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Best Pesto Grilled Cheese

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 2 sandwiches
  • Category: Main Course / Lunch
  • Method: Stovetop (Pan Grilled)
  • Cuisine: American / Fusion
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

The Best Pesto Grilled Cheese is a crisp, golden‑on‑the‑outside and melty‑on‑the‑inside sandwich layered with herb‑rich pesto and gooey cheese—elevating a classic comfort food into something bold and satisfying.


Ingredients

  • 4 slices bread (sourdough, white, or whole grain)
  • 2‑3 tablespoons pesto (store‑bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (sliced or shredded)
  • ½ cup cheddar or provolone cheese (for added flavor)
  • Butter or mayonnaise (for spreading on the outside of the bread)
  • Optional fillings: tomato slices, baby spinach leaves, sun‑dried tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Spread pesto on the inside faces of both slices of bread.
  2. Layer mozzarella and cheddar/provolone between the pesto‑coated bread slices (add optional fillings if using).
  3. Butter or mayo the outside faces of the bread slices for a golden crust.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the sandwich, butter‑side down, in the pan.
  5. Cook 3‑4 minutes per side (press gently) until the bread is deep golden and the cheese is melted through.
  6. Remove from heat, let rest for a minute, then slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • The addition of pesto gives the sandwich a fresh, garlicky basil flavor that transforms a simple grilled cheese into something dynamic. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
  • Use a quality bread and good melting cheeses for the best texture and flavor—some recipes specifically recommend fresh mozzarella for meltability. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
  • If your pesto is very oily, use it more sparingly inside the sandwich to prevent soggy bread. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Cholesterol: undefined