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:
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
- Butter one side of each slice of Irish soda bread.
- On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer white cheddar, mozzarella, and 1 tablespoon of pesto per sandwich.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
Grill the Sandwich:
- Place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- For extra crispiness, brush a little olive oil onto the bread before flipping.
Serve and Enjoy:
- 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!
