Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Elevated comfort sandwich featuring fresh basil, juicy tomato, 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 Prepare:

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 - Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side 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 a spatula for even, crisp exterior.
07 - Remove from pan, cool for 1 minute, then slice and serve immediately.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It takes ten minutes but tastes like you put in real effort, the kind of meal that makes you feel capable on a tired evening.
  • Fresh basil and tomato turn something ordinary into something you actually look forward to eating, not just filling space.
02 -
  • If your tomato is watery, pat the slices dry with a paper towel or the sandwich will get soggy and the bread won't crisp properly.
  • Medium heat is non-negotiable, I've burned more than one sandwich by rushing it on high and ending up with raw cheese inside charred bread.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat better and gives you an even, golden crust without hot spots.
  • If the cheese isn't melting fast enough, cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking to trap the heat and speed things up.
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