Sun Dried Tomato Bacon Pesto

Sun dried tomato bacon pesto grilled cheese comes together when you want a classic sandwich to taste brand new This one packs so much punch thanks to smoky bacon tangy tomatoes savory basil pesto and layers of gooey cheese It is a lunch or comforting weeknight dinner that always gets rave reviews at my table and the flavor combination honestly makes you crave seconds and thirds

The first time I tried this grilled cheese I had some leftover pesto and bacon and tossed them together as an experiment Now it is my go to on busy days and everyone usually asks for the recipe when they leave my kitchen

Ingredients

• Sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian loaf: chooses slices with a dense crumb so they stay crisp and hold all those delicious fillings
• Cooked bacon: lean and crispy bacon provides smoky depth and a salty balance
• Mozzarella or provolone cheese: opt for fresh or high moisture cheese for ultimate meltiness
• Sun dried tomatoes in oil: give a punchy tang and chewy texture seek out tomatoes that look plump and glossy for peak flavor
• Basil pesto: homemade or a good quality refrigerated version adds herby fragrance and complexity
• Butter room temperature and spreadable: ensures a golden crust with deep toasty flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Build the Sandwich:

Spread softened butter generously on one side of every bread slice Lay two slices buttered side down on a clean cutting board Spread two tablespoons of pesto across the unbuttered sides so each bite gets a herby punch Start with a layer of cheese followed by a neatly arranged stack of crispy bacon Next sprinkle the chopped sun dried tomatoes evenly across the bacon Add the final layer of cheese and cap each with the second bread slice buttered side facing out This layering guarantees maximum melt and flavor

Grill the Sandwich:

Place a heavy bottomed skillet over medium heat and let it get nice and warm Slide both sandwiches carefully into the pan Buttered side should be down so you get a golden crispy crust Let the sandwiches cook untouched for about three minutes Press lightly with a spatula to help them brown evenly Gently flip each sandwich and cook the other side for another three minutes Lower the heat if the bread darkens too fast The cheese must melt fully for that classic grilled cheese stretch

Slice and Serve:

Remove the sandwiches from the pan and let them rest for a minute This helps keep all those hot fillings in place Slice each sandwich in half for the ultimate cheese pull Serve immediately while the crust is still crisp and the cheese is perfectly melty Great with a bowl of soup or just by itself

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Basil pesto is my secret obsession I sometimes double the pesto in this sandwich for even richer flavor because my family cannot get enough Once my niece called it “the green magic sandwich” after her first bite which still makes me smile

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers let the grilled cheese cool and wrap it tightly in foil Store in the refrigerator for up to two days To reheat place in a skillet over low heat or pop in a toaster oven for a few minutes until just warmed and crackling again This sandwich does not love the microwave since it can make the bread soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

Provolone and mozzarella both melt smoothly but you can use fontina gouda or even sharp cheddar for a twist If you are out of bacon try turkey bacon or a vegetarian substitute For nut free pesto try a version made with seeds or swap in a prepared tapenade for a briny note

Serving Suggestions

This grilled cheese shines on its own but it pairs perfectly with tomato basil soup crisp pickles or a simple arugula salad For a brunch spread I will cut it into strips and serve with a side of roasted potatoes

Cultural and Historical Context

Grilled cheese sandwiches stretch back to the early twentieth century in America and they have only become more creative over time Adding Mediterranean touches like sun dried tomatoes and pesto takes the comfort of childhood and marries it with the bold flavors my Italian relatives have always loved

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Honestly this is the kind of grilled cheese that turns a regular meal into something memorable My family always hangs out in the kitchen trying to snatch the first crispy slice so be ready for fans to appear before it even hits the plate

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What bread works best for this sandwich?

Sturdy choices like sourdough or Italian loaf hold up well and toast nicely without becoming soggy.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, mozzarella or provolone melt beautifully, but cheddar or Havarti would add their own character.

→ How can I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

Spread butter on the outside and avoid overfilling with oily ingredients. Grill over medium heat for crispiness.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Swap the bacon for grilled vegetables or additional cheese for a satisfying meat-free option.

→ How do I get the cheese extra gooey?

Covering the pan briefly while cooking helps the cheese melt thoroughly for creamy, stretchy centers.