Best Pesto Grilled Cheese

The Best Pesto Grilled Cheese is a melty, savory twist on a classic comfort food I can never get enough of. With gooey cheese, fragrant pesto, and golden, crispy bread, it’s the kind of sandwich that turns a simple lunch into something special. I love how just a few flavorful ingredients come together to create something so satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly quick, customizable, and packed with flavor. The basil pesto adds a rich, herby punch that pairs perfectly with melted cheese and crispy bread. It’s just as great for a quick solo lunch as it is for serving alongside soup or salad at dinnertime.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sliced bread (sourdough, Italian, or any sturdy bread)

• Basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)

• Mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced

• Parmesan or provolone cheese (optional, for more depth)

• Butter or olive oil (for toasting)

• Optional add-ins: sliced tomato, spinach, roasted red peppers

Directions

1. I spread pesto on one side of each bread slice.

2. I layer mozzarella (and any other cheese) on top of one pesto side, then close the sandwich with the second slice, pesto side in.

3. I butter the outer sides of the bread lightly for a golden crust.

4. I heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sandwich until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted—about 3–4 minutes per side.

5. I let it cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1–2 sandwiches.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 13 minutes

Variations

• I add fresh tomato slices or sun-dried tomatoes for extra brightness.

• For a heartier version, I add sliced grilled chicken or turkey.

• I mix in baby spinach or arugula for some greens.

• I swap the cheese for vegan alternatives to make it dairy-free.

• Sometimes I use ciabatta or focaccia for a bakery-style upgrade.

storage/reheating

This sandwich is best fresh, but I’ve stored leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day.
To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F until the cheese is melty again and the bread crisps up. I avoid the microwave to keep it from going soggy

FAQs

What cheese goes best with pesto?

Mozzarella is my favorite for its mild flavor and perfect melt, but provolone, fontina, or even sharp white cheddar all work well.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely. I just make sure it’s a good-quality pesto with fresh basil and real Parmesan for the best flavor.

What bread works best for grilled cheese?

I prefer sourdough or Italian bread because they get crispy without falling apart. Any thick-sliced, sturdy bread works great.

Can I make this sandwich in the oven?

Yes! I bake it at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Is there a way to make it vegan?

I use dairy-free cheese and vegan pesto (without Parmesan), and swap butter for olive oil or a plant-based spread. It still comes out crispy and delicious.

Conclusion

The Best Pesto Grilled Cheese is everything I love in a comfort meal—crispy, cheesy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether I’m keeping it classic or loading it with extras, this sandwich always delivers on taste and satisfaction. It’s my favorite way to elevate a grilled cheese into something unforgettable.