Pesto Grilled Cheese Two Ways: An Irresistible Family Meal for Both Adults and Kids!

When the goal is to delight every palate at the dinner table, from the littlest family members to the grown-ups, look no further than this incredibly simple yet satisfying Pesto Grilled Cheese recipe. We’ve crafted two distinct versions: a straightforward, classic take that’s perfect for kids, and an elevated, flavor-packed option designed to tantalize adult taste buds. This recipe yields two sandwiches of each type, making it ideal for a family of four or two enthusiastic eaters of each style!

Disclosure: This post is proudly sponsored by Sprouts Farmers Market. Rest assured, all opinions, ideas, and enthusiasm expressed here are genuinely my own.

The Undying Charm of a Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Ah, grilled cheese. It’s more than just a sandwich; it’s a cornerstone of childhood, a beacon of comfort food, and a dish that evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia for so many of us. I’d wager a good guess that almost everyone grew up with some version of this golden, cheesy delight. In my household, it wasn’t just a meal; it was a staple, often making an appearance on chilly afternoons or busy weeknights. Back then, I wasn’t much of a soup person (a fact that has happily changed over the years!), so the grilled cheese itself had to be absolutely phenomenal. It had to be the star, capable of standing on its own without needing a companion. This early dedication to a truly exceptional sandwich is what continues to fuel my passion for creating gourmet grilled cheese whenever the craving strikes.

Nowadays, much to the delight of my husband, I often pair my elevated grilled cheese sandwiches with a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Yet, even with a delicious soup on the side, the sandwich remains the undisputed main event in my culinary world. The joy of a perfectly melted, golden-brown grilled cheese is simply unmatched.

Speaking of unmatched joy, did you know that April 12th is celebrated as National Grilled Cheese Day? It’s a fantastic excuse to indulge in this beloved classic, or better yet, to experiment with new and exciting variations that push the boundaries of what a grilled cheese can be.

Why “Two Ways” is the Ultimate Family-Friendly Approach

As a relatively new mom (and yes, it still feels a little surreal!), my cooking philosophy has expanded to include catering to different palates within the same meal. The thought of my little one, “Babycakes,” trying new foods fills me with excitement and a touch of anticipation for the inevitable picky eating phases. This experience has truly inspired me to develop recipes that can effortlessly bridge the gap between adult preferences and kid-friendly favorites.

This Pesto Grilled Cheese Two Ways recipe is a direct result of that new perspective. It’s designed to be a win-win, allowing you to prepare a single meal that satisfies everyone. You start with a simple, universally appealing base, and then easily customize it with more complex, grown-up flavors. This approach means less stress in the kitchen and more happy faces at the table, proving that delicious family meals don’t have to be complicated.

The Kid-Friendly Pesto Grilled Cheese: Pure Comfort

For the younger ones (and perhaps adults who prefer a more classic taste), the kid-friendly version keeps things delightfully simple. It combines the comforting creaminess of two types of cheese with the vibrant, herbaceous notes of pesto, all nestled between slices of perfectly toasted bread. It’s familiar, it’s cheesy, and it’s full of the simple flavors kids adore, making it an instant hit without any fuss.

The Adult-Friendly Pesto Grilled Cheese: An Elevated Experience

For those seeking a more sophisticated flavor profile, the adult version takes the humble grilled cheese to new heights. By adding a few carefully selected ingredients, we transform it into a gourmet sandwich that excites the palate. Tangy sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion for a subtle bite, and a delicate drizzle of balsamic vinegar introduce layers of complexity that perfectly complement the rich cheese and aromatic pesto. This version is a true treat for the senses, proving that a grilled cheese can be elegant and exciting.

Crafting the Perfect Sandwich: Essential Ingredients from Sprouts

To create these exceptional grilled cheese sandwiches, the quality of your ingredients truly makes a difference. As a devoted fan of Sprouts Farmers Market, I wholeheartedly recommend sourcing your ingredients there. Sprouts offers an incredible selection of fresh, high-quality products that make elevating your home cooking both easy and enjoyable. Their commitment to natural, wholesome foods shines through in every bite.

• Sprouts Sourdough Sliced Bread: This is my absolute favorite choice for grilled cheese. Its distinct, slightly tangy flavor and robust texture hold up beautifully to grilling, toasting to a perfect golden crisp while remaining wonderfully chewy on the inside. It forms the perfect foundation for our cheesy masterpieces.
• Sprouts Sliced Provolone and Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The combination of these two cheeses is pure magic. Provolone offers a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a fantastic melt, while mozzarella brings that essential gooey, stretchy texture we all crave in a grilled cheese. Together, they create an irresistibly cheesy core.
• Sprouts Creamy Basil Pesto: This is the secret weapon for ultimate flavor. Sprouts’ creamy basil pesto delivers all the fresh, aromatic notes of traditional pesto but with an extra silky texture that pairs exceptionally well with melting cheese. It spreads smoothly and infuses every bite with a burst of basil goodness.

