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Pesto Grilled Cheese

A gourmet twist on classic grilled cheese with vibrant basil pesto and melty cheeses on toasted bread.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Lunch, Snack
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Sandwich Components
  • 4 slices sourdough bread or ciabatta
  • 4 tablespoons basil pesto divided
  • 4 ounces mozzarella cheese sliced
  • 2 ounces cheddar cheese sliced, optional
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 0.25 cup fresh tomato slices optional
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Lay out 4 slices of bread and spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on one side of each.
  2. On two slices, layer mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, plus optional tomatoes and red pepper flakes.
  3. Top with remaining bread slices, pesto side down.
  4. Spread butter on the outer sides of the sandwiches.
  5. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook sandwiches 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
  6. Rest for 1 minute, slice, and serve.

Notes

Use fresh pesto for best flavor; adjust cheeses to preference.