Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printer View)

Golden-toasted sandwich layered with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomato, and fragrant basil. A simple yet elevated comfort classic.

# 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

# Method:

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 surface. Distribute mozzarella slices evenly over the bread.
03 - Layer tomato slices and basil leaves over the mozzarella. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.
04 - Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing up.
05 - Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
06 - Place assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until bread achieves golden brown color and cheese melts completely. Press gently with spatula to ensure even, crisp exterior.
07 - Remove sandwiches from pan and cool for 1 minute. Slice diagonally and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes ten minutes but tastes like you spent an hour in an Italian café.
  • The fresh basil does something magical to plain cheese and tomato.
  • Every bite is warm, creamy, crispy, and ridiculously satisfying.
  • You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen right now.
02 -
  • If your tomato is too juicy, it will make the sandwich soggy, so pat the slices dry with a paper towel before layering them in.
  • Medium heat is non-negotiable, I ruined two sandwiches on high heat before I learned patience wins every time.
  • Press gently with the spatula but don't smash it flat, you want contact with the pan but not a pancake.
03 -
  • Let your butter come to room temperature or you'll tear the bread trying to spread it.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, the heat distribution makes for the most even, gorgeous crust.
  • If you're making multiple sandwiches, keep finished ones warm in a low oven while you cook the rest.
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