Best Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

Grilled cheese is a comfort food classic, but when you add pesto, it transforms into something extraordinary. The Best Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich combines golden, buttery bread with gooey mozzarella and the fresh, herby kick of basil pesto. It’s melty, savory, and downright irresistible.

This sandwich is perfect for quick lunches, cozy dinners, or pairing with a bowl of tomato soup. With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a gourmet-level meal in minutes.

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough bread (or your favorite artisan bread)
• 4 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
• Optional: sliced tomatoes or spinach for extra filling

Instructions

1. Prepare Bread
   Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Spread pesto on the other side.
2. Assemble Sandwich
   On two slices (pesto side up), add mozzarella and parmesan. Top with optional tomato or spinach.
3. Add Top Slice
   Place remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.
4. Cook Sandwich
   Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and cook until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.
5. Serve & Enjoy
   Slice diagonally and serve immediately, ideally with tomato soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes.
• Gourmet Flavor: Basil pesto elevates grilled cheese to a whole new level.
• Customizable: Add veggies, chicken, or even prosciutto for variations.

Variations

• Caprese Grilled Cheese: Add sliced fresh tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Chicken Pesto Melt: Add shredded cooked chicken.
• Spinach & Artichoke Twist: Mix spinach and artichokes with the cheese for a Mediterranean vibe.

Serving Ideas

• Classic pairing: tomato soup.
• Serve with a small side salad for a balanced meal.
• Cut into quarters for party appetizers.

Best Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A golden, buttery grilled cheese sandwich filled with mozzarella, parmesan, and basil pesto – a gourmet twist on the classic comfort food.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 2 sandwiches

Course: Lunch, Snack

Cuisine: Italian-American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 slices sourdough bread or artisan bread
• 4 tbsp basil pesto homemade or store-bought
• 2 tbsp butter softened
• 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
• 2 tbsp parmesan cheese grated
• sliced tomatoes or spinach optional

Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Spatula
• Knife

Method

 

1. Spread butter on one side of each bread slice, pesto on the other side.
2. On two slices (pesto side up), add mozzarella and parmesan. Add optional veggies if using.
3. Top with remaining bread slices, butter side facing out.
4. Heat skillet over medium and cook sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts.
5. Slice diagonally and serve hot with tomato soup or salad.

Notes

Cook over medium-low heat for the best melt and crunch. Homemade pesto gives a fresher flavor.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh sourdough for the perfect crunch.
• Low and slow cooking ensures the cheese melts without burning the bread.
• Homemade pesto gives the best flavor, but good-quality store-bought works too.

Conclusion

The Best Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a simple recipe that delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re craving comfort food or want to impress guests with a gourmet twist on a classic, this recipe is a must-try.