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Creamy Pesto Cheese Tomato

Creamy Pesto Cheese Tomato Bliss for Gourmet Grilled Cheese

Indulge in this Creamy Pesto Cheese Tomato bliss, featuring a gourmet twist on classic grilled cheese that's perfect for lunch.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Sandwich
  • 4 slices Sourdough Bread Try whole grain for added nutrients.
  • 4 oz Mozzarella Cheese Consider provolone for a gourmet touch.
  • 4 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese Opt for part-skim versions to cut back on fat.
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Softened butter makes spreading easy.
For the Pesto
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves Always use fresh for the best taste.
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Walnuts make a great budget-friendly substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Replace with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh cloves are ideal for maximum potency.
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Be cautious with the amount to avoid soggy bread.
For the Tomato Jam
  • 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes Canned tomatoes work in a pinch.
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Honey or a sugar alternative can be used.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Red wine vinegar can enhance the flavor profile.
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder version.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • food processor
  • saucepan

Method
 

Tomato Jam Preparation
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine halved cherry tomatoes, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, a pinch of salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir together and cook for 20-25 minutes until syrupy.
  2. Remove from heat and let the jam cool while you prepare the other components.
Pesto Preparation
  1. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
  2. While the processor is running, drizzle in olive oil until reaching a smooth texture. Season with salt and pepper.
Sandwich Assembly
  1. Preheat a skillet over medium-low heat. Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
  2. On the non-buttered side, spread pesto, add the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, then spoon on some tomato jam. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side out.
Grilling
  1. Cook the sandwiches in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula for even browning.
  2. Remove when the bread is golden brown and cheese is melting.
Serving
  1. Once golden and toasted, remove from skillet and cool for a minute before slicing. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Avoid overfilling, and grill on medium-low heat to ensure perfect melting.

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