Save Rainy Tuesday afternoons were made for experimenting in the kitchen, and this sandwich happened completely by accident when I was staring at a half-empty jar of sun-dried tomato pesto. The way the pesto caramelizes against butter-toasted bread creates something entirely different from your average grilled cheese. My roommate walked in midway through cooking and demanded I make her one immediately.
I started making these during college when my budget was tight but my craving for something gourmet was not. Now, even with a fully stocked pantry, this remains my go-to comfort food. Something about the combination of warm bread and salty, umami-rich pesto just works every single time.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread: Sourdough holds up beautifully and adds a subtle tang that complements the pesto, though any sturdy bread will work
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato pesto: This is the star of the show, so use a good quality one or make your own if you have time
- 2 slices mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, but sliced deli mozzarella creates that perfect cheese pull we all want
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Buttering the bread instead of the pan creates an even golden crust and prevents soggy spots
Instructions
- Prep your bread canvas:
- Spread one tablespoon of pesto on one side of each bread slice, going all the way to the edges so every bite gets that flavor
- Build your masterpiece:
- Lay both slices pesto-side up, stack mozzarella on one slice, then top with the other bread slice, pesto sides facing inward toward the cheese
- Get your pan ready:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the butter, watching for it to melt and start foaming slightly
- The first golden flip:
- Place your sandwich in the foaming butter and let it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is deeply golden brown
- Finish to perfection:
- Carefully flip and cook another 3-4 minutes, pressing gently with your spatula, until both sides are golden and cheese is completely melted
Save This sandwich became a staple during my first apartment years, shared on balconies with friends and over kitchen counters with heartbroken roommates. Food has a way of making ordinary moments feel special.
Choosing Your Cheese
While mozzarella creates that classic melt, I have discovered that provolone adds a lovely sharpness, and fontina brings an incredible nuttiness. Do not be afraid to mix cheeses or add a sprinkle of Parmesan between the pesto and mozzarella layers.
Bread Matters More Than You Think
Thick-cut sourdough is my absolute favorite because it can handle the moisture from the pesto without getting soggy. Whole wheat works well if you want something heartier, while white bread creates that nostalgic grilled cheese experience from childhood.
Perfect Pairings
A steaming bowl of tomato soup is the classic choice, but a crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Sometimes I just serve it with some extra pickled vegetables on the side.
- Fresh basil leaves tucked inside add a bright, herbal note
- A thin layer of goat cheese mixed with the pesto creates an incredibly creamy texture
- Parmesan sprinkled on the outside before grilling adds a salty, crispy crust
Save Simple food made with care is often the most satisfying, and this sandwich proves that beautifully every single time.
Recipe FAQ
- → What bread works best for this?
Sourdough adds tangy crunch, whole wheat offers nuttiness, and white bread creates classic diner-style results. Choose based on your texture and flavor preferences.
- → Can I use different cheese?
Provolone brings sharpness, fontina adds nutty creaminess, or cheddar provides bold flavor. Any melting cheese works well with the pesto base.
- → How do I prevent soggy bread?
Keep heat at medium to allow even browning without burning. Don't press too hard while cooking, and let the sandwich rest 1 minute before slicing.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Assemble the sandwich and wrap tightly in plastic. Refrigerate up to 4 hours before grilling. Cook when ready for best texture and flavor.
- → What sides pair well?
Classic tomato soup creates a comforting duo, while a crisp green salad balances the richness. Pickles or potato chips add crunch and acidity.
- → Is this vegetarian?
Yes, when using vegetarian-friendly pesto and cheese. Check your pesto label to ensure it contains no animal-derived cheeses or anchovies.