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Best Pesto Grilled Cheese

Best Pesto Grilled Cheese
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The Best Pesto Grilled Cheese sandwich features a crispy, golden-brown crust with gooey melted mozzarella and fresh basil pesto, delivering a vibrant and comforting flavor that is quick and easy to make. Perfect for any meal or occasion, this recipe combines fresh ingredients with simple preparation to elevate classic comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Butter

  • 2 slices good-quality sturdy bread (sourdough or country loaf recommended)
  • Unsalted butter, enough to spread evenly on both outer sides of bread slices

Cheese

  • 4–6 slices mozzarella cheese (enough to cover one slice of bread)
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, about 1-2 tablespoons for sprinkling

Pesto

  • 2–3 tablespoons fresh basil pesto (homemade or good quality store-bought)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread and Pesto: Spread a generous layer of fresh basil pesto evenly on one side of each bread slice to create a flavorful base.
  2. Layer the Cheese: Place slices of mozzarella cheese over the pesto on one bread slice. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top of the mozzarella for extra flavor.
  3. Assemble the Sandwich: Place the second bread slice pesto-side down on top to form the sandwich. Spread unsalted butter evenly on the outside of both bread slices.
  4. Cook Until Golden and Melted: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing lightly, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted fully.
  5. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Remove the sandwich from the pan, let it cool for a minute, then slice and serve immediately to savor the crispy, cheesy goodness.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Pesto: Homemade pesto enhances flavor best, but quality store-bought pesto also works great.
  • Even Butter Spread: Spread softened butter evenly on the bread’s outer side for consistent browning and crunch.
  • Low and Slow Cooking: Cook on medium or medium-low heat to allow cheese melting without burning the bread.
  • Press Slightly: Gently press the sandwich while cooking to fuse ingredients and get a compact texture.
  • Add More Cheese: If desired, use extra mozzarella or blend with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for richer flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled cheese, pesto, basil pesto, mozzarella sandwich, comfort food, easy sandwich, quick meal

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