Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Printable Version)
Crispy sourdough meets basil pesto and melted mozzarella for a gourmet twist on comfort food.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Bread
01 - 4 slices sourdough bread
→ Cheese
02 - 4 slices mozzarella cheese
03 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
→ Pesto
04 - 3 tablespoons basil pesto
→ Butter
05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
→ Optional Add-ins
06 - 2 slices tomato
07 - Fresh baby spinach leaves
# Directions:
01 - Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
02 - Flip the bread slices and spread about 1½ tablespoons of basil pesto on the unbuttered side of two slices.
03 - Layer 2 slices of mozzarella cheese on each pesto-covered slice and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan on top. Add tomato slices or fresh spinach if desired.
04 - Top each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward.
05 - Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
06 - Remove from the skillet and let rest for 1 minute before slicing. Serve warm.
# Top Tips:
01 -
- The way the crispy sourdough meets the aromatic basil pesto creates layers of flavor that make regular grilled cheese forgettable
- It transforms humble ingredients into something that feels fancy enough for company but ready in under 20 minutes
02 -
- Medium heat is crucial because high heat burns the bread before the cheese has time to melt properly
- Pressing gently with your spatula helps the bread make contact with the pan for even browning
03 -
- A sprinkle of pine nuts inside the sandwich adds incredible texture and reinforces the pesto flavor
- Let your butter come to room temperature before spreading to avoid tearing the bread