Description
Gooey melted cheese meets zesty pesto in this mouthwatering Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich that elevates a classic comfort dish. Crispy golden bread and rich flavors promise a quick, delectable lunch you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese:
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
Bread:
- 4 slices sourdough or artisan bread
Condiments and Additions:
- 2 tablespoons pesto sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) arugula (optional)
- 2 slices tomato (optional)
Instructions
- Generously coat one side of each bread slice with softened butter, ensuring complete coverage.
- Flip bread pieces so unbuttered sides face up, then lavishly spread a vibrant layer of pesto across two slices.
- Arrange two generous mozzarella cheese slices atop the pesto-covered bread, creating a creamy foundation.
- For added freshness, delicately layer crisp arugula leaves and juicy tomato slices over the cheese.
- Crown the sandwich with remaining bread slices, positioning buttered surfaces outward for optimal grilling.
- Preheat a skillet to medium heat, allowing surface to warm evenly for approximately 2 minutes.
- Carefully transfer sandwiches to the heated skillet, cooking each side for 3-4 minutes until bread transforms into a golden, crispy exterior and cheese melts into a luxurious, gooey consistency.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute to allow cheese to stabilize, then slice diagonally and serve immediately while temperature and texture are at peak deliciousness.
Notes
- Choose fresh, high-quality pesto for the most vibrant flavor that elevates the entire sandwich.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like provolone or fontina for unique taste profiles.
- Use room temperature cheese to ensure even melting and prevent burning the bread while waiting for the center to warm up.
- Consider toasting the bread slightly before adding ingredients to create an extra crispy texture and prevent sogginess from pesto’s moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg