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Ultimate Pesto Mozzarella Grilled Cheese

A gourmet twist on a classic, featuring gooey mozzarella, vibrant basil pesto, and a crispy, parmesan-crusted sourdough exterior.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 1 sandwich
Course: Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Sandwich Components
  • 2 slices thick-cut sourdough or artisan bread
  • 0.33 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese or fresh mozzarella patted dry
  • 2 tbsp basil pesto
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter softened, or mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese for the crust
  • 1 pinch fresh parsley or cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Spatula
  • Butter knife

Method
 

  1. Spread basil pesto evenly on the inside of both slices of bread.
  2. Heap the shredded mozzarella cheese onto one slice, over the pesto, and place the second slice on top.
  3. Butter the top exterior slice of the sandwich and sprinkle with a little parmesan cheese.
  4. Place the sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat, buttered side down.
  5. Butter the top side facing up, adding the rest of the parmesan.
  6. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then carefully flip.
  7. Cook the other side for 3-4 minutes until golden and cheese is completely melted. Slice and serve immediately.

Notes

Cook low and slow to ensure the cheese melts before the bread burns. You can cover the pan with a lid for a minute to help the cheese melt faster.