Effortless Pesto Grilled Cheese (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
4 tablespoons basil pesto (use your favorite store-bought or whip up your own)
02 -
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or use 4 slices of fresh mozzarella instead)
03 -
4 slices of rustic bread (sourdough is fantastic for this)
04 -
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional for a stronger cheesy kick)
05 -
2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter
# Instructions:
01 -
Take your bread and slather one side of each slice with about a tablespoon of pesto. Spread it all the way out to the edges so you get that herby taste in every bite.
02 -
Place the pesto-coated sides of two slices of bread facing up. Add a good amount of shredded mozzarella (or the fresh slices) on top. Feel like going all out? Sprinkle Parmesan for extra flavor. Top with the other slices of bread, pesto-side down so they hug the cheese.
03 -
Take your butter and spread it thinly over the outer surfaces of the sandwiches. Cover every corner so you'll get that nice crunchy, golden texture when cooked.
04 -
Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, carefully put the sandwiches down. Press gently with a spatula as they cook for around 2-3 minutes. Flip them once they turn golden and do the same on the other side until cheese oozes out deliciously.
05 -
Move them onto a cutting board, slice them diagonally into triangles for that fancy touch, and eat up while they're hot and cheesy.
# Notes:
01 -
This is way more than just a grilled cheese—the pesto brings in a fresh zesty burst that'll wow your tastebuds alongside the melted cheese.
02 -
Want to make it even fancier? Swap plain butter for garlic butter on the outside—it’s pure indulgence.
03 -
Feel free to toss in extras like tomato slices, spinach leaves, or drizzle some balsamic glaze before serving.