Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable Version)

Classic comfort sandwich with fresh basil, ripe tomato slices, and creamy mozzarella, toasted to golden perfection.

# 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 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 - Layer mozzarella slices evenly over the bread, followed by tomato slices and basil leaves. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
04 - Place remaining bread slices on top with buttered side facing up.
05 - Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
06 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted. Press gently with spatula for even crisping.
07 - Remove from pan, cool for 1 minute, slice diagonally, and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It takes barely any time but tastes like you put real thought into lunch.
  • The basil adds this bright, peppery note that makes every bite feel less predictable.
  • You get that perfect contrast: crispy, buttery crust outside and creamy, melty center inside.
  • It's one of those meals that works whether you're alone with a book or feeding a friend who dropped by.
02 -
  • Pat the tomato slices dry with a paper towel before layering them in, or they'll release too much moisture and make the bread soggy.
  • Medium heat is your friend here, too high and the bread burns before the cheese melts, too low and you lose that crispy texture.
  • If your mozzarella isn't melting fast enough, cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat beautifully and gives you the most even, golden crust.
  • Don't crowd the pan, cook one sandwich at a time if needed so you can control the heat and get that perfect crisp.
  • Let the butter come to room temperature before spreading, it makes a world of difference in how evenly it coats the bread.
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