Pesto Grilled Cheese is a quick, tasty sandwich. It uses simple bread, cheese, and green pesto. You get warm melted cheese and a bright pesto flavor in each bite. This recipe works for a fast lunch or a simple dinner.
Why make this recipe
- It cooks fast — about 5 minutes.
- It uses few ingredients you may already have.
- It tastes fresh and rich at the same time.
- It is easy to change for kids or adults.
How to prepare Pesto Grilled Cheese
- Lay out two slices of bread.
- Spread pesto on one side of each slice.
- Put a slice of cheese between the unbuttered sides of the bread so the pesto faces the cheese.
- Butter the outsides of the bread.
- Heat a skillet on medium and grill each side until golden and the cheese melts.
- Slice and eat while it is warm.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread
- 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons of pesto
- Butter (for grilling)
Steps
- Spread pesto on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place a slice of cheese between the unbuttered sides of the bread.
- Butter the outside of the sandwiches.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill the sandwich until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Remove from the skillet, slice, and serve warm.
How to serve Pesto Grilled Cheese
Serve the sandwich hot so the cheese is gooey. A simple salad or fresh tomato slices go well with it. For a classic pairing, try it with grilled cheese and tomato soup for a cozy meal.
How to store Pesto Grilled Cheese
- If you have leftovers, cool the sandwich fully.
- Wrap in foil or place in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a skillet on low heat to keep the bread crisp and the cheese melted.
Tips to make Pesto Grilled Cheese perfectly
- Use medium heat so the bread browns but the cheese melts.
- Thin butter on the outside gives even browning.
- If using thick bread, press gently with a spatula while cooking.
- Try a mix of cheeses for more flavor.
Variations (if possible)
- Add sliced tomato or cooked chicken for extra protein.
- Use pesto with basil, sun-dried tomatoes, or arugula for different tastes.
- Swap bread for sourdough or ciabatta for a different texture.
- Make open-faced and broil briefly for a crisp top.
FAQ
Q: Can I use jarred pesto?
A: Yes. Jarred pesto works fine and saves time.
Q: What cheeses melt best?
A: Cheddar and mozzarella melt well. Swiss and provolone also work.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes. Use vegan cheese and vegan butter.
Q: How do I keep the bread from burning before the cheese melts?
A: Cook on medium or medium-low heat and cover the pan briefly to trap heat.

Pesto Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and tasty sandwich featuring warm melted cheese and bright pesto flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread
- 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons of pesto
- Butter (for grilling)
Instructions
- Lay out two slices of bread.
- Spread pesto on one side of each slice.
- Put a slice of cheese between the unbuttered sides of the bread so the pesto faces the cheese.
- Butter the outsides of the bread.
- Heat a skillet on medium and grill each side until golden and the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Slice and eat while warm.
Notes
For additional flavors, try different cheeses or add toppings like sliced tomatoes or chicken.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American

