This melt-in-your-mouth grilled cheese is a fun twist on the classic! With creamy cheese and zesty pesto, your taste buds are in for a treat.
My secret? A little extra pesto on the crust makes it even better. I swear, you’ll be turning this into a lunch favorite in no time! 😄
I love that it’s so easy to whip up. Just spread some pesto, add your cheese, and grill it to perfection. It’s quick and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick slices of sourdough or country loaf are perfect for this grilled cheese. They hold up well and add great flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free bread that you enjoy!
Pesto: Ready-made pesto is super convenient, but homemade gives a fresh taste. You can substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto or even a spinach-based pesto if you have it on hand.
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, but if you want more flavor, try aged cheddar or provolone. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheese shreds.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness, but you could use olive oil instead for a healthier option or to boost flavor. Just make sure it’s a good quality oil!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Melty Cheese?
The key to achieving gooey, melted cheese is low and slow cooking! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat—if it’s too high, the bread will burn before the cheese melts.
- Assemble your sandwich and place it in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side.
- When you flip the sandwich, press down gently with a spatula. This helps the heat reach the cheese more evenly.
- Keep an eye on the bread to make sure it doesn’t get too dark. If needed, lower the heat.
Give your sandwich a few extra minutes if the cheese isn’t fully melted. Patience here pays off deliciously!
Easy Pesto Grilled Cheese
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of thick white bread (such as sourdough or country loaf)
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Optional: extra basil leaves for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious grilled cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 5 minutes getting everything ready and another 5 minutes grilling it to perfection. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Start by warming your skillet or griddle over medium heat. It’s important to get it hot enough so the bread gets nice and golden brown!
2. Butter the Bread:
Take your softened butter and spread it evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This will make the bread crispy and flavorful when grilled.
3. Add the Pesto:
Now, flip the slices over so the buttered side is facing down. On the unbuttered side of two of the slices, spread a generous layer of basil pesto. Don’t be shy—this is what gives the sandwich its amazing flavor!
4. Layer the Cheese:
Place slices of fresh mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the pesto. If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add a little extra!
5. Assemble the Sandwich:
Take the remaining two slices of bread and place them on top, making sure the buttered side is facing out. Now you have your sandwiches ready to cook!
6. Grill the Sandwiches:
Carefully place the assembled sandwiches in the preheated skillet. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them, and when the bread is golden brown and the cheese is gooey, they’re ready!
7. Press Down:
While grilling, gently press the sandwich with a spatula. This helps the cheese melt evenly and stick to the bread.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for just a minute. Slice them in half and serve warm. You can garnish with extra basil leaves if you like. Enjoy this comforting and cheesy masterpiece!
These pesto grilled cheese sandwiches are sure to become a family favorite, bringing a burst of flavor with every bite!
FAQ for Easy Pesto Grilled Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is delightful for its gooey texture, you can also use cheddar, provolone, or even Swiss cheese for a different flavor. Just make sure your cheese melts well!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Cheese?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat for the best texture, or use a microwave if you’re in a hurry, although it may make the bread a bit softer.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the mozzarella with your favorite vegan cheese and use margarine or olive oil instead of butter. Check that your pesto is vegan-friendly too, or make a simple one using basil, nuts, and nutritional yeast!
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Get creative! Try adding sliced tomatoes, fresh spinach, or roasted red peppers inside for extra flavor and nutrition. You could also drizzle some balsamic glaze on top before serving for a gourmet touch!
