Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Fresh basil, ripe tomato, and creamy mozzarella layered between buttered bread and grilled to golden perfection.

# What You 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

# Directions:

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 - Distribute mozzarella slices evenly over bread, then layer 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 until ready for cooking.
06 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted. Gently press with a spatula for even, crisp exterior.
07 - Remove from pan, cool for 1 minute, slice diagonally, and serve immediately.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It takes ten minutes but tastes like you spent all afternoon in the kitchen.
  • The fresh basil adds a brightness that makes ordinary grilled cheese feel gourmet.
  • You probably have most of these ingredients sitting around already.
  • It pairs with tomato soup so well that you will want both every single time.
02 -
  • Do not skip the resting step after cooking, cutting too soon means all that melted cheese will slide right out onto your plate.
  • Medium heat is crucial, too high and the bread burns before the cheese melts, too low and you lose that satisfying crunch.
  • Pat the tomato slices dry with a paper towel to avoid a soggy sandwich, I learned this the messy way.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat beautifully and gives you the most even, golden crust.
  • If your tomato is especially juicy, salt the slices lightly and let them sit on a paper towel for a few minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  • Press down gently but firmly with your spatula while cooking, it helps the cheese meld with the other ingredients and creates better contact with the pan.
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