Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Toasted bread layered with melted mozzarella, fresh tomato, and basil for a flavorful meal.

# Components:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough or country-style bread
02 - 4 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Vegetables & Herbs

04 - 1 large ripe tomato, thinly sliced
05 - 8–10 fresh basil leaves

→ Seasonings

06 - Salt, to taste
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Method:

01 - Evenly spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
02 - Place two bread slices, buttered side down, on a cutting board. Layer each with half the mozzarella, tomato slices, basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper.
03 - Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
04 - Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
05 - Place sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese has melted.
06 - Remove from heat, let cool for one minute, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in less than 20 minutes but tastes like you spent way more time on it.
  • Fresh basil and ripe tomato turn the ordinary into something that feels intentional and restaurant-worthy.
  • It's endlessly customizable depending on what's in your fridge or what mood you're in.
02 -
  • Wet tomatoes are the enemy of crispy bread, so salt your tomato slices a few minutes before assembling and blot them with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • The cheese needs to actually melt, which means medium heat and patience instead of cranking the temperature up and hoping for the best.
03 -
  • A lid or even a sheet of foil placed over the skillet for the last minute traps heat and ensures the cheese melts completely even if your bread is already golden.
  • Pressing the sandwich gently while it cooks helps the bread and filling make contact with the heat, but resist the urge to flatten it like a panini because you want soft cheese, not squeezed cheese.
Return