Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Fresh basil, ripe tomato, and melted mozzarella between golden-toasted bread slices. A simple yet satisfying comfort classic.

# 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

# Directions:

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.
04 - Top sandwiches 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 turns golden brown and cheese melts completely. Press gently with a spatula to achieve an even, crisp exterior.
07 - Remove from pan, allow to cool for 1 minute, then slice and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It takes familiar comfort food and adds just enough brightness to feel like you made something special.
  • You can pull it together with pantry staples and whatever tomatoes look good at the store.
  • The basil transforms it from basic to crave-worthy without any extra effort.
  • Cleanup is one pan and a cutting board, which is exactly what a busy weeknight needs.
02 -
  • Medium heat is non-negotiable, high heat will char the bread before the cheese melts and you will end up with a crunchy shell around cold mozzarella.
  • Pat the tomato slices dry with a paper towel before layering them in, or the sandwich gets soggy and the bread never crisps properly.
  • Use a heavy spatula to press down gently while cooking, it helps the cheese make contact with the bread and creates that irresistible gooey center.
03 -
  • If you want a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes between the cheese and tomato layers.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat evenly and gives the bread an extra crispy, almost caramelized crust.
  • Make two sandwiches at once if your pan is big enough, they stay warm longer and you are not stuck cooking in shifts while everyone else eats.
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