Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese

This sourdough pesto grilled cheese brings together the crisp tang of sourdough bread, creamy fresh mozzarella, savory bacon, and the rich herbal punch of pesto for a satisfying upgrade on a classic comfort food. It is a perfect blend of textures and flavors that make each bite irresistibly delicious.

I first made this sandwich on a lazy weekend when fresh pesto was left over from a party. It immediately became a go-to treat that everyone in the family requests for simple but fancy-feeling meals.

Ingredients List

• Eight thick slices of sourdough bread: for a hearty and crunchy base—choose a loaf with a good crust and open crumb
• Three balls of fresh mozzarella: sliced thin and dried to avoid sogginess—look for milk-white cheese with a springy texture
• Eight sun-dried tomatoes: dried and chopped—opt for oil-packed if possible for deeper flavor but drain well
• Four strips of cooked bacon: chopped—smoky bacon adds a savory, crispy component
• Four tablespoons of pesto: select freshly made or high-quality store-bought to keep the herbal notes bright
• Butter: as needed for grilling—unsalted is best to control saltiness

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Bread:

Spread a generous layer of pesto on one side of each slice of sourdough bread to infuse herbal flavor in every bite and help hold the ingredients together.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

On four slices with pesto, layer mozzarella slices, evenly distribute chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and top with crumbled bacon for balance of freshness, tang, and smokiness.

Close and Butter:

Place remaining four bread slices pesto side down over the fillings. Butter the exposed outer sides to create a golden, crispy crust during cooking.

Grill to Perfection:

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches butter-side down and grill until the bread is golden brown and cheese melts, about five minutes each side. Press gently as needed.

Serve Immediately:

Cut diagonally or keep whole and serve while the cheese is luscious and the bread warm and crisp.

My favorite part is the fresh mozzarella melting perfectly with the savory bacon and pesto. It reminds me of family gatherings where we all loved this a little too much—everyone scrambling for seconds.

Best Storage Practices

Store any leftovers wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best taste, reheat gently in a skillet to crisp the bread again without overcooking the cheese. Avoid microwave as it can turn bread chewy and cheese rubbery.

Ingredient Swaps

Use goat cheese or fontina instead of mozzarella for different creamy textures and flavors Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon works well for those avoiding pork Swap sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers to add a smoky but less tangy twist

Serving Pairings

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to balance richness A cup of tomato soup or roasted vegetable soup complements the Italian flavors beautifully Light pickles or olives provide a bright, briny contrast on the side

Seasonal Upgrades

Add fresh basil leaves in summer for a vibrant and fresh flavor boost In fall, include caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra warmth and depth In winter, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a cozy, spicy touch

This sandwich is both approachable and gourmet, perfect for elevating simple meals with familiar ingredients.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ How can I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Dry the mozzarella slices thoroughly before assembling. This helps reduce moisture and keeps the bread crisp during grilling.

→ What type of bread works best for this dish?

Thick slices of sourdough bread are ideal, as they hold the fillings well and develop a nice crust when grilled.

→ Can I substitute bacon with another ingredient?

Yes, smoked turkey or sautéed mushrooms provide a similar savory depth if you prefer a different flavor or a lighter option.

→ How should I apply pesto for best flavor distribution?

Spread pesto evenly on one side of each bread slice to ensure every bite has a balanced herbaceous taste.

→ What cooking method yields the best texture?

Grilling the sandwiches in a buttered skillet over medium heat gives a golden crust while melting the cheese evenly inside.