Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

Thick-cut sourdough with aromatic basil pesto and a blend of melty cheeses, grilled until golden and crisp.

# What You'll Need:

→ Bread

01 - 4 slices thick-cut sourdough bread

→ Cheese

02 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
03 - 1/2 cup shredded fontina cheese
04 - 1/2 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese

→ Spreads & Condiments

05 - 3 tablespoons basil pesto
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# How To Make:

01 - Lay out the sourdough slices and spread 1/2 tablespoon of butter on one side of each slice.
02 - Flip the bread over and spread approximately 1 tablespoon of basil pesto on the unbuttered side of two slices.
03 - Evenly distribute the mozzarella, fontina, and cheddar cheese over the pesto-covered slices.
04 - Top with the remaining bread slices with the buttered side facing outward.
05 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
06 - Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden and crisp and the cheese is fully melted.
07 - Remove from the pan, let cool for 1 minute, then slice diagonally and serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The combination of three different cheeses creates an incredibly melty, complex flavor that you just cannot get from using one cheese alone
  • That aromatic basil pesto cuts through the richness and adds this bright, fresh element that makes each bite sing
  • Sourdough bread holds up beautifully to grilling, giving you this perfect contrast between crispy exterior and soft, cheesy interior
02 -
  • Low and slow is the key to perfectly melted cheese without burning the bread, so resist the urge to crank up the heat
  • Shredding your own cheese makes a huge difference in how evenly it melts compared to pre-shredded varieties
  • Letting the sandwiches rest for that full minute after cooking prevents the cheese from oozing out when you cut them
03 -
  • Mayonnaise can be used instead of butter on the exterior bread for an even crispier result and easier spreading
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, as it distributes heat more evenly and creates the most beautiful golden crust
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