Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

A golden toasted sandwich layered with creamy mozzarella, ripe tomato, and fresh basil leaves.

# 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 - Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
02 - Place two bread slices buttered side down. Layer mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper.
03 - Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
04 - Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
05 - Place sandwiches in skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, pressing gently with a spatula for even crispness.
06 - Remove from skillet, let rest 1 minute, then slice and serve immediately.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • It hits that perfect balance between humble and restaurant-quality in under twenty minutes.
  • Fresh tomato and basil transform what could be ordinary into something you'll actually crave.
  • The buttery, crispy exterior with melted cheese inside never gets old.
02 -
  • Pat your tomato slices dry with a paper towel before assembling—this single step is the difference between a crispy sandwich and a soggy disappointment.
  • The quality of your mozzarella matters more than any other ingredient; supermarket blocks are fine, but seek out fresh mozzarella from a deli counter and you'll taste why.
03 -
  • Let your butter soften at room temperature for five minutes before spreading—you'll get even coverage without tearing the bread.
  • If your skillet has hot spots, rotate the sandwich halfway through each side so both halves brown evenly instead of one side darkening while the other lags.
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