Grilled Mozzrella Sandwiches
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When summer rolls around and fresh garden tomatoes are at their peak, this Grilled Mozzarella Sandwich is a must-try. It’s a fantastic alternative to the classic BLT, offering a combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, vibrant pesto, and smoky roasted red peppers. Each bite is packed with fresh, bold flavors, making it the perfect way to enjoy the best produce of the season.
One of the key ingredients that makes this sandwich extra special is fresh mozzarella cheese. Its creamy texture and rich flavor melt beautifully, creating a gooey, indulgent experience. But if fresh mozzarella isn’t available, regular shredded or sliced mozzarella will work just fine.

For the pesto, you might be tempted to grab a jarred version from the pantry—and that will do in a pinch—but I highly recommend using refrigerated pesto from the grocery store. It has a brighter, fresher taste that pairs perfectly with the sweet and slightly acidic tomatoes, bringing out the best in this sandwich.
To complete this delicious sandwich, don’t forget the buttery, golden-brown crust that makes every bite irresistibly crispy. A generous spread of butter on the outside of the bread ensures the perfect crunch when grilled, sealing in all the rich flavors of the gooey mozzarella, savory pesto, juicy tomatoes, and smoky roasted red peppers. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or paired with tomato soup for a comforting meal, this sandwich is a simple yet gourmet twist on a classic. One taste, and you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients for Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches
- SOURDOUGH BREAD
- MOZZARELLA CHEESE – FRESH OR REGULAR
- TOMATOES
- ROASTED RED PEPPERS

Instructions for Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches
Assemble the Sandwiches: Start by spreading a generous layer of pesto evenly onto 4 slices of bread. This adds a fresh, herby punch that pairs beautifully with the gooey mozzarella.
Add the Fillings: On top of the pesto, layer slices of mozzarella cheese, juicy tomatoes, and smoky roasted red peppers. These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Complete the Sandwich & Butter the Bread: Place the remaining 4 slices of bread on top to complete the sandwiches. Then, spread butter on the outside of the top slice of bread, ensuring an extra crispy and golden crust.
Grill to Perfection: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and place the sandwiches butter-side down into the pan. While the bottom side is grilling, spread butter on the top slice of each sandwich.
Flip & Finish Cooking: Once the bottom of the sandwich turns a beautiful golden brown, carefully flip and cook the other side until it’s equally crisp and the cheese is fully melted. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes per side.
Slice & Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice them in half, and serve immediately. Enjoy this gooey, melty, flavor-packed grilled cheese with your favorite soup, salad, or just on its own!

Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best bread to use for this sandwich?
Thicker, hearty breads like sourdough, ciabatta, or rustic Italian bread work best because they hold up well to the fillings and crisp beautifully when grilled. However, regular sandwich bread will still work if that’s what you have!
Can I use a different cheese besides mozzarella?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella creates that delicious, melty texture, other great choices include regular mozzarella, provolone, smoked gouda, Havarti, or fontina, all of which melt beautifully and pair well with pesto.
How do I prevent the bread from burning before the cheese melts?
Cook the sandwiches over medium heat, not high heat. This allows the cheese to melt fully without the bread browning too quickly. You can also cover the skillet for a minute or two to trap heat and speed up the melting process.
Can I add extra ingredients to this sandwich?
Definitely! Some great additions include:
- Fresh basil for extra flavor
- Spinach or arugula for added freshness
- Caramelized onions for a sweet-savory balance
- Sliced avocado for creaminess
Can I make these in advance?
While they’re best served fresh, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and grill them when ready to eat.
What should I serve with these sandwiches?
Some perfect pairings include: Tomato soup for a classic comfort combo, a fresh salad with balsamic dressing, sweet potato fries or chips for a satisfying crunch.
Can I make these sandwiches in a panini press?
Yes! A panini press works great for an even, crispy texture and ensures the cheese melts perfectly.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover grilled cheese sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for the crispiest results (microwaving can make them soggy).
For more recipes like this, try:
- Grilled Turkey Melt
- Easy Grilled Panini Sandwiches
- BLT Sandwich with Balsamic Mayo
- Chicken Caesar Sandwiches

Grilled Mozzrella Sandwiches
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 slices sourdough bread
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese sliced
- 2 large tomato sliced
- 4 oz roasted red peppers jarred
- ½ cup pesto
Instructions
- Spread the pesto equally on 4 slices of the bread.
- Then place the mozzarella cheese, tomatoes and roasted red peppers on top of the pesto. Then top each with a remaining slice of bread.
- Spread butter over the out side of the top slice of bread. Place the sandwiches butter side down in a skillet. While the bottom side grills. Spread butter over the top slice of bread. Once bottom side is golden brown, flip and cook until the other side is golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet, slice in half and serve immediately.
Nutrition
This recipe is adapted from Feel Good Foodie.