Caprese Pesto Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Crispy bread layered with melty mozzarella, fresh tomato slices, and fragrant basil pesto for a comforting Italian-inspired sandwich.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Vegetables & Herbs

03 - 1 large ripe tomato, sliced into rounds
04 - 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, optional for garnish

→ Spreads & Condiments

05 - 2 tbsp basil pesto

→ Bread

06 - 4 slices rustic or sourdough bread

→ Seasonings

07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

# How to Prepare:

01 - Spread 1/2 tbsp of softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
02 - Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
03 - Spread 1 tbsp of basil pesto on the unbuttered side of each bread slice.
04 - Layer mozzarella slices evenly over the pesto, then top with tomato rounds. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
05 - Cover each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward.
06 - Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
07 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and crisp, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
08 - Flip and cook the other side until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
09 - Remove from heat, allow to cool for 1 to 2 minutes, slice diagonally in half, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Combines the comfort of grilled cheese with fresh Caprese flavors.
  • A quick vegetarian meal that feels high-end.
  • Perfectly balanced textures with crispy bread and melted cheese.
02 -
  • Always check your pesto and bread labels for hidden allergens like tree nuts or dairy.
  • Allow the sandwich to rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking to let the cheese set slightly for cleaner slicing.
  • Use room temperature butter to ensure even spreading without tearing the bread.
Go Back