Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

A golden-toasted classic with fresh basil, juicy tomato, and creamy mozzarella cheese melted between buttered bread.

# 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 Make It:

01 - Lay out all bread slices and evenly spread softened butter on one side of each slice.
02 - Place two bread slices buttered side down on a clean work surface.
03 - Distribute mozzarella slices evenly over the bread, followed by tomato slices and basil leaves. Season with salt and black pepper.
04 - Top each sandwich with remaining bread slices, positioning them buttered side up.
05 - Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat until it reaches cooking temperature.
06 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until bread achieves golden brown color and cheese fully melts. Apply gentle pressure with spatula for even crisping.
07 - Remove from pan and allow to cool for 1 minute. Slice diagonally and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It takes less time than ordering takeout and tastes like you spent an hour in the kitchen.
  • Fresh mozzarella melts into creamy pockets that stretch with every bite, nothing like the stuff from a bag.
  • The basil adds a bright note that makes this feel like more than just cheese on bread.
02 -
  • If your tomato slices are too thick, they release too much moisture and make the bread soggy. Aim for slices about a quarter inch thick.
  • Medium heat is your friend here. I rushed once on high and ended up with charred bread and cold cheese in the middle.
03 -
  • Press down gently but firmly with your spatula while the sandwich cooks. This helps the cheese melt evenly and creates better contact with the pan for that perfect crust.
  • If your tomatoes are releasing too much juice, pat them dry with a paper towel before layering them in. This small step keeps everything from getting soggy.
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