Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Fresh tomato and basil meld with melted cheese in a toasted sandwich, offering a simple yet delicious meal.

# What You Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough or country-style bread
02 - 4 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Vegetables & Herbs

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

→ Seasonings

06 - Salt, to taste
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How-To Steps:

01 - Evenly spread softened butter over one side of each slice of bread.
02 - Place two bread slices buttered side down on a cutting board. Divide and layer mozzarella, tomato slices, basil leaves, then season lightly with salt and black pepper.
03 - Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up, to form two sandwiches.
04 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat until warm.
05 - Place sandwiches onto the skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
06 - Remove sandwiches from skillet, let rest for one minute, then slice and serve while warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The mozzarella becomes incredibly creamy without overpowering the fresh tomato and basil
  • It comes together in twenty minutes but tastes like something from a restaurant
02 -
  • Medium heat is crucial because high heat burns the bread before the cheese melts through
  • Slicing tomatoes too thin makes them disappear while too thick creates wet sandwiches
03 -
  • Butter the corners thoroughly because those areas burn first and ruin the whole experience
  • A balsamic glaze drizzle right before serving transforms this into something fancy enough for company
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