Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese

This gourmet twist on a classic grilled cheese combines crispy sourdough, melty mozzarella, smoky bacon, and vibrant pesto for a quick, satisfying dinner that feels indulgent yet simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese

This sourdough pesto grilled cheese hits every craving. The crispy, buttery bread balances the gooey mozzarella, smoky bacon, and herby pesto for the ultimate comfort bite. It’s quick to make and feels like café food you can whip up in your own kitchen. Each layer melts together into a perfect mix of savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy flavors. You’ll love how it transforms a simple grilled cheese into a rich, restaurant-style meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you need an easy dinner that still feels special.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need For Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese

Sourdough Bread

Thick, fresh sourdough gives this sandwich its signature crunch. Its chewy texture and mild tang balance the richness of the cheese and pesto. Choose sturdy slices that hold up during grilling so you get that golden, crispy crust without any sogginess.

Mozzarella Cheese

Fresh mozzarella brings the creamy melt that makes this sandwich irresistible. Slice it thin and pat it dry with a paper towel before layering. This simple trick keeps the sandwich crisp instead of soggy while giving you that perfect cheese pull in every bite.

Pesto

Classic basil pesto adds a punch of fresh, garlicky flavor. You can also switch things up with sun-dried tomato or roasted red pepper pesto for a colorful twist. Just remember, a thin layer goes a long way—too much can make the sandwich oily.

Flavor Boosters

Bacon adds salty crunch, while sun-dried tomatoes bring a chewy sweetness that balances the savory layers. If you want to mix things up, try prosciutto, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a nutty finish.

Step-by-Step: How to Make the Perfect Pesto Grilled Cheese

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the mozzarella and cooking the bacon until crisp. Lay out your sourdough slices and butter one side of each. Keep the buttered sides facing down on the pan to prepare for easy grilling.

Assemble the Sandwich

Begin with a layer of mozzarella on each slice, then add a spoonful of pesto. Sprinkle on chopped sun-dried tomatoes and bacon bits. Top with another layer of mozzarella, then close the sandwich with the second slice of sourdough, buttered side facing out.

Grill Slowly and Evenly

Heat a skillet over medium-low. Place the sandwiches in and cook gently until the bottom turns golden and the cheese starts melting. Then, flip carefully and cook the other side. Slow cooking helps the cheese melt completely without burning the bread.

Rest and Slice

Once both sides are perfectly toasted, remove the sandwiches and let them rest for a minute. This helps the cheese settle slightly, so slicing is clean and gooey without falling apart.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Use room-temperature cheese for smoother melting. Always butter the bread directly—never the pan—for the crispiest crust. Avoid overloading with pesto or fillings so your sandwich stays intact. Cooking slowly on medium-low heat gives even browning and perfect melt. Also, pat mozzarella dry and use a light hand with butter for the ideal texture. For a quick dinner idea, serve it with Classic Tomato Soup perfect alongside grilled cheese or a side salad.

Easy Ingredient Substitutions

Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina if you like a deeper, more savory flavor. Ciabatta or artisan white bread can replace sourdough in a pinch. You can also use olive oil or mayo instead of butter for grilling. For vegetarian options, skip the bacon or use roasted peppers or caramelized onions. If you’re dairy-free, use a vegan mozzarella and pesto made without cheese. For a creative twist, pair it with Sourdough Hamburger Buns to complement your grilled cheese.

What to Serve With Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese

This sandwich pairs beautifully with creamy tomato soup, a crisp arugula salad, or sweet potato fries. Pickles add a tangy crunch, while iced tea or sparkling water keeps it light. For something richer, try pairing it with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for creamy dinner inspiration.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Tips

You can prep the ingredients in advance—cook the bacon and slice the cheese up to two days ahead. Assemble the sandwiches and store them in the fridge, wrapped, for up to 24 hours. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving—it softens the bread. For a make-ahead meal, freeze assembled sandwiches for later, then thaw slightly before grilling fresh.

FAQs

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a savory dinner twist
• Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese for a bolder sandwich
• Chicken Caesar Wrap that pairs great with pesto flavors

Final Thoughts

This sourdough pesto grilled cheese turns a childhood classic into something unforgettable. It’s simple, flavorful, and always satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, it’s the kind of meal that feels both cozy and indulgent. Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to for quick, comforting dinners. For more inspiration, check out my collection on Pinterest.