Save Pin Rain was pounding against my kitchen window last Tuesday when I realized I had nothing substantial for lunch. I rifled through the pantry and found a jar of sun-dried tomato pesto hiding behind the cereal boxes, that impulse buy from months ago. Something about combining that intense, tangy spread with melted mozzarella just clicked. Ten minutes later, I was pulling the most gorgeous golden sandwich off the stove, and honestly, it is become my go-to comfort food ever since.
My roommate walked in just as I was slicing the sandwich open, steam curling up from the molten cheese center. She stood there watching me take that first bite, the crunch echoing through our tiny kitchen, and immediately demanded I make her one too. Now we have a standing agreement that whoever discovers the other person making these gets a sandwich of their own. Some foods are just meant to be shared.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread: Sourdough creates the best crunch and holds up beautifully against the pesto, but whatever you have in your bread box will work perfectly fine
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato pesto: This is the star of the show so use a good quality one, and do not be shy about spreading it generously
- 2 slices mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts like a dream, but sliced deli mozzarella actually gives you that classic cheese pull effect
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Buttering the pan instead of the bread gives you more control over even browning and prevents soggy spots
Instructions
- Spread the pesto:
- Layer one tablespoon of sun-dried tomato pesto on each slice of bread, going all the way to the edges so every bite gets that tangy flavor
- Build your sandwich:
- Place mozzarella slices on one pesto-covered piece, then top with the second slice, pesto side facing inward toward the cheese
- Heat the pan:
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, watching for it to foam slightly which tells you it is ready for the bread
- Grill to perfection:
- Carefully place the sandwich in the butter and cook for about four minutes until golden, then flip and press gently with your spatula while the second side gets equally crispy
Save Pin I served these at a casual dinner party once alongside a simple tomato soup, and my friend actually stopped mid conversation to tell me this was the best grilled cheese of her life. Sometimes the simplest combinations are the ones that stick with people longest.
Bread Choices That Work Best
After testing this recipe with probably ten different bread types, I have learned that sturdy breads with some structure give the most satisfying results. Sourdough is my personal favorite because the tangy fermentation complements the sun-dried tomatoes perfectly, but a good country white or hearty whole wheat will not let you down either.
Cheese Variations to Try
While mozzarella creates that gorgeous melt we all love, mixing in some provolone adds a sharp bite that cuts through the richness. Fontina brings this incredible nuttiness that pairs unexpectedly well with the tomato pesto, and honestly, a little Parmesan grated into the sandwich before cooking creates this salty crust that is addictive.
Serving Suggestions and Easy Upgrades
This sandwich holds its own as a complete meal, but adding a few fresh basil leaves inside before grilling brightens everything up. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like heat, or maybe some thinly sliced red onion for crunch. I have even added a layer of fresh spinach when I needed to convince myself it was a balanced lunch.
- Tomato soup is obviously the classic pairing but a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully
- These reheat surprisingly well in a 350 degree oven for about ten minutes if you are meal prepping
- Consider making extra pesto because you will want to put it on everything after tasting this sandwich
Save Pin There is something deeply comforting about a perfectly made grilled cheese, the kind of food that makes any bad day feel a little more manageable. I hope this becomes one of those recipes you turn to without even thinking.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
Sourdough provides excellent structure and tangy flavor, while whole wheat adds nuttiness. White bread offers classic comfort. Choose any sturdy slice that can hold the melted cheese without getting soggy.
- → Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely. Store-bought sun-dried tomato pesto works perfectly. Look for brands with authentic ingredients like oil-packed tomatoes, garlic, and nuts. You can also make your own by blending sun-dried tomatoes with nuts, oil, and seasonings.
- → How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Spread pesto on the interior sides only, not the exterior. The butter goes on the outside to create that crispy golden crust. Also, ensure your skillet is properly preheated before adding the sandwich to seal the bread quickly.
- → What other cheeses pair well with sun-dried tomato pesto?
Provolone adds sharpness, fontina offers nutty creaminess, gruyere brings depth, or sharp cheddar provides bold contrast. You can also blend mozzarella with another cheese for more complex flavor profiles.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Yes. Use vegan butter or olive oil for cooking, choose plant-based mozzarella slices or shreds, and ensure your pesto contains no cheese or opt for a vegan pesto version. The result remains satisfying and flavorful.
- → What should I serve alongside this sandwich?
Tomato soup creates a classic comforting pairing. A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Roasted vegetables or a light soup also complement the bold flavors beautifully.