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Pesto Grilled Cheese

Pesto Grilled Cheese

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free bread)

Description

Pesto Grilled Cheese is a quick and comforting sandwich featuring crispy golden bread, gooey melted mozzarella, and vibrant basil pesto. Perfect for a fast lunch or cozy dinner, this recipe combines simple pantry staples with fresh, herbaceous flavors, customizable to suit any dietary preference or craving.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 2 slices sturdy bread such as sourdough or rustic white bread

Cheese

  • 4–6 slices fresh mozzarella cheese

Pesto

  • 2 tablespoons high-quality basil pesto

Butter

  • 1–2 tablespoons softened butter for spreading and cooking

Optional Extras

  • Tomato slices
  • Fresh spinach leaves

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Gather your bread, fresh mozzarella slices, and high-quality basil pesto. Make sure your butter is softened so it spreads easily on the bread for that golden crisp.
  2. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of basil pesto on one side of each slice of bread. Layer mozzarella slices evenly on one piece, then top with the other slice, pesto side in. Add optional extras like tomato slices or spinach if desired.
  3. Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet or griddle on medium heat and melt a small amount of butter to coat the surface. This helps achieve a perfect golden crust.
  4. Grill the Sandwich: Place the sandwich in the pan and cook until the bottom is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is melted through.
  5. Serve Warm: Remove the sandwich from the pan, let it rest for a minute, then slice and serve while the cheese is still ooey-gooey and delicious.

Notes

  • Use high-quality pesto, fresh or store-bought, for best flavor.
  • Cook over medium-low heat to ensure the cheese melts thoroughly without burning the bread.
  • Press gently with a spatula for even browning and a compact bite.
  • Combine mozzarella with parmesan or cheddar for extra cheesy flavor.
  • Spread butter evenly on the bread to avoid soggy spots and get a consistent crust.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: pesto grilled cheese, basil pesto sandwich, melted cheese sandwich, quick lunch, easy dinner, kid-friendly, customizable grilled cheese

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/pesto-grilled-cheese/