Description
Pesto Grilled Cheese is a gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, combining rich, melty cheese with the bold, herby flavor of pesto. The buttery, crispy bread encases a luscious filling of gooey cheese and aromatic pesto, creating a sandwich that’s simple yet packed with flavor. This elevated comfort food is perfect for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or even a decadent snack. Pair it with a bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comforting meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 slices of sourdough or Italian bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (or 1 cup shredded)
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or 1 cup shredded)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a crispy crust)
Ingredient Highlights
- Pesto: A flavorful mix of basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil that brings freshness and depth to the sandwich.
- Mozzarella & Provolone: The perfect cheese combination for a melty, stretchy, and slightly tangy bite.
- Sourdough Bread: Its sturdy texture holds up well to grilling and adds a nice tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese and pesto.
- Butter: Essential for achieving a crispy, golden-brown crust. You can also use mayo for an extra crispy exterior.
Instructions
Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. If using Parmesan, sprinkle a little on the buttered side for extra crispiness.
- Add the Pesto: Flip the bread over (buttered side down) and spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on each unbuttered side.
- Layer the Cheese: Place two slices of mozzarella and two slices of provolone on top of the pesto on two slices of bread. Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder if using.
- Top with Bread: Place the remaining slices of bread on top, buttered side facing up.
Cook the Sandwiches:
- Preheat the Pan: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and crispy.
- Melt the Cheese: If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, lower the heat and cover the pan for a minute to help the cheese fully melt.
- Serve Immediately: Once the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown, remove from heat and let sit for a minute before slicing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 15g