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Sun Dried Tomato Bacon Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe | Flavor Packed

I just made this Sun Dried Tomato Bacon Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe, and let me tell you—it’s an absolute game-changer! The crispy bacon, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and gooey melted cheddar perfectly complemented by homemade pesto had me going back for seconds.

I couldn’t resist sharing this recipe because it’s simple, indulgent, and packed with flavor. Every bite felt like a gourmet treat in the comfort of my own kitchen. If you love creative twists on sandwiches, you might also enjoy the Vegan Steak Tacos Recipe. Trust me, once you try this, grilled cheese will never be the same.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this decadent grilled cheese:

4 slices of quality bread – I used sourdough for its sturdy texture and tangy flavor.
2 tablespoons of pesto – homemade is best, but store-bought works in a pinch.
4 slices of cooked bacon – adds crunch and smoky depth; avoid pre-cooked microwave bacon for best texture.
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes – packed in oil works best for extra richness.
1 cup shredded medium white cheddar cheese – freshly grated melts better and tastes fresher.
2 tablespoons butter – soft for easy spreading on the bread.

Note: This recipe serves 2 generous sandwiches.

Variations

Mix it up with these alternative options:

Dairy-free: Substitute cheddar with vegan cheese slices.
Healthier twist: Use whole-grain or gluten-free bread.
Flavor boost: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh arugula.
Sugar-free: Make your own pesto without added sugar.

For more creative sandwich ideas, check out the Elite Steak Tacos Recipe.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes

Equipment You Need

Skillet or griddle – for evenly toasting the sandwich.
Spatula – to flip the sandwich without spilling the filling.
Knife – for slicing tomatoes and bread.
Grater – to shred cheese freshly for better melt.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Bacon Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe?

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Cook the bacon until crisp and drain on paper towels. Slice sun-dried tomatoes and shred the cheese if not pre-shredded. Make sure all your ingredients are ready before starting.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread butter on the outer sides of the bread. On the inner side, layer pesto, bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, and shredded cheddar. Top with the second slice of bread, butter side out.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Heat your skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve immediately.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience making this, here’s what helps elevate the flavor:

I always use freshly grated cheddar; it melts more evenly and tastes amazing.
Let the bacon cool slightly before assembling, so it doesn’t make the bread soggy.
Don’t rush the grilling—low and slow gives that perfect golden crust.
If I want extra flavor, I add a sprinkle of garlic powder on the buttered side of the bread.

How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Bacon Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe?

This sandwich shines best hot off the skillet. I like to cut it diagonally for a classic presentation and garnish with fresh basil or a few sun-dried tomato slices. Serve with a side of tomato soup or a crisp salad to balance the richness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown per sandwich:

Calories: 450–500 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 28g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing: You can freeze ungrilled sandwiches for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to maintain crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this sandwich has become my go-to:

Easy to Prepare: Quick assembly makes it perfect for a weekday lunch or dinner.
Flavorful: The combination of pesto, bacon, and sun-dried tomatoes is irresistible.
Customizable: You can switch up the bread, cheese, or add extras like arugula.
Comfort Food Upgrade: Classic grilled cheese elevated to gourmet level.
Versatile: Works as a snack, lunch, or hearty dinner option.

This Sun Dried Tomato Bacon Pesto Grilled Cheese is more than just a sandwich—it’s a flavor-packed experience that’s easy to recreate at home. I promise, each bite is a delicious mix of savory, tangy, and cheesy perfection!

Ben Carraoli