Caprese Salad Grilled Cheese (Print View)

A vibrant sandwich layered with fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and balsamic glaze.

# Components:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough or Italian bread
02 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Vegetables & Herbs

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

→ Condiments & Garnish

06 - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Spread softened butter evenly over one side of each bread slice.
02 - Place two slices butter-side down; layer with mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper.
03 - Drizzle balsamic glaze over tomato and basil layers.
04 - Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
05 - Warm a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
06 - Cook sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
07 - Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute, slice in half, and drizzle with additional balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It feels like you're eating something fancy but takes less time than ordering takeout.
  • The warm melted cheese against cool, juicy tomato and bright basil creates this moment of pure comfort that tastes like Italy decided to visit your lunch.
  • Your kitchen will smell so good you'll want to make another one immediately.
02 -
  • Pat your tomato slices dry with a paper towel before layering—excess moisture is the enemy of a crispy bread exterior and evenly melted cheese.
  • Fresh mozzarella can split if the pan is too hot, so resist the urge to crank the heat; medium is genuinely the magic temperature here.
03 -
  • Keep a small bowl of extra balsamic glaze nearby to drizzle on the plate—a little something you do after plating makes it feel like you put more thought into it than you did.
  • Make these in pairs if you're cooking for someone else; the timing syncs up perfectly and you can serve them together while they're still warm and their best.
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