Pesto and Mozzarella Grilled Cheese Sandwich at Home

Pesto + mozzarella = satisfying!

This is not anything new. However, from-scratch basil pesto plus fresh mozzarella sandwiched between buttery golden brown sourdough is striking.

I first made this 12+ years ago while my go-to friend and her son were over hanging out with me and the girls. While we were sitting at the table devouring our sandwiches, I casually mentioned the sandwich needing a name. Vito looked at me and said ever so nonchalantly “how about The Special?” And from that moment that is what we call it. I think it fits because it’s pretty darn special alright.

So here’s to Vito for coming up with a reliable name for this solid grilled cheese!

To cook this Pesto and Mozzarella Grilled Cheese Sandwich Gather:

• sourdough bread – Sliced Italian bread can also be used.
• butter – Salted butter is dependable for making grilled cheese.
• basil pesto – Kitchen-made or store-bought can be used.
• fresh mozzarella – Regular shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese can also be used.

Spoon 1 tablespoon of basil pesto onto the inside of 4 slices of sourdough bread.

Thinly spread the pesto in an even layer using the back of your spoon.

Thinly slice up your fresh mozzarella or use pre-sliced if you like it extra cheesy (this is me). Depending on the size of your bread, top one side of the pesto-slathered bread with 2 to 3 slices of cheese. You may have some left over mozzarella but that is meant for snacking on!

Top with the second slice of pesto sourdough.

Melt 1-1/2 tablespoons salted butter in a skillet or griddle over medium to medium-low heat.

Once the butter has melted, place the sandwiches into the pan and cover with a lid. This will trap the steam and help melt the cheese faster.

Once the underneath is golden to your preference (obviously I like it a deep golden color on the verge of being slightly burnt). Add the remaining 1-1/2 tablespoons of butter, once melted (should take seconds), carefully flip the sandwiches.

Use a serrated knife to cut in half.

Serve immediately!

This sandwich is even more satisfying when you add sliced tomato as well!

Enjoy! And if you give this Grilled Pesto and Mozzarella Sandwich recipe a try, let me know! Snap a photo and tag me on twitter or instagram!