Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Fresh basil, ripe tomato slices, and creamy mozzarella toasted between buttered bread 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 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 work surface.
03 - Distribute mozzarella slices evenly over the bread, followed by tomato slices and basil leaves. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
04 - Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up, pressing gently to secure.
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. Press gently with a spatula for an even, crisp exterior.
07 - Remove from pan, allow to cool for 1 minute, slice diagonally, and serve immediately.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It takes just 20 minutes but tastes like you put real thought into lunch.
  • The fresh basil and tomato make it feel less like kid food and more like something you'd actually crave.
  • You probably already have everything you need sitting in your kitchen right now.
02 -
  • Medium heat is non-negotiable, high heat will char the bread before the mozzarella even thinks about melting.
  • Pat the tomato slices dry with a paper towel or the sandwich will get soggy and fall apart when you bite into it.
03 -
  • Press gently with the spatula while cooking, it helps the cheese melt faster and gives you that perfect crispy crust.
  • If you're making multiple sandwiches, keep the finished ones warm in a 200-degree oven while you cook the rest.
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