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BLT Grilled Cheese with Herby Pesto

This sandwich features crispy bacon layered with melted cheese and toasted bread, all elevated by a vibrant basil and garlic pesto spread. The dish highlights a crispy exterior, gooey interior, and fresh, herbaceous flavors in each bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices bread slices preferably sturdy bread like sourdough or country loaf
  • 4 slices bacon strips thin or standard cut
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves packed
  • 2 cloves garlic cloves minced
  • ½ cup olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 4 tablespoons butter unsalted, for grilling
  • 2 tablespoons pesto store-bought or homemade

Equipment

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Bread knife
  • Toothpick or fork for checking bacon

Method
 

  1. Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden, about 8 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels, then break into smaller pieces.
  2. While the bacon cooks, blend fresh basil, minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a food processor or blender until smooth to make the pesto.
  3. Spread a generous layer of pesto on one side of each bread slice to evenly coat the surface.
  4. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto on two bread slices, then top with the crispy bacon pieces. Cover with the remaining slices, pesto side down, to create sandwiches.
  5. Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet once the butter starts bubbling and sizzling.
  6. Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown, crispy, and the cheese is melted inside.
  7. Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, let them rest for a minute, then slice in half to reveal the melty cheese and crispy edges.
  8. Serve immediately, enjoying the crunchy crust with the fragrant herb pesto and savory bacon melting together inside.

Notes

For extra flavor, add tomato slices or a dash of freshly ground black pepper before grilling. Using thick-cut bacon boosts the flavor and texture.