Get ready to elevate your summer movie night with a dish that's as delightful to eat as it is easy to prepare! These Artisan Style Melts are the perfect blend of crispy bread, gooey mozzarella, and vibrant pesto, topped with sun-dried tomatoes for an explosion of flavor in every bite. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these melts will have everyone reaching for more. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, you won’t want to miss out on this deliciously simple recipe that’s bound to impress!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices artisan bread
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will help achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust on your artisan melts.
- While the oven is preheating, gather all your ingredients: artisan bread, mozzarella cheese, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and olive oil.
- Take the artisan bread slices and lay them flat on a clean cutting board or baking sheet. You should have four slices ready to go.
- Using a brush or a spoon, lightly coat one side of each slice of bread with olive oil. This will help the bread crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- On the unbrushed side of each slice, spread a generous layer of pesto. Use about 2 tablespoons of pesto per slice to ensure a flavorful base.
- Evenly distribute the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the pesto spread on each slice. Make sure to cover the surface for a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Sprinkle a quarter cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sun-dried tomatoes on each slice. This will melt and create a deliciously gooey texture.
- Once all slices are assembled, place them on a baking sheet, pesto side up. You can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Once done, remove the melts from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before slicing them in half or quarters for easier handling.
- Serve the artisan melts warm, perhaps with a side of extra pesto for dipping, and enjoy them during your summer movie night!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality artisan bread and fresh mozzarella cheese. This will make a noticeable difference in the overall taste of your melts.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add ingredients like sliced olives, fresh basil, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Watch the Oven: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your melts as they bake. You want that perfect golden-brown crust and bubbly cheese, but you don’t want to overcook them.
- Serve with Dips: Enhance your movie night experience by serving these melts with a side of extra pesto, marinara sauce, or even a tangy balsamic glaze for dipping.
- Perfect Pairing: These artisan melts pair wonderfully with a light salad or a refreshing drink, making them a versatile choice for any gathering.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
