The Best Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe Ever Made

Melted cheese and herby basil pesto create a mouthwatering combination in this incredible pesto grilled cheese sandwich that elevates the classic comfort food.

Every bite promises a burst of rich, creamy flavors that dance across your palate.

Sharp cheddar and smooth mozzarella melt into golden, crispy bread with a generous spread of vibrant green pesto.

The secret lies in selecting high-quality ingredients and mastering the perfect golden-brown technique.

Crisp edges and a gooey interior make this sandwich irresistible for lunch or a quick dinner.

Prepare to transform your grilled cheese game with this delectable twist on a beloved classic.

Grab a plate and savor every delicious moment.

Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich Quick Gourmet Twist

• Savor Flavor Fusion: Combines classic grilled cheese with zesty pesto, creating a gourmet twist on a comfort food favorite that elevates taste buds.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows adding or skipping bacon, swapping cheese types, and adjusting ingredients to suit personal preferences and dietary needs.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Requires minimal preparation and cooking skills, making it perfect for busy individuals seeking a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Appeals to both kids and adults, transforming a simple sandwich into a crowd-pleasing dish that works for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings.

Pesto Grilled Cheese Ingredient List

• Bread Slices: A soft, sturdy base that will be transformed into a crispy, golden sandwich carrier.

• Mozzarella Cheese: A mild, melty cheese that creates a smooth, creamy texture in the sandwich.
• Bacon: A crispy, optional protein that adds a smoky and salty flavor to the sandwich.

• Pesto: A vibrant, herbal sauce that brings a fresh and aromatic dimension to the grilled cheese.
• Tomatoes: Juicy slices that provide a light, tangy contrast to the rich cheese and bacon.
• Butter: A golden ingredient that helps achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior on the bread.

Making Pesto Grilled Cheese Step By Step

Step 1: Sizzle the Bacon (Optional)

Place bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat.

Cook until crispy and perfectly golden, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Reserve the delicious bacon grease in the pan for extra flavor.

• Bacon strips

Step 2: Build Flavor-Packed Sandwich

Generously spread pesto on one side of each bread slice.

• Mozzarella cheese
• Fresh tomato slices
• Crispy bacon (if using)

Top with remaining bread slices, positioning pesto side down.

• Bread slices
• Pesto
• Mozzarella cheese
• Tomato slices
• Cooked bacon

Step 3: Grill to Golden Perfection

Heat skillet with bacon grease (or use a clean pan) over medium heat.

Butter the outer sides of sandwiches and place in hot pan, butter side facing down.

Cook until achieving a gorgeous golden-brown color, approximately 3-4 minutes.

• Butter

Step 4: Flip and Complete

Spread additional butter on the top side of sandwiches.

Carefully flip and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes.

Wait until bread turns crispy and cheese melts completely.

Allow sandwich to rest briefly before slicing and serving.

Tips For Crispy Pesto Grilled Cheese

• Use cold skillet method for evenly cooked, perfectly crispy bacon without burning.
• Apply a thick layer of pesto for maximum flavor burst in every bite of the sandwich.
• Maintain medium heat to achieve golden-brown exterior and melted cheese without burning bread.
• Place mozzarella closest to bread for faster melting and better cheese texture.
• Cover entire outer surface with butter for consistent, crispy, and evenly toasted sandwich edges.

Grilled Cheese Filling Swaps For Pesto Fans

• Vegetarian Pesto Melt: Replace bacon with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted red peppers for a hearty vegetarian version that keeps the sandwich's rich flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Green Sandwich: Use gluten-free bread and ensure pesto contains no wheat-based ingredients for a celiac-friendly alternative that maintains the original's delicious essence.
• Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Swap mozzarella for feta cheese and add kalamata olives with fresh spinach leaves to create a Greek-inspired variation with tangy Mediterranean notes.
• Vegan Cheese Transformation: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives, plant-based pesto, and skip bacon to craft a completely vegan sandwich that still delivers incredible taste and texture.

Serving Pesto Grilled Cheese Melty Hot

• Flavor Explosion Plate: Serve with a small side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy sandwich.
• Dipping Delight: Prepare a quick marinara or garlic aioli sauce for extra flavor and moisture when dunking each crispy sandwich bite.
• Comfort Companion: Pair with a warm tomato soup, creating a classic comfort food combination that warms both body and soul.
• Wine Weekend Upgrade: Choose a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Sauvignon Blanc to complement the pesto and cheese flavors.

Pesto Grilled Cheese Storage For Later

• Store any remaining pesto grilled cheese sandwich in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent moisture.
• Warm the sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat for the best texture, which helps restore the crispy bread and melty cheese. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the bread soggy and compromise the sandwich's quality.
• Prepare sandwiches, cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet for optimal taste and texture.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of bread for this pesto grilled cheese?

You can use any sturdy bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or whole wheat. Just ensure the bread is thick enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.

• Is homemade pesto better than store-bought?

Homemade pesto offers fresher flavor, but high-quality store-bought pesto works perfectly fine. Choose a pesto with vibrant green color and rich aroma for best results.

• How can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also include additional cheese to boost protein.

Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Gourmet pesto grilled cheese sandwich delivers Italian-inspired comfort with crispy golden bread and melted mozzarella. Herbal basil pesto and creamy cheese create a luxurious twist on classic comfort food you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Sandwich Base:

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 2 vine-ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced

Optional Protein:

• 4 slices bacon

Flavor and Spread Enhancers:

• 2 tablespoons basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

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Instructions

1. If using bacon, place strips in a cold skillet over medium heat. Cook until crisp and golden, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve the rendered bacon fat in the pan.
2. Spread pesto generously on one side of each bread slice. Arrange mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and crispy bacon (if desired) on two bread slices.
3. Cover with remaining bread slices, positioning the pesto-coated side facing inward. Press gently to ensure a compact sandwich.
4. Return skillet to medium heat with residual bacon fat or use a clean pan. Butter the exterior of each sandwich thoroughly.
5. Place sandwiches in the heated skillet, butter side down. Grill for 3-4 minutes until achieving a deep golden-brown crust and cheese begins to melt.
6. Carefully flip sandwiches, applying additional butter to the top surface. Continue cooking 2-3 minutes until bread turns crispy and cheese becomes completely melted.
7. Remove from heat, let sandwiches rest for 1-2 minutes to allow cheese to set. Slice diagonally and serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Notes

• Use room temperature cheese for smoother melting and even distribution throughout the sandwich.
• Swap bacon with prosciutto or turkey for a lighter protein option that adds crispy texture.
• Select sturdy bread like sourdough or ciabatta to prevent sogginess and maintain structural integrity during grilling.
• If avoiding dairy, replace mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives made from nuts or soy for similar creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 1000mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg