic glaze

Instructions

1. Spread the Pesto: Spread 1–2 tablespoons of pesto evenly on one side of each slice of bread, ensuring a flavorful base for your sandwich.
2. Add the Cheese: Place one or two slices of cheese on top of the pesto on one bread slice. Mozzarella provides a gooey melt, cheddar adds sharpness, or combine both for richer taste.
3. Assemble the Sandwich: Place the second pesto-covered bread slice on top, with pesto side facing the cheese, and press gently to hold together.
4. Butter the Outside: Spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of each bread slice to achieve a golden and crispy crust.
5. Grill the Sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill the sandwich for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden and the cheese has fully melted.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwich from the skillet, slice diagonally, and serve warm with your choice of soup, salad, or chips.

Notes

• Variation Ideas: Add fresh tomato, arugula, or grilled chicken for extra flavor. For a vegetarian version, use pesto and cheese only, or try vegan cheese alternatives.
• Healthier Swaps: Use whole wheat bread, opt for Greek yogurt–based pesto, or reduce butter to lighten the sandwich.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted vegetables, fruit skewers, or a light garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Storage: Best served fresh but can be refrigerated for 1–2 days. Reheat in a pan to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: Pesto grilled cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, pesto sandwich, quick lunch, easy dinner, vegetarian sandwich, melted cheese sandwich