Pesto Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Combining the rich, creamy flavor of melted cheese with the aromatic, herby goodness of pesto, this sandwich is a hit for both kids and adults. It’s simple to make, quick to prepare, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
why make this recipe
Pesto Grilled Cheese is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. The blend of gooey cheese and fresh basil pesto creates a sandwich that is not only tasty but also vibrant in color. This dish is perfect for busy weekdays when you need something quick yet satisfying.
Moreover, it’s easily customizable. You can switch up the types of cheese or add different ingredients like tomatoes or spinach to make it healthier. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; you can serve it with a side salad for lunch, or pair it with a bowl of soup for a warm dinner.
Making this sandwich is also a great way to use up leftover pesto, which is often found in many kitchens. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find and usually already in your pantry. So, if you’re looking for a recipe that is fun, delicious, and adaptable, Pesto Grilled Cheese is a top choice.
how to make Pesto Grilled Cheese
Making Pesto Grilled Cheese is a breeze! Start with two slices of your favorite bread. Whole grain, sourdough, or white bread all work well. Then, take a generous amount of pesto and spread it evenly on one slice of bread. You want to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.
Next, add slices of cheese on top of the pesto. Mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone are great options. Make sure to use enough cheese so it melts nicely. After adding the cheese, place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
Now, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter. When the butter is melted and bubbling, place the sandwich in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown. Then, carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side until it’s also golden and the cheese melts, about another 3-4 minutes.
Once both sides are perfectly crispy and the cheese has melted, remove the sandwich from the skillet. Let it cool for a minute, then slice it in half and enjoy!
how to serve Pesto Grilled Cheese
Pesto Grilled Cheese is best served hot and melty! You can enjoy it on its own, or you can pair it with a side. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette would balance the richness of the sandwich. Another great option is a warm bowl of tomato soup, which complements the flavors beautifully.
For an extra touch, you can add some sliced tomatoes or spinach inside the sandwich before grilling. This makes it not only more nutritious but also adds layers of flavor. Serve it on a cute plate and perhaps garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.
If you want to make it a meal, consider adding some crispy potato chips or a pickle on the side. The crunch and tang of these sides will enhance your grilled cheese experience!
how to store Pesto Grilled Cheese
Storing leftover Pesto Grilled Cheese is simple. First, allow the sandwich to cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container. This helps to keep it fresh and prevents it from getting soggy.
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to eat it, reheat it in a skillet or on a griddle on low heat. This will help maintain the crispy texture of the bread while melting the cheese again.
If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing the sandwich. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can last in the freezer for about a month. To reheat, you can cook it directly from the freezer or let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling it again.
tips to make Pesto Grilled Cheese
To elevate your Pesto Grilled Cheese, here are some handy tips. First, don’t skip on the butter; it adds flavor and helps achieve that golden brown crust. Use enough butter to coat the outside of the bread, ensuring an even crispness.
Another tip is to choose your cheese wisely. Blending different cheeses, like mozzarella and sharp cheddar, can add a more complex flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the fillings too—add slices of fresh tomatoes or even some cooked bacon for an added taste boost.
Also, keep the heat at medium. Cooking over too high heat can burn the bread before the cheese melts. Lastly, pressing the sandwich down gently with a spatula while it cooks can help the cheese melt faster and create a crunchy texture.
variation
If you want to experiment, try adding roasted red peppers or caramelized onions to your sandwich. You can also use flavored pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto, for a unique twist. Additionally, consider using different bread types, like ciabatta or focaccia, for a different texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto is a quick and easy alternative to homemade pesto. Just make sure to choose a good quality brand for the best flavor.
Can I make this sandwich without cheese?
Sure! You can make a vegan version by using a plant-based cheese or skipping the cheese altogether. Just load it up with extra pesto and veggies.
How do I keep my grilled cheese from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, ensure the bread is properly toasted and don’t add too much pesto. Also, allow the sandwich to cool slightly before wrapping it or storing it.
Print
Pesto Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, combining rich melted cheese with aromatic pesto.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread (whole grain, sourdough, or white)
- Generous amount of pesto
- Slices of cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone)
- Butter for cooking
Instructions
- Spread pesto evenly on one slice of bread.
- Add slices of cheese on top of the pesto.
- Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter.
- Once the butter is melted and bubbling, place the sandwich in the skillet.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden brown.
- Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from skillet, let cool for a minute, then slice in half and enjoy!
Notes
Serve with a side salad or a warm bowl of tomato soup for a delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: grilled cheese, pesto, easy lunch, vegetarian sandwich, comfort food
