Pesto Grilled Cheese Perfection

Featured in Appetizing Starters.

Craving a gourmet grilled cheese? This recipe elevates the classic with basil pesto, creamy mozzarella, and sharp cheddar. Ready in under 15 minutes, it's the perfect quick lunch or satisfying snack. Use sourdough or Italian bread for the best results. For extra flavor, try adding sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers. Don't forget the tomato soup for dipping!

Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 8 mins | Serves: 2

Key Ingredients: Bread, butter, pesto, mozzarella, cheddar

Casey
Updated on Tue, 14 Oct 2025 14:39:58 GMT
A slice of toasted bread with green stuff on it. Pin it
A slice of toasted bread with green stuff on it. | cookingwithcasey.com

Pesto grilled cheese sandwiches are a simple way to turn an ordinary lunch into something unforgettable Rich pesto creamy mozzarella and sharp cheddar all melt together between golden slices of bread delivering comfort and vibrance in each bite This is the grilled cheese I turn to when I want something cozy but just a bit gourmet It comes together so quickly that I often make it for a weeknight dinner when life gets hectic

This sandwich became a favorite for my husband and me during late-night movie nights Its gooey center and crispy edges never disappoint and we now keep pesto in the fridge just for this recipe

Ingredients

  • Thick-cut bread: such as sourdough or Italian This holds up beautifully to the weight of the pesto and gooey cheese For the best texture pick a loaf with a chewy interior and sturdy crust
  • Softened butter: Allows for an irresistibly crispy and golden exterior Room-temperature butter is easier to spread so let it warm up on the counter if possible
  • Basil pesto: Use a high-quality pesto with bright green color and fresh basil aroma Homemade is great for the freshest flavor but select store-bought that lists olive oil and real basil near the top of the ingredients
  • Mozzarella cheese: The king of meltability It blankets the bread in creamy strings of cheese Choose whole milk mozzarella for a richer taste
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: Offers a punchy savory contrast to the mild mozzarella Look for aged cheddar for extra depth and tang

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Bread:
Spread a generous layer of softened butter over one side of each bread slice On the other side spread basil pesto all the way to the edges for maximum flavor
Build the Sandwich:
Arrange mozzarella and cheddar slices in a single layer on the pesto side of two bread slices Place the remaining slices of bread on top with the buttered side facing out
Grill the Sandwich:
Set a nonstick skillet over medium heat Once hot lay the sandwiches in the pan Cook for about three to four minutes per side You want each side golden brown and the cheese inside completely melted If needed lower the heat slightly to avoid burning and ensure even melting
Rest and Serve:
Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board and let them cool for a couple of minutes before slicing This resting time keeps the cheeses from oozing out and burning your fingers Serve on their own or dunked in hot tomato soup
A slice of grilled cheese sandwich. Pin it
A slice of grilled cheese sandwich. | cookingwithcasey.com

One of my favorite parts of making this sandwich is watching the cheese bubble out the edges growing up we would rush to the kitchen to snag the first crispy bits sliced from the pan

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers wrapped tightly in foil or an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours or in the fridge overnight To reheat use a skillet over low heat This brings back the crispy crust better than the microwave ever could

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in different cheeses for new flavors Provolone fontina or gouda are melty options For a vegan twist plant-based butters and cheese alternatives work surprisingly well You can try sun-dried tomato pesto for even more punch if basil is not your favorite

Serving Suggestions

Pair your pesto grilled cheese with a bowl of classic tomato soup for comfort food perfection It also makes a satisfying lunch with a simple salad or even as a snack cut into small triangles for sharing at parties

A Brief History

While grilled cheese has been comforting eaters for generations the addition of pesto comes from Italian influences Pesto from Genoa Italy was traditionally used for pasta but its bold flavor translates perfectly to this modern twist on a diner favorite

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of bread is best for this?

Sourdough or Italian bread works best due to its sturdy texture and ability to hold up to the melted cheese and pesto.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Provolone, fontina, or gouda are excellent alternatives for a unique flavor profile.

→ How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a delightful kick.

→ Is there a vegan version?

Yes! Substitute vegan butter, pesto, and cheese alternatives to create a plant-based version.

→ What's the secret to a crispy crust?

Brush the outside of the bread with mayonnaise instead of butter for an extra crispy and golden crust.

→ What goes well with this sandwich?

Tomato soup is a classic pairing! A simple side salad also complements the richness of the grilled cheese.

Pesto Grilled Cheese Perfection

Irresistible grilled cheese with creamy mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and vibrant basil pesto. A quick and flavorful comfort food upgrade.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
8 Minutes
Total Time
13 Minutes
By: Casey

Category: Tasty Snacks

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 2 Servings (2 sandwiches)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Core Components

01 4 slices thick-cut bread (such as sourdough or Italian loaf)
02 30 grams softened unsalted butter
03 30 grams fresh basil pesto
04 4 slices whole milk mozzarella cheese
05 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 01

Generously spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice, ensuring even coverage for a golden crust.

Step 02

On the opposite, unbuttered side of two bread slices, spread half of the basil pesto. Repeat this for the remaining two slices.

Step 03

Evenly layer two slices of mozzarella cheese followed by two slices of sharp cheddar cheese on the pesto-coated side of two bread slices. Top with the remaining two bread slices, ensuring the buttered side faces outwards.

Step 04

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwiches in the hot skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the bread is perfectly golden brown and the cheeses are thoroughly melted and bubbling.

Step 05

Remove the grilled sandwiches from the skillet and allow them to rest for 1-2 minutes. This brief resting period helps the cheese set. Slice each sandwich diagonally and serve immediately, either on its own or alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup.

Notes

  1. For an intensified flavor, incorporate a small pinch of red pepper flakes directly into the basil pesto before spreading.
  2. Experiment with different cheese varieties such as provolone, fontina, or smoked gouda to develop a unique taste profile.
  3. Enhance texture and freshness by adding thinly sliced ripe tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the sandwich filling.
  4. To create a vegan version, substitute all dairy products with plant-based butter, vegan pesto, and vegan cheese alternatives.
  5. For an exceptionally crispy exterior, brush the outer surfaces of the bread with a thin layer of mayonnaise instead of butter before grilling.

Tools You'll Need

  • Nonstick skillet

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 30 g
  • Protein: 25 g