Pesto Mozzarella Grilled Cheese

Savor the irresistible blend of basil pesto and mozzarella in every bite of this crispy, golden grilled cheese sandwich. Softened butter ensures a crunchy exterior, while fresh or shredded mozzarella provides melty texture against the bright notes of pesto. Parmesan adds a savory layer if desired. Each step, from prepping the bread to grilling, yields a comforting handmade classic with a flavorful twist. Perfect for a satisfying lunch, snack, or quick dinner served hot from the skillet.

sana kitchen chef
By Sana Sana
Updated on Fri, 25 Jul 2025 16:12:57 GMT
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with pesto and mozzarella cheese. Pin it
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with pesto and mozzarella cheese. | recipebyme.com

When you want a grilled cheese with a little something extra this pesto mozzarella version delivers every time The pesto brings a punch of herby flavor while the gooey mozzarella stretches are irresistible This combo has saved countless lunches at my house when I need something quick cozy and sure to impress

I still remember making this on a rainy Saturday It turned an ordinary grilled cheese into an instant favorite my family now asks for on repeat

Ingredients

  • Sourdough or sturdy bread: Brings crunch and structure Look for slices with deep grain flavor
  • Basil pesto: Fresh or store bought makes all the difference High quality olive oil and lots of basil give the best pesto punch
  • Mozzarella cheese: Choose fresh mozzarella for creaminess or shredded for even melt Look for whole milk mozzarella for flavor
  • Unsalted butter: Soft butter ensures an ultra crisp and flavorful crust on the bread
  • Parmesan cheese: Optional but amps up the savory factor Use a wedge and grate it yourself for peak freshness

Instructions

Prepare the Bread:
Spread one tablespoon of pesto on one side of each bread slice Take your time to coat right to the edges so every bite has pesto flavor
Assemble the Sandwiches:
On two of the bread slices pesto side up pile on about three quarters cup of shredded mozzarella or use two slices of fresh mozzarella If you want extra flavor sprinkle a tablespoon of grated Parmesan on each Add the last two bread slices pesto side down pressing lightly to make a neat stack
Butter the Outside of the Bread:
Using a small spatula or knife coat the outer side of each sandwich with softened unsalted butter A thin even layer creates the best golden crust when toasted
Grill the Sandwiches:
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat Place the sandwiches in the pan Press gently with a spatula Cook for two to three minutes per side Adjust heat as needed so the bread turns deeply golden brown and the cheese melts fully
Serve:
Transfer to a cutting board Slice in half while hot Serve immediately for the full gooey cheese experience
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with herbs on top, served on a white plate.
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with herbs on top, served on a white plate. | recipebyme.com

Of all the ingredients basil pesto is my favorite The color and aroma fill my kitchen and my youngest daughter dances around the table when she spots that jar

Storage Tips

Wrap leftovers in foil and store in the fridge Reheat in a toaster oven to bring the bread back to its original crispiness Never microwave or the mozzarella can get rubbery I have had this sandwich taste almost as good the next day

Ingredient Substitutions

Try swapping mozzarella for provolone or a blend of cheeses for more flavor If fresh basil is on hand you can make your own quick pesto You can even use a dairyfree butter to make a vegan version by using plantbased cheese

Serving Suggestions

Serve with tomato soup for the ultimate comfort lunch This sandwich also pairs well with a light arugula salad and a sprinkle of chili flakes for grownups If making for a party cut into smaller triangles for flavorful finger food

Cultural and Historical Context

Grilled cheese has long been a comfort food in many countries This pesto twist borrows from Italian flavors and the classic American sandwich The result bridges the familiar with a subtle gourmet upgrade

Seasonal Adaptations

Add sun dried tomatoes for a summer spin Use a nut free pesto if allergies are an issue Experiment with whole wheat bread in the fall Crispy on the outside melty in the middle and bursting with herb flavor this grilled cheese adapts to whatever you have in the pantry

Success Stories

A friend made these for her book club using store pesto Everyone asked for the recipe and now it is their monthly potluck tradition My neighbor adds a layer of prosciutto for extra savoriness and swears it is her go to fast dinner

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble the sandwiches and wrap tightly in parchment and foil Freeze for up to a month To serve thaw briefly and grill straight from the freezer on mediumlow until golden and hot throughout The cheese stays melty and fresh

A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with herbs on top.
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with herbs on top. | recipebyme.com

One thing I learned the hard way is to resist pressing the sandwich too much or you lose all those glorious cheese strings

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of bread works best?

Sourdough or any crusty bread delivers a sturdy, golden crust and holds up well during grilling.

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought or homemade basil pesto both infuse the sandwich with vibrant herb flavor.

→ Is fresh or shredded mozzarella better?

Both work! Fresh mozzarella melts smoothly, while shredded offers even distribution and a gooey center.

→ How do I get a crispy crust?

Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich and grill over medium heat for golden crispiness.

→ What extras can I add?

Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty punch. Try tomato slices or spinach for variety and extra flavor.

Pesto Mozzarella Grilled Cheese

Gooey mozzarella melts with basil pesto and buttery bread for a golden, flavorful sandwich.

Prep Time
7 min
Cook Time
6 min
Total Time
13 min
By Sana: Sana

Category: ~

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 2 Servings (Makes 2 sandwiches)

Dietary Categories: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Main

01 4 slices sourdough bread or other crusty bread
02 4 tablespoons basil pesto
03 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese or 4 slices fresh mozzarella
04 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Optional

05 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps

Step 01

Spread 1 tablespoon of basil pesto evenly over one side of each bread slice.

Step 02

On two bread slices, pesto side up, layer shredded mozzarella or fresh mozzarella slices. For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the mozzarella. Top with the remaining bread slices, pesto side down, to enclose the filling.

Step 03

Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the outside of each sandwich to ensure crisp browning during grilling.

Step 04

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 05

Remove sandwiches from skillet, cut in half, and serve immediately while warm and melty.

Notes

  1. Use freshly grated Parmesan and fresh mozzarella for optimal flavor and melt.

Required Equipment

  • Non-stick skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Bread knife

Allergen Information

Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Contains dairy and gluten due to cheese and bread.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

This data is provided as a guide and doesn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 520
  • Fats: 31 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Proteins: 23 g