Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Print View)

Golden toasted bread layered with basil pesto, melted mozzarella, and sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful melt.

# What You'll Need:

→ Bread

01 - 4 slices sourdough or country bread

→ Cheese

02 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced

→ Pesto

03 - 2 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

→ Vegetables

04 - 4–6 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced

→ For Grilling

05 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

# How To Make It:

01 - Arrange the bread slices on a flat surface. Spread one tablespoon of pesto evenly over two of the slices.
02 - Layer sliced mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes atop the pesto-spread bread.
03 - Cover with the remaining two bread slices to form sandwiches.
04 - Apply a thin layer of softened butter on the outside of each sandwich.
05 - Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
06 - Place sandwiches buttered side down on the skillet. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown.
07 - Butter the top sides, flip sandwiches, then cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, pressing gently until cheese is melted and both sides are golden.
08 - Remove from heat, allow sandwiches to rest for one minute, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Insights:

01 -
  • The pesto transforms a childhood classic into something that feels restaurant-worthy but takes less time than ordering delivery.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated sweetness that plays perfectly against the creamy cheese and aromatic basil.
  • It's proof that some of the best meals come from combining what's already in your kitchen without overthinking it.
02 -
  • Medium-low heat is your friend here—too hot and the bread burns before the cheese even starts to melt, too cool and you end up with pale, soggy bread.
  • Don't skip the rest period; even one minute makes a difference in how the cheese sets and how cleanly the sandwich cuts.
03 -
  • Slice your fresh mozzarella about a quarter-inch thick and pat it dry with paper towels before using—this helps it melt evenly without releasing excess moisture.
  • If your butter is too cold and tears the bread, soften it for 30 seconds in the microwave or just work with a different section of the stick.
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