You’ll be delighted by how easily these high-quality ingredients come together to create a memorable meal, perfect for celebrating National Grilled Cheese Day on April 12th, or any day you’re craving something special!

Beyond the Basics: Other Yummy Grilled Cheese Recipes to Explore

If you’re already a grilled cheese enthusiast and love experimenting, here are a few other creative recipes to inspire your next sandwich adventure:

• Inverted French Baguette Grilled Cheese
• Cornbread Waffle Grilled Cheese
• Tomato & Provolone Grilled Cheese

Your Must-Have Tools & Ingredients for Pesto Grilled Cheese

One of the best things about grilled cheese is its simplicity, both in ingredients and equipment. You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to achieve perfection. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need, most of which you can find at your local Sprouts Farmers Market:

• High-Quality Bread: As mentioned, Sprouts Sourdough Bread is my top recommendation for its flavor and texture.
• Cheeses: Sprouts Sliced Provolone and Shredded Mozzarella for that ultimate melt.
• Pesto: Sprouts Creamy Basil Pesto for its smooth texture and fresh taste.
• Butter: Unsalted butter, at room temperature, for the perfect golden crust.
• Adult Add-ins: Sprouts Sun Dried Tomatoes (drained), fresh red onion slices, and a good quality balsamic vinegar.
• Skillet: A good quality large skillet or cast-iron pan is essential for even toasting. I particularly love using my Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet.
• Cutting Board & Knife: A reliable utility cutting board and a sharp Wusthof Knife Set make prep a breeze.

Want to switch things up? Make your own pistachio pesto recipe to use in this recipe for a bold and unique variation. The nutty notes of pistachio add a delightful twist!

Here’s How to Make Pesto Grilled Cheese Two Ways!

Making these sandwiches is incredibly simple, ensuring you can whip up a delicious meal even on the busiest days. Follow these easy steps to create both the kid-friendly and adult-friendly versions simultaneously.

Step 1: Prepare and Assemble Your Sandwiches

1. Begin by buttering one side of each bread slice. This buttered side will be the exterior of your sandwich, ensuring a beautiful golden-brown crust when toasted.
2. Flip the bread slices over so the unbuttered side is facing up. On this unbuttered side, spread approximately 1 teaspoon of Sprouts Creamy Basil Pesto evenly across each slice. The pesto will be nestled inside, complementing the cheese.
3. For the Kid-Friendly Version: Take two of your pesto-spread bread slices. On the unbuttered, pesto-covered side of one slice, layer two slices of Sprouts Provolone Cheese, followed by an even sprinkle of about 2 ounces of Sprouts Shredded Mozzarella Cheese. Place the other pesto-covered bread slice on top, buttered side facing out.
4. For the Adult-Friendly Version: For the remaining two pesto-spread bread slices, on the unbuttered, pesto-covered side of one slice, layer two slices of Sprouts Provolone Cheese, then an even sprinkle of about 2 ounces of Sprouts Shredded Mozzarella Cheese. Distribute a quarter cup of drained sun-dried tomatoes and a quarter cup of thinly sliced red onion over the cheese. Finish with a drizzle of 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Place the other pesto-covered bread slice on top, buttered side facing out.

Step 2: Toast to Golden Perfection

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. It’s crucial not to have the heat too high, as this will burn the bread before the cheese has a chance to fully melt.
2. Carefully place your assembled sandwiches into the warm skillet, buttered side down.
3. Toast for approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the bread is a rich golden brown and the cheese is gloriously melted and gooey. You might need to adjust the heat slightly as you go to maintain a steady, gentle sizzle.
4. Once toasted to perfection, remove the sandwiches from the skillet.

Serving Suggestions and Customization Ideas

These pesto grilled cheese sandwiches are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic pairing, serve them with a bowl of warm tomato soup. A simple side salad or a handful of your favorite chips also makes for a delightful and easy meal. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your additions!

• Add Protein: Sliced turkey or ham can be a great addition to the adult version.
• More Veggies: Spinach, thinly sliced bell peppers, or even grilled mushrooms could be excellent in the adult sandwich.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère, Fontina, or white cheddar for varying flavors and melt characteristics.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the adult version can add a nice kick.

Discover More Delicious Sandwich Recipes!

If these Pesto Grilled Cheese Two Ways have sparked your interest in sandwich artistry, be sure to explore my comprehensive sandwiches recipe page for a wealth of inspiration and exciting new ideas!