Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe
A deliciously gooey Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Grilled Cheese sandwich made with layers of provolone and fresh mozzarella cheeses, spread with savory sun-dried tomato pesto, and grilled to golden perfection. This easy-to-make comfort food twist combines the rich flavors of Italian pesto with crispy, buttery sourdough bread for the perfect indulgent lunch or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Grilled Cheese
- 4 slices sourdough bread or your favorite sturdy sandwich bread
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese (or additional provolone/cheddar)
- 4 tbsp sun-dried tomato pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Optional: fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay the 4 slices of bread on a clean work surface. Spread 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato pesto evenly on one side of two of the bread slices (these will be the bottom slices). Layer 2 slices of provolone cheese followed by 2 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto-covered bread slices. Place the remaining two plain bread slices on top to complete the sandwiches.
- Butter the Sandwiches: Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly on the outside of each assembled sandwich, covering both the top and bottom slices entirely. This ensures even browning and crispiness when cooked.
- Cook the Grilled Cheese: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Once hot, carefully place the buttered sandwiches in the skillet. Optionally, tuck a few fresh basil leaves inside before grilling or serve them on the side. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheeses are melted and gooey. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet once cooked. Let them cool for a minute or two before slicing diagonally in half. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For an extra crispy exterior, press down lightly on the sandwiches with a spatula while cooking.
- If your sun-dried tomato pesto is very oily, drain off some excess oil before spreading to prevent a greasy sandwich.
- Fresh basil leaves can add a fragrant note if tucked inside or served alongside.
- This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a hearty soup for a comforting meal.
Keywords: sun-dried tomato pesto grilled cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, sun-dried tomato pesto, mozzarella grilled cheese, easy lunch recipes, comfort food
