Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese (Printer-Friendly)

Crispy sourdough meets melty cheese and aromatic basil pesto in this golden, gourmet sandwich ready in just 20 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough bread
02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
03 - 4 slices mozzarella cheese
04 - 2 slices provolone cheese (optional)
05 - 2 slices cheddar cheese (optional)

→ Sauces & Add-Ons

06 - 2 to 3 tablespoons basil pesto, store-bought or homemade

# How to Make It:

01 - Spread butter evenly on one side of each sourdough bread slice.
02 - Lay two slices buttered side down on a clean work surface.
03 - Spread 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of basil pesto evenly across the unbuttered side of each base slice.
04 - Arrange mozzarella slices over the pesto, adding provolone and cheddar if desired for a more complex flavor profile.
05 - Place the remaining bread slices on top with the buttered side facing outward to complete each sandwich.
06 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat until evenly warmed.
07 - Cook each sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
08 - Remove from the pan and let rest for 1 to 2 minutes before slicing diagonally. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The tang of sourdough against rich pesto and gooey cheese is the kind of combination that makes you close your eyes at the first bite.
  • It takes almost no effort but tastes like something you would pay good money for at a cafe.
02 -
  • Cranking the heat too high will scorch the sourdough before the cheese has a chance to melt, so patience on medium low is everything.
  • Covering the pan with a lid for the first minute traps heat and helps the cheese melt faster without overbrowning the bread.
03 -
  • Grating your cheese instead of using slices creates a more even melt and lets you pack more cheese into every bite.
  • A light dusting of grated parmesan on the buttered outside of the bread forms an irresistibly crunchy savory crust.

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