A quick and tasty warm sandwich with pesto and gooey cheese.
Introduction
This Pesto Grilled Cheese is fast and simple. It uses bread, cheese, and pesto to make a bright, melty sandwich. You can try a different grilled-cheese idea like the grilled cheese burrito gone viral for another fun meal.
Why make this recipe
- It is quick to cook in 10 minutes.
- The pesto adds fresh flavor without fuss.
- Kids and adults like melted cheese and a crisp outside.
How to make Pesto Grilled Cheese
Ingredients :
2 slices of bread, 2 slices of cheese (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone), 2 tablespoons of pesto, Butter or olive oil for grilling
Directions :
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Spread butter or olive oil on one side of each slice of bread.
- On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread the pesto.
- Place the cheese on top of the pesto, then top with the other slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from skillet, slice, and serve warm.
For a different twist, you can use a recipe like the cottage cheese flatbread recipe to inspire other ways to add cheese.
How to serve Pesto Grilled Cheese
Serve warm and cut in half. Pair it with a small salad, tomato soup, or raw veggies. It is best hot so the cheese stays melty.
How to store Pesto Grilled Cheese
Store a cooled sandwich in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep the bread crisp. Do not freeze a cooked sandwich — the texture will change.
Tips to make Pesto Grilled Cheese
- Use room-temperature cheese so it melts faster.
- Cook on medium heat to brown the bread without burning.
- Add a thin layer of mayo instead of butter for extra crisp.
- Press gently with a spatula while grilling to help the cheese melt.
Variation
- Add sliced tomato or cooked chicken for more substance.
- Use different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella for milder taste.
- Try basil or sun-dried tomato pesto for new flavors.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A: Yes. Store-bought pesto works well and saves time.
Q: What bread is best?
A: Any sandwich bread works. Sourdough or a crusty white bread gives extra flavor.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes. Use vegan cheese and vegan butter or oil, and choose a vegan pesto.
Q: How do I get the cheese fully melted?
A: Keep the heat at medium and cover the skillet for a minute to trap heat and melt the cheese.
Q: Can I add herbs or spices?
A: Yes. A pinch of pepper or dried oregano works well.
Conclusion
For a classic take, you can see another simple recipe idea at The Ultimate Pesto Grilled Cheese | Something About Sandwiches, which shows more ways to enjoy pesto and cheese. For more recipe variations and user-tested tips, check Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe on Allrecipes.
Pesto Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 slices slices of bread Any sandwich bread works well, sourdough or a crusty white bread gives extra flavor.
- 2 slices slices of cheese Cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone are great options.
- 2 tablespoons pesto Store-bought pesto can be used for convenience.
- as needed Butter or olive oil For grilling the sandwich.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Spread butter or olive oil on one side of each slice of bread.
- On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread the pesto.
- Place the cheese on top of the pesto, then top with the other slice of bread, buttered side up.
Cooking
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from skillet, slice, and serve warm.