Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Print View)

Classic comfort sandwich with fresh basil, ripe tomato, and creamy mozzarella, toasted until golden and perfectly melted.

# Components:

→ 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 surface.
03 - Distribute mozzarella slices evenly over the bread, followed by tomato slices and basil leaves. Season with salt and black pepper.
04 - Place remaining bread slices on top with buttered side facing 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 heat, cool for 1 minute, then slice and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It turns five everyday ingredients into something that feels like you tried, without actually trying.
  • The fresh basil does something almost unfair to plain melted cheese, it wakes it up.
  • You can make it on a weeknight in your pajamas and still feel like you cooked.
02 -
  • If your heat is too high, the bread will toast before the cheese melts, leaving you with a crunchy shell and cold insides.
  • Salting the tomato slices ahead of time can make them weep and turn your sandwich soggy, so season right before building.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat better and gives you a more even, crispy crust.
  • Let the butter come to room temperature before spreading, it makes the job easier and the browning more consistent.
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