The Fancy Nancy Grilled Cheese
Why settle for basic when you can have the "Fancy Nancy"? This sandwich is a masterclass in flavor, layering crispy bacon and a sweet balsamic honey reduction with a sophisticated trio of Wisconsin cheeses.
By combining the creamy melt of Fresh Mozzarella, the bold tang of Gorgonzola, and a nutty Parmesan pesto, you get a gourmet experience in every bite. It’s a complex, salty-sweet masterpiece that proves exactly why Wisconsin is the gold standard for grilled cheese.
Ingredients:
Parmesan Pesto:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 Tbsp pine nuts
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 0.75 ounce Sartori SarVecchio Parmesan cheese, grated (1/4 cup)
Balsamic Reduction:
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:
- 8 slices sourdough bread
- 12 ounces sliced Fresh Mozzarella Cheese
- 6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
- 2/3 cups Gorgonzola cheese (4oz)
- 4 Tbsp mayonnaise
Instructions
| 1. Place basil, pine nuts, garlic and salt into food processor; cover and pulse until finely chopped. While processing, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth. Add parmesan; cover and pulse until blended. Set aside. |
| 2. Bring balsamic vinegar to a boil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium. Stir in honey; simmer, uncovered, stirring until balsamic-honey mixture is reduced by half and slightly thickened. Remove from the heat. Cool slightly. |
| 3. Spread 1 tablespoon pesto on each bread slice. Layer four bread slices with mozzarella, bacon and gorgonzola. Drizzle each with balsamic reduction. Top with remaining bread slices, pesto side down. Spread mayonnaise on the outside of sandwiches, lightly pressing together. Cover and refrigerate any remaining pesto; save for a different recipe. |
| 4. Toast one sandwich, covered, in a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes or until side is golden brown. Flip sandwich; cook, uncovered, 2-4 minutes longer or until bread is golden brown and cheeses are melted. Repeat step with remaining sandwiches. |
© Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin