Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Golden toasted bread with fresh tomato, basil leaves, and melted mozzarella for a flavorful meal.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough or country-style bread
02 - 4 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
03 - 2 tablespoons 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 - Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
02 - Place two bread slices buttered side down on a cutting board. Layer each with half the mozzarella, tomato slices, basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper.
03 - Cover the assembled layers with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
04 - Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
05 - Place sandwiches on the skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
06 - Remove from heat, allow to rest for one minute, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • Ready in twenty minutes but tastes like you've been planning it all day.
  • The warm cheese mingles with fresh basil in a way that makes you taste every single layer.
  • It's proof that sometimes the most satisfying meals don't ask for much.
02 -
  • Slice your tomatoes right before cooking—give them time on a plate and they'll weep water into your bread, turning it into mush.
  • Medium heat is your friend here; high heat races to brown the outside while the cheese inside barely notices.
03 -
  • A lid placed over the skillet for the last minute of cooking helps the cheese melt completely without burning the bread.
  • Provolone gives you a sharper bite, cheddar makes it richer—know what you want before you start.
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