The Ultimate Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe
This Ultimate Pesto Grilled Cheese features thick slices of sourdough bread layered with fresh mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, crispy bacon, and vibrant pesto, all grilled to golden perfection. A gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich with rich flavors and gooey melted cheese, perfect for a comforting lunch or quick dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Bread & Cheese
- 8 small but thick slices of Sourdough Bread
- 3 x 4.5oz (125g) balls of Fresh Mozzarella, thinly sliced and patted dry
Fillings
- 8 Sun Dried Tomatoes, patted dry and diced
- 4 slices of Bacon, cooked and diced
- 4 heaped tbsp Pesto
Other
- Butter, as needed for spreading and frying
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Place two slices of sourdough bread in a frying pan with the heat off. Spread the exposed slice of bread with butter. Then flip the slices so the buttered side is down on the pan.
- Assemble the sandwich: On the buttered side facing up, layer 3 to 4 thin slices of fresh mozzarella, followed by one heaped tablespoon of pesto, then the diced sun-dried tomatoes and bacon. Add another layer of mozzarella on top.
- Add the top slice and press: Finish by placing another slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich. Press down firmly with your hands to contain the fillings and create a compact sandwich. Spread butter on the outside of the top slice as well.
- Cook the sandwich: Turn the stove to medium heat. Fry the sandwich on both sides until the bread turns golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is fully melted. Carefully flip to ensure even cooking without burning.
Notes
- For best results use thick slices of sourdough bread to hold the fillings well and prevent sogginess.
- Pat mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes dry to avoid excess moisture that can make the sandwich soggy.
- Make sure the bacon is cooked and diced before assembling. Crispy bacon adds nice texture.
- Control heat carefully to ensure the bread crisps without burning while the cheese melts thoroughly.
- You can substitute pesto with a flavored mayonnaise or mustard for variation.
Keywords: grilled cheese, pesto, sourdough bread, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, bacon, comfort food, sandwich
