This grilled cheese takes a tasty twist with pesto and mozzarella! It’s super simple to make and perfect for lunch. Just imagine melty cheese with herby goodness!
You can’t go wrong with crispy bread and oozing mozzarella. Sometimes I make it for an after-school snack. Pair it with tomato soup, and you’ve got a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I love using rustic bread like ciabatta or sourdough for a crispy crust. If you want a lighter option, try whole wheat or even gluten-free bread!
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese is key for that creamy, melty texture. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use regular mozzarella cheese or even a mix of cheeses like provolone or Havarti for a different flavor.
Pesto Sauce: You can use store-bought pesto for convenience, or make your own with basil, garlic, nuts, and oil. If you’re avoiding nuts, try a nut-free pesto recipe! You could also substitute with sun-dried tomato spread for a tangy twist.
Tomato: Fresh tomatoes add juiciness and flavor. Cherry tomatoes work great too—just slice them in half. If tomatoes aren’t your thing, you might skip them or add some sliced avocado for creaminess.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Cheese?
Grilling the cheese just right can be tricky! Here are some tips to help you get a crispy, golden exterior while ensuring the cheese melts perfectly inside.
- Always preheat your pan so the bread cooks evenly.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese has time to melt.
- Keep an eye on the sandwiches and flip them gently to check for golden color.
- Feel free to press down a little with a spatula for even grilling!
With these tips and ingredient swaps, you’re ready to make an amazing grilled cheese sandwich that suits your taste!
Easy Pesto Mozzarella Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sandwich:
- 8 slices of rustic or Italian bread (such as ciabatta or sourdough)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/3 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened (for spreading on bread)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled cheese takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 8 minutes of cooking time. So, you’re looking at around 18 minutes from start to finish for a comforting and yummy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Pan:
Start by preheating a grill pan or a skillet over medium heat. This will help to give your sandwich that nice, crispy crust.
2. Butter the Bread:
Take your slices of bread and spread butter evenly on one side of each slice. This will give your grilled cheese its crispy, golden exterior.
3. Add the Pesto:
Now, flip the bread slices over, so the unbuttered side is up. Spread a good amount of pesto sauce on each of these sides. Get it nice and even!
4. Layer Your Ingredients:
On four of the slices (the ones with pesto), layer the fresh mozzarella slices and then add the thinly sliced tomato on top. This adds a beautiful freshness to your sandwich.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Take the remaining four bread slices (that just have pesto on them) and place them on top of the cheesy and tomato-covered slices. Make sure the buttered side is facing out on both sides!
6. Grill the Sandwiches:
Carefully place the sandwiches on the heated pan. Grill them until the bread is golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on that color!
7. Flip and Finish Grilling:
With a spatula, gently flip the sandwiches over. Grill the other side until it’s beautifully golden and the mozzarella is all melty, which should take another 3-4 minutes.
8. Slice and Serve:
Remove the sandwiches from the heat and let them sit for a minute. This allows everything to settle. Then, slice them in half and serve. Enjoy your deliciously creamy and herb-filled grilled cheese!
Enjoy your flavorful, crispy grilled cheese with the fresh herbiness of pesto and gooey mozzarella!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and can still deliver fantastic flavor. Just choose a high-quality brand for the best results!
What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, feel free to substitute it with shredded mozzarella or even a blend of cheeses like provolone and Havarti. Just ensure that it melts well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within 1-2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, so they stay crispy!
Can I Make This Sandwich Without Tomatoes?
Definitely! If tomatoes aren’t your thing, you can leave them out. You can also try adding slices of avocado or roasted red peppers for a delicious twist!
