Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printer-friendly)

Elevated comfort sandwich featuring fresh basil, juicy tomato, and creamy mozzarella grilled until golden and melty.

# What You'll Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices rustic or sourdough bread
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
03 - 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced

→ Vegetables & Herbs

04 - 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
05 - 8 to 10 fresh basil leaves
06 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# How-To Steps:

01 - Lay out bread slices and evenly spread softened butter on one side of each slice.
02 - Place two bread slices buttered side down on a clean surface.
03 - Arrange mozzarella slices evenly over the bread, followed by tomato slices and basil leaves. Season with salt and black pepper.
04 - Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
05 - Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
06 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted. Press gently with spatula for even, crisp exterior.
07 - Remove from pan, cool for 1 minute, then slice and serve immediately.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • It turns everyday pantry staples into something that feels gourmet without any fancy technique.
  • The combination of creamy mozzarella, sweet tomato, and fragrant basil tastes like a Caprese salad tucked inside crispy, buttery toast.
  • You can make it start to finish in the time it takes to brew a pot of coffee.
  • It works as a quick lunch, cozy dinner, or late night snack when youre craving comfort.
02 -
  • Dont skip softening the butter, cold butter tears the bread and leaves you with uneven browning and sad bare spots.
  • Medium heat is your friend here, too high and youll have burnt bread with cold cheese in the middle, too low and it takes forever and never crisps up right.
  • Pat the tomato slices with a paper towel before layering them in, extra moisture can make the sandwich soggy instead of crisp.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat beautifully and gives you the most even, crispy crust.
  • If youre making more than two sandwiches, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven while you cook the rest so everyone eats at the same time.
  • Tear the basil leaves instead of cutting them with a knife, it bruises them less and keeps the flavor brighter.
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