Caprese Grilled Cheese with Pesto

This grilled cheese is the love child of your favorite panini and a summer tomato salad. Crispy, melty, garlicky, pesto-y (is that a word?)—you’ll want to make this Caprese Grilled Cheese on repeat. It feels fancy, but I promise—if you can assemble a sandwich, you can make this masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The first time I made this for my kids, they asked if I opened a “restaurant sandwich” at home. It’s got all the comfort of grilled cheese plus the melty magic of mozzarella and that zippy pop from basil pesto—total food hug territory.

• Quick and easy—on the table in under 15 minutes.
• Melty mozzarella + fresh tomatoes = unbeatable combo.
• Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack.
• Packed with flavor but super customizable.
• Just a little fancy, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials

Pro Tips

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread. These will be the outsides of your sandwich.
3. Spread pesto on the unbuttered side of two slices of bread.
4. Layer with mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
6. Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Press down gently with a spatula and cook for 3–4 minutes, until golden and crisp.
7. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes, until the cheese is melty and the bread is golden brown.
8. Let cool for a minute, then slice and serve warm.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Low and slow is key—don’t rush the grilling or your bread may burn before the cheese melts.
• Use a lid or cover the pan briefly to help melt the cheese faster.
• Want next-level flavor? Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to the outside of the bread before grilling.
• Try slicing it on a diagonal—it’s scientifically more fun to eat (maybe not, but it feels true!).

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Add a few slices of prosciutto for a salty, savory upgrade.
• Swap mozzarella for burrata if you’re feeling fancy—it oozes beautifully.
• Make mini versions as party appetizers or game-day snacks.
• Serve with a bowl of tomato basil soup for the ultimate cozy combo.
• Add arugula or baby spinach for a fresh, peppery bite.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but grilled cheese is best fresh off the skillet. If you must reheat, do it in a hot pan to keep the crisp.

What’s the best bread to use?

Sourdough is my go-to for its sturdy structure and tang, but any hearty sandwich bread will work. Avoid overly soft breads—they may get soggy.

Is there a nut-free alternative to pesto?

Absolutely! Use a nut-free pesto or make your own with pumpkin seeds or skip it altogether and try a drizzle of balsamic glaze instead for flavor.

Recipe Card

Did you try this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, tag @thekitchensaid on Instagram, or share it with your sandwich-loving crew. Let’s spread the grilled cheese joy!