Save The smell of basil pesto hitting warm bread still takes me back to a tiny apartment kitchen where my roommate first introduced me to this combination. We were broke, tired, and experimenting with whatever we had in the fridge. That first bite changed everything I thought I knew about grilled cheese.
I started making these for weekend lunches when friends would drop by unexpectedly. Something about the aroma of melting cheese and basil makes people linger around the kitchen island. It became the sandwich that turned casual hangouts into little moments worth remembering.
Ingredients
- Bread: Sourdough gives you that ideal crunch and tangy depth that holds up beautifully to grilling
- Fresh mozzarella: This cheese melts into creamy puddles rather than separating like some aged varieties
- Basil pesto: Storebought works perfectly but homemade adds a bright, fresh kick that makes this sing
- Sundried tomatoes: Pat them dry thoroughly so excess oil does not make your bread soggy
- Unsalted butter: Softening it ahead of time lets you spread it thinly and evenly across every inch
Instructions
- Spread the pesto foundation:
- Lay out all four bread slices and spread one tablespoon of pesto across two of them, going almost to the edges but leaving a slight border.
- Build the layers:
- Arrange your mozzarella slices over the pesto, then scatter the sundried tomatoes on top so every bite gets some.
- Close the sandwiches:
- Place the remaining plain bread slices on top and press down gently to help everything adhere.
- Butter the exterior:
- Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on the outside faces of both sandwiches.
- Start grilling:
- Heat your skillet over mediumlow heat and place the sandwiches buttered side down, listening for that gentle sizzle.
- Get the golden color:
- Cook for three to four minutes until the bottom is deeply golden, then butter the top before flipping.
Save My sister still requests these whenever she visits, and we have turned the preparation into a ritual. She handles the assembly while I manage the stove, talking about everything and nothing while the butter sputters away.
Choosing the Right Bread
Sourdough is my go-to because its sturdy structure stands up to the weight of the cheese without collapsing. Country bread works beautifully too, but avoid ultrafluffy sandwich bread that will turn mushy under all these rich ingredients.
Perfecting Your Pesto Game
Homemade pesto brings a brightness that makes this unforgettable, but a highquality jarred version absolutely delivers. Just taste it first and adjust with a pinch of salt if needed before spreading.
Serving Ideas That Work
A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Some nights I serve this alongside roasted tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal. You can also add a handful of fresh baby spinach inside the sandwich for a pop of color and freshness.
- Try swapping mozzarella for provolone when you want a sharper bite
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan on the buttered outside before grilling for an extra crispy cheesy crust
- Cut leftovers into small strips and toast them for croutons that will elevate any soup
Save Sometimes the simplest recipes become the ones we return to again and again. This grilled cheese has saved countless rainy afternoons in my kitchen.
Cooking Q&A
- → What type of bread works best?
Sourdough or country bread provide the ideal texture and flavor, holding up well to grilling while adding a pleasant tang.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?
Yes, provolone or fontina are excellent substitutes that melt nicely and complement the pesto and tomatoes.
- → How do I prevent the bread from burning while grilling?
Use medium-low heat and spread softened butter evenly on the outside slices to promote even browning without burning.
- → Is homemade pesto suitable for this preparation?
Absolutely. Fresh basil pesto enhances the vibrant flavor, though store-bought pesto works well too.
- → Can I add vegetables for extra freshness?
Adding baby spinach or arugula inside the sandwich provides a nice fresh contrast to the rich cheese and pesto.