Gourmet Pesto Grilled Cheese

This gourmet pesto grilled cheese sandwich transforms the humble comfort food classic into something extraordinary. The combination of creamy mozzarella with aromatic basil pesto and juicy tomatoes creates a flavor explosion that's both familiar and exciting. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of crispy exterior and gooey, melty interior.

I first made these sandwiches during a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but satisfying. My family was so impressed they requested them three times the following week. Now it's our go-to comfort food with an elevated twist.

Ingredients

• Sourdough bread The sturdy texture and slight tanginess creates the perfect foundation. Look for a loaf with a good crust that will stand up to grilling.
• Fresh mozzarella Its mild creaminess melts beautifully. Choose a high-quality ball packed in water for the best flavor and texture.
• Basil pesto The star ingredient that elevates this sandwich. Homemade is best but a good store-bought version works wonderfully too.
• Vine-ripe tomatoes Their juicy sweetness balances the richness. Select firm tomatoes with vibrant color for optimal flavor.
• Butter Creates that golden crust we all crave. Use unsalted so you can control the overall saltiness.
• Bacon Optional but adds incredible smoky depth. Look for thick-cut for the best texture and flavor contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the bacon

Cook bacon in a cold skillet turned to medium heat until perfectly crispy. This slow-start method allows the fat to render gradually for evenly cooked bacon. Reserve that liquid gold bacon grease in the pan for an extra layer of flavor in your sandwiches.

Assemble the sandwiches

Spread that vibrant green pesto on the inner sides of each bread slice. Layer the fresh mozzarella and tomato slices evenly, then add the crispy bacon if using. The key is even distribution so every bite has all the flavors. Cap with the second slice of bread, pesto side facing inward.

Begin the grilling process

Heat your skillet with the reserved bacon grease over medium heat. Butter the exterior of each sandwich, then place butter-side down in the hot pan. The sizzle should be gentle not aggressive. Press lightly with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan surface.

Complete the cooking

After achieving that perfect golden crust on the first side, about 3-4 minutes, butter the top slice and execute a careful flip. Continue cooking until the second side is equally golden and the cheese has reached that ideal melty consistency, roughly 2-3 minutes more. Allow a brief rest before slicing to keep the molten cheese from escaping.

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The basil pesto truly transforms this sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary. I discovered this recipe after growing too much basil in my garden one summer. My daughter, who normally picks ingredients out of sandwiches, devoured the entire thing and declared it better than restaurant food.

Perfect Pesto Selection

Store-bought pesto varies dramatically in quality and flavor profile. Look for versions with real Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and minimal additives. The color should be vibrant green rather than olive-toned, indicating fresher basil was used. Alternatively, make your own by blending 2 cups fresh basil, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 2 garlic cloves, 1/2 cup olive oil, and 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan. This homemade version elevates the sandwich to new heights and stores well for about a week.

Cheese Considerations

While fresh mozzarella creates that Instagram-worthy cheese pull, other cheeses work beautifully in this recipe. A combination of provolone and fontina offers complex flavor with excellent meltability. For a sharper profile, mix in some aged white cheddar. Whatever cheese you choose, bring it to room temperature before assembling the sandwich for optimal melting. Grating harder cheeses rather than slicing them promotes even melting and prevents cold spots in your sandwich.

Serving Suggestions

These sandwiches pair beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. The peppery greens and bright acidity cut through the richness perfectly. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a cup of roasted tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience. During summer months, I love serving these with a side of pickled vegetables that provide a tangy contrast to the creamy sandwich. Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces like balsamic glaze or spicy aioli for guests to customize their experience.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What's the best bread to use for this sandwich?

Crusty, artisan-style sourdough bread works best as it provides excellent structure and doesn't get soggy when grilled. Soft sandwich bread can become too moist from the tomatoes and pesto.

→ Can I make this sandwich without bacon?

Absolutely! The bacon is listed as optional in the ingredients. The sandwich is delicious with just the mozzarella, pesto, and tomatoes. If omitting bacon, use butter or olive oil in the pan instead of bacon grease.

→ How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Pat the fresh mozzarella dry with paper towels before using to remove excess moisture. Also, don't slice the tomatoes too thick, and consider placing the cheese next to the bread to create a barrier between the bread and tomatoes.

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly fine. Choose a high-quality option for best results, or make your own fresh basil pesto if you have the ingredients on hand.

→ What can I serve with this sandwich?

This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, tomato soup, or a side of sweet potato fries. For a lighter option, serve with fresh fruit or a small cup of gazpacho in summer months.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the bacon and slice the cheese and tomatoes in advance, then assemble and grill just before serving for the optimal melty, crispy experience.