Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich- The Ultimate Comfort Food

I actually had to call in to work today:( I barely EVER call in to work because on days that I might not feel great, I can usually muster up the energy to at least work from home. Today, I just couldn't do it- I've got wicked cold for sure! Anyways, after I took a 3 hour nap, I needed to take a dose of medicine but didn't want to do that on an empty stomach. Nothing really sounded great, I didn't feel like making something complicated, and I wanted something quick. Ahh yes, a grilled cheese sandwich-nothing like it! I made a little Mrs. Grass chicken noodle soup to go with my comforting grilled cheese, and I have to say, that combo for lunch had me feeling slightly more human in no time.

I personally feel like I've perfected the basic grilled cheese. Now, I realize you can use a million different breads, a zillion different cheeses, and you can add ham or tomato...the options are endless. My grilled cheese is pretty modest and uses ingredients you already have around, but is not very bashful in taste!

Ingredients & Recipe:

Printable Recipe

• 2 slices of whatever bread you have (whole-wheat, pumpernickel or rye make the best grilled cheese- I think!)
• 1-2 tabs of butter
• 2 slices of your favorite cheese (today I used 1 slice of Colby-Jack and 1 slice of American)
• 2 tsp. of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp. of Pesto (store bought or homemade)
• 2 slices of tomato

Begin by heating a griddle pan or regular saute pan over medium heat. I really think starting with a hot pan helps you get a nice crunchy crust. With a butter-knife, butter one side of each slice of bread. Over a plate, sprinkle 1 tsp. of Parmesan cheese over the buttered side of each slice of bread, and use the knife to work it into the butter. (Not all of the Parmesan will stick to the butter, but do your best). Place one piece of bread, butter side down, to start grilling. Schmear some pesto on its other side, layer with 1 piece of cheese, the tomato slices, the other piece of cheese and top with the other buttered bread slice (butter side out). Carefully flip after about 2 minutes (or after your desired color), and grill for 2 more minutes on the other side.

Cut your sammie on the diagonal and remember: you absolutely CANNOT enjoy this sandwich without a good kosher pickle spear!

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• My mom always uses spray butter instead of regular butter! Very good option!