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This upgraded pesto mozzarella grilled cheese turns ordinary comfort food into something really special, mixing gooey melted cheese with fresh, herby basil pesto flavors. You'll love how the buttery crisp outside contrasts with the stretchy, melted cheese inside for a sandwich that feels both comforting and new.
I whipped up this sandwich one wet afternoon when I wanted comfort food but was bored with regular grilled cheese. It's now what I make when I need to wow someone but don't want to spend forever cooking.
What You'll Need
- Sourdough bread: Makes a tough, slightly tangy base that works great with the pesto
- Basil pesto: Packs tons of herb flavor and richness in one spread. Try to grab one where you can see the olive oil floating on top
- Mozzarella cheese: Gives you that awesome stretchy pull and mild creaminess. Go with fresh mozzarella if you can
- Unsalted butter: Lets you decide how salty it'll be while making that golden outside crust
- Optional Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty kick that makes everything taste even better
How To Make It
- Get Your Bread Ready:
- Smear a big spoonful of pesto all over one side of each bread slice, going right to the edges. The pesto oil will soak into the bread a bit, adding flavor before you even start cooking.
- Add Your Cheese:
- Put mozzarella evenly across the pesto on two slices of bread. If you're using fresh mozzarella, pat it dry with paper towels first so your sandwich doesn't get soggy. Sprinkle Parmesan on top if you're using it.
- Put It Together:
- Top with the other bread slices, pesto side down toward the cheese. Push down gently to squish it a bit, which helps the cheese melt evenly.
- Butter It Up:
- Spread a thin coat of soft butter all over the outside of both sides. Make sure you get butter right to the edges so it browns evenly.
- Cook It:
- Warm your pan on medium heat until water drops sizzle on it. Put your sandwich in and listen for that nice sizzle sound. Cook about 2-3 minutes, pressing down now and then with a spatula, then flip carefully and cook until the other side is golden and crispy too.
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What I love most about this sandwich is how the basil pesto smell and taste just takes over the whole thing. Once I made these for my friend who said she hated pesto, and I couldn't help smiling when I saw her surprised look after the first bite.
Great Side Options
This fancy grilled cheese deserves good company. Basic tomato soup works perfectly with it. The soup's tanginess cuts through the rich cheese while matching the herby pesto. If you want something lighter, try a small arugula salad with just lemon juice and olive oil dressing, which goes with the pesto flavors and adds a nice crunchy contrast.
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Saving For Later
Grilled cheese always tastes best right off the stove, but you can get them ready ahead of time for quick cooking later. Make the sandwiches without buttering the outside, wrap them tight in plastic, and keep in the fridge for up to a day. When you're ready, just butter the outside and cook as usual. You can warm up already cooked sandwiches in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, though they won't be quite as good as fresh ones.
Different Pesto Ideas
What's cool about this sandwich is how easy it is to switch things up. Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a sweeter, stronger taste. Arugula pesto adds a peppery flavor that goes nicely with the mild mozzarella. In winter, try kale pesto with walnuts for a more earthy taste. Each change makes the sandwich feel brand new while using the same cooking method.
Common Questions
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Any bread with a firm crust works great. Grab ciabatta, baguette slices, or try sourdough for extra tang in your sandwich!
- → What kind of pesto works best?
Traditional basil pesto really shines here, but don't be afraid to switch it up with sun-dried tomato or even spinach pesto for something different.
- → Can I make this without butter?
Sure thing! Swap butter for a splash of olive oil or a quick spray of cooking spray if you want something lighter. Just know that butter gives you that amazing golden crust.
- → How do I ensure the cheese melts thoroughly?
Keep your heat at medium and don't rush it. This lets the cheese get all gooey while your bread turns nice and golden without burning.
- → What add-ins pair well with this sandwich?
So many things work! Try tucking in some juicy tomato slices, fresh spinach leaves, or drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze on top for extra punch.