Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Fresh basil, ripe tomato, and melted mozzarella between buttered, toasted bread. A timeless comfort sandwich ready in 20 minutes.

# What You 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 Steps:

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 - Arrange mozzarella slices evenly over the bread, followed by tomato slices and basil leaves. Season with salt and black pepper.
04 - Top 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 is golden brown and cheese is melted. Press gently with a spatula for even crisping.
07 - Remove from pan, cool for 1 minute, slice, and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 20 minutes but tastes like you spent an hour on it.
  • The fresh basil and tomato make every bite feel bright and summery, even in winter.
  • You probably have everything you need already sitting in your kitchen.
  • It is the kind of meal that makes you feel good without any fuss or fancy techniques.
02 -
  • Do not crank the heat too high or the bread will burn before the cheese melts, leaving you with a sad, unmelted middle.
  • Use softened butter, not melted, because melted butter soaks into the bread instead of creating that crispy surface.
  • Let the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking so the cheese firms up just enough that it does not slide out when you bite in.
03 -
  • Press down gently with your spatula while cooking to help the cheese melt faster and create better contact with the pan for even browning.
  • If you are making more than two sandwiches, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven while you cook the rest so everyone eats at the same time.
  • Swap mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or even fontina if you want to change up the flavor without losing that melty magic.
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