Irish Soda Bread Grilled Cheese with Pesto | YumAndJoy

Irish Soda Bread Grilled Cheese with Pesto

This Irish Soda Bread Grilled Cheese with Pesto is a crispy, golden, cheesy delight, featuring buttery Irish soda bread, gooey melted cheddar and mozzarella, and fragrant basil pesto. A festive St. Patrick’s Day twist on a classic comfort food, this grilled cheese is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy and Buttery – Irish soda bread toasts beautifully for a crunchy, golden crust.
  • Rich and Gooey Cheese – A blend of white cheddar and mozzarella makes every bite extra melty.
  • Pesto Twist – Adds herby, garlicky freshness to balance the richness of the cheese.
  • Quick and Easy – Ready in just 13 minutes, making it a perfect lunch or snack.
  • Great for St. Patrick’s Day – A creative way to enjoy traditional Irish soda bread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 4 slices Irish soda bread
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 4 ounces white cheddar cheese, sliced
  • 2 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons basil pesto
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)

Directions

Assemble the Sandwich:

  1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Butter one side of each slice of Irish soda bread.
  3. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer white cheddar, mozzarella, and 1 tablespoon of pesto per sandwich.
  4. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.

Grill the Sandwich:

  1. Place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet.
  2. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
  3. For extra crispiness, brush a little olive oil onto the bread before flipping.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve warm!

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Servings: 2 sandwiches
  • Calories: 420 kcal per sandwich

Variations

  • Garlic Butter Grilled Cheese – Mix minced garlic into the butter for an extra punch of flavor.
  • Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or a slice of spicy pepper jack cheese.
  • Meaty Twist – Layer in crispy bacon or prosciutto for added savoriness.
  • Tomato Basil Option – Add sliced tomatoes for a fresh contrast.
  • Gluten-Free Alternative – Use gluten-free soda bread or your favorite gluten-free bread.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat for a crispy texture or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the bread may become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Irish soda bread?

Yes! Homemade or store-bought soda bread works great. Just ensure it’s sliced evenly.

What other cheeses work well?

Try Gruyère, fontina, or Havarti for a delicious variation.

Can I use regular bread instead of soda bread?

Of course! While Irish soda bread adds a unique texture, any thick, crusty bread will work.

How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out?

Layer the cheese evenly and press lightly while cooking—don’t press too hard!

Can I make this sandwich in a panini press?

Yes! A panini press or griddle works perfectly for a more even crisp.

What can I serve with this grilled cheese?

Pair it with tomato soup, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

How do I make this sandwich extra crispy?

Brush the bread lightly with olive oil or mayo before grilling for a crispier crust.

Can I make this without butter?

Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter.

What if I don’t have pesto?

Use chopped fresh basil, garlic butter, or a smear of green goddess dressing instead.

Can I add an egg to this sandwich?

Absolutely! A fried or poached egg makes it even more indulgent.

Conclusion

This Irish Soda Bread Grilled Cheese with Pesto is a simple yet gourmet twist on a classic sandwich. With crispy soda bread, melty cheddar and mozzarella, and aromatic pesto, it’s the perfect comfort food for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you crave a hearty, cheesy bite. Quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious—try it today!

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Irish Soda Bread Grilled Cheese with Pesto

Irish Soda Bread Grilled Cheese with Pesto


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  • Author: Mari
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A crispy, golden Irish soda bread grilled cheese, layered with gooey melted white cheddar and mozzarella, and a touch of fragrant basil pesto. This festive and comforting twist on a classic grilled cheese is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or a cozy lunch!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 slices Irish soda bread
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 4 ounces white cheddar cheese, sliced
  • 2 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons basil pesto
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Skillet:

    • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  2. Butter the Bread:

    • Butter one side of each slice of Irish soda bread.
  3. Assemble the Sandwich:

    • On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer the white cheddar, mozzarella, and a spoonful of pesto.
    • Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
  4. Grill the Sandwich:

    • Place the sandwich in the heated skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula.
    • For extra crispiness, drizzle a little olive oil in the pan before flipping.
    • Cook until golden brown and crispy with melted cheese inside.
  5. Serve & Enjoy:

    • Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then cut into halves and serve warm!

Notes

  • Extra Flavor: Add sliced tomatoes, caramelized onions, or crispy bacon for an even tastier twist.
  • Pairing Idea: Serve with a bowl of tomato soup or a light salad for a complete meal.
  • Make it Irish: Swap pesto for Guinness caramelized onions for a deeper, more Irish flavor.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Snack
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Irish-American
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