What to Serve With Pesto Grilled Cheese? Recipe
If you’ve ever wondered what to serve with pesto grilled cheese? you’re in for a treat because this sandwich isn’t just any grilled cheese—it’s a melty, aromatic masterpiece loaded with creamy mozzarella, savory bacon, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes. The pesto adds that herby, nutty punch, making it one of the most satisfying comfort foods out there. But the real magic happens when you pair it just right, elevating this already amazing sandwich into a full-on meal experience you’ll want to share with everyone you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this pesto grilled cheese is incredibly simple, yet each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the tang of sourdough bread to the richness of fresh mozzarella and the herbal brightness of pesto, everything combines perfectly for a sandwich that’s both crispy and ooey-gooey inside.
- 8 thick slices of sourdough bread: Ideal for sturdy grilling and that irresistible crispy crust.
- 3 balls fresh mozzarella (each 125g), sliced thin and dried: Melts beautifully and adds creamy richness.
- 8 sun-dried tomatoes, dried and chopped: Provide a sweet, intense burst of flavor that complements the cheese.
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and chopped: Adds a smoky, savory crunch that balances the pesto’s herbiness.
- 4 generous tablespoons pesto: The star ingredient that ties the sandwich together with fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts.
- Butter, as required: For that golden, crispy exterior that makes every bite so satisfying.
How to Make What to Serve With Pesto Grilled Cheese?
Step 1: Prepare the Sandwich Base
The first step is all about laying down the foundation for your grilled cheese masterpiece. Place two slices of bread in a cool frying pan—off the heat for now. Butter the top side of each slice generously, then flip them over so that the buttered side faces down, ready for the toppings. If you have a large pan, you can do this for four slices, making two sandwiches at once and speeding up your process.
Step 2: Add the Fillings
Now the fun begins. On each buttered bread slice in the pan, layer 3 to 4 thin slices of mozzarella for that creamy base. Dollop a heaping tablespoon of pesto over the cheese, allowing those fresh, bright flavors to shine. Next, scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and crispy bacon pieces on top. For an extra cheesy pull, add another layer of mozzarella cheese before topping it off with the second slice of bread, sandwiching all those ingredients deliciously together.
Step 3: Final Preparation Before Cooking
Press down on the sandwiches gently to compact the fillings so they won’t all spill out as you grill. Spread butter on the top sides of the bread, ensuring every outer surface has enough butter to crisp up beautifully in the pan.
Step 4: Cook the Sandwiches
Turn your burner to medium heat and let the pan slowly warm up with the sandwiches inside. Fry them until each side turns a gorgeous golden brown, flipping carefully to avoid losing any fillings. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese inside has melted perfectly, creating that gooey, irresistible interior we all crave.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the pan, give your sandwiches a moment to cool just slightly so the cheese isn’t scorching but still wonderfully melty. Then slice, serve, and prepare for pure comfort food bliss.
How to Serve What to Serve With Pesto Grilled Cheese?
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can make a big impact when thinking about what to serve with pesto grilled cheese. A handful of fresh arugula dressed lightly with lemon juice and olive oil adds a peppery, zesty crunch that balances the rich cheese and pesto. A sprinkle of fresh basil or cracked black pepper on top can also brighten the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Wondering about what to serve with pesto grilled cheese? The classic answer has to be a warm tomato soup. The tangy, savory soup perfectly complements the herby, cheesy sandwich, making them the ultimate comforting duo. For something a little different, crispy sweet potato fries bring a hint of natural sweetness and satisfying crunch. Roasted red pepper soup or a crisp cucumber salad are fantastic lighter options, while some tangy pickles or marinated vegetables are brilliant for cutting through the sandwich’s richness, especially if you’ve added bacon.
Creative Ways to Present
When serving, try cutting your grilled cheese sandwiches into fun shapes with cookie cutters or slicing them into small triangles for a casual, shareable platter. Pair the sandwich halves with small bowls of pesto or marinara sauce for dipping, or create a colorful side plate with complementary veggies and pickles to brighten the overall plate. Presentation can turn a simple meal into a festive experience that excites both eyes and palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover pesto grilled cheese, store them wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sandwich keeps well but is best reheated to regain that crispy, melty texture.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked assembled sandwiches by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, storing them for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking as usual. This is perfect for meal prepping or quick lunches.
Reheating
To reheat leftover grilled cheese, place it on a skillet over medium-low heat. This method warms the sandwich through and re-crisps the bread without drying out the cheese. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crispy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully with pesto, mild provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar can work well, depending on your flavor preference. Mixing cheeses can add interesting textures and tastes.
Is it better to make pesto from scratch or use store-bought?
Both are great options! Homemade pesto has a fresher flavor and can be adjusted to your taste, but high-quality store-bought pesto saves time and still adds plenty of flavor. Either way, pesto is the star here.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes, just omit the bacon and maybe add some roasted vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra umami. The pesto and mozzarella are already vegetarian-friendly, making this a tasty option without meat.
What bread works best for pesto grilled cheese?
Sourdough is fantastic because it has a sturdy crust and a slight tang which pairs wonderfully with the pesto. However, country white or whole grain bread can be used depending on your preference. Just choose a bread that grills up crisp without getting soggy.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Butter the bread generously and grill over medium heat slowly to ensure a crispy crust forms before the cheese melts. Pat the mozzarella slices dry to remove excess moisture, and don’t overload with wet ingredients like pesto or tomatoes to keep the sandwich perfectly crisp.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide has made you feel confident and excited about your next pesto grilled cheese experience. Knowing what to serve with pesto grilled cheese? will take your meal from good to absolutely fantastic. Whether you go classic with tomato soup or get creative with crispy fries and fresh salads, this sandwich is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, fire up that pan, and get ready to savor every gooey, herby, crunchy bite you deserve!
