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Zupas Ultimate Grilled Cheese sliced open showing melted cheddar and muenster
Donny Enriquez

Copycat Café Zupas Ultimate Grilled Cheese

A two-cheese grilled cheese on ciabatta with sharp cheddar, muenster, fresh tomato, and a pesto-mayo spread that crisps the crust evenly. Ready in about 10 minutes, with a Brisket version variation included.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Main Course, Sandwich
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ciabatta roll split
  • 3 tablespoons basil pesto plus more for the interior if desired
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 to 3 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 to 3 slices muenster cheese
  • 2 to 3 thin slices ripe tomato lightly salted and patted dry

Equipment

  • Heavy skillet (cast iron or thick stainless)
  • Bacon press or second small skillet (optional)
  • Spatula
  • Small bowl for the spread

Method
 

  1. Stir the pesto and mayonnaise together in a small bowl until smooth and evenly combined.
  2. Layer the cheddar, tomato, and muenster on the bottom half of the split ciabatta roll. Close the sandwich.
  3. Spread the pesto-mayo mixture over both outer faces of the bread, all the way to the edges.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the sandwich 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until deep golden brown and the cheese has fully melted. Cover briefly at the end if the inside needs more time.
  5. Rest 1 minute before slicing.

Video

Notes

For the Brisket Grilled Cheese variation with brisket, provolone, parmesan, arugula, and a hot honey BBQ spread, see the section above.
Grilled cheese doesn't hold well once cooked; prep the spread and pre-slice cheese ahead, then grill fresh.
Reheat leftovers in a dry skillet, not the microwave, to bring back some crispness.
Café Zupas' published nutrition lists both the Ultimate and Brisket versions at 670 calories per sandwich; a homemade version will vary with your bread and cheese amounts.