Save A vibrant twist on the classic grilled cheese, featuring melted mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil pesto, and a crispy golden crust perfect for a gourmet lunch or light dinner.
This grilled cheese has quickly become my go-to for a satisfying yet simple meal that impresses every time.
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Ingredients
- Bread & Dairy: 4 slices country-style or sourdough bread, 4 oz (115 g) fresh mozzarella cheese sliced, 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- Vegetables & Condiments: 1 large ripe tomato sliced, 2 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade), Fresh basil leaves handful
- Seasoning: Pinch of sea salt, Freshly ground black pepper
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Instructions
- Spread Pesto:
- Spread basil pesto evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Layer Cheese:
- Layer half the mozzarella slices onto two of the bread slices on the pesto side.
- Add Tomato and Basil:
- Top with tomato slices, a few fresh basil leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Complete Sandwich:
- Add the remaining mozzarella slices over the tomatoes and cover with the remaining bread slices pesto side down.
- Butter Sides:
- Butter the outer sides of each sandwich.
- Preheat Pan:
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Cook Panini:
- Place the sandwiches in the panini press or skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread is golden and the cheese melted, pressing down if using a skillet.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.
Save My family loves gathering around the kitchen as I prepare this panini, instantly making dinner feel special.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh side salad or warm tomato soup to balance the rich flavors.
Storage Tips
Best enjoyed fresh but leftovers can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Variations
Try adding arugula or swapping mozzarella for provolone to customize your panini.
Save 
Enjoy this panini warm for the perfect balance of crispy bread and gooey cheese.
Recipe Guide
- → What bread works best for this panini?
Country-style or sourdough bread is recommended for its sturdy texture and ability to crisp well under heat.
- → Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought basil pesto works well, though homemade pesto will provide a fresher flavor.
- → How do you achieve a crispy crust?
Butter the outer sides of the sandwich and grill it on medium heat, pressing gently to ensure the bread crisps evenly.
- → Is it possible to substitute the mozzarella?
Provolone or other melting cheeses can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- → What serving suggestions complement this panini?
Pairing it with a fresh side salad or a bowl of tomato soup enhances the meal.
- → How can I add more flavor to the finished sandwich?
A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweet acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and pesto.
