Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Savory sandwich featuring fresh tomato, basil, and melted cheese on golden toasted bread.

# What You’ll 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

# Directions:

01 - Spread the softened butter evenly over 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 - Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
04 - Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
05 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese melts.
06 - Remove sandwiches from skillet, let rest for one minute, then slice and serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 20 minutes, so it's perfect for when you want something warm and satisfying without the fuss.
  • Fresh basil and ripe tomato make it feel gourmet even though you're using your everyday skillet.
  • The combination of crispy bread, melted cheese, and bright acidity is endlessly comforting.
02 -
  • Tomato slices must be thin and patted dry with paper towel, or moisture will make your bread soggy no matter what you do.
  • Don't skip the butter on the outside of the bread—that's what creates the irresistible golden crust that makes this more than just melted cheese.
03 -
  • Press the sandwich gently with your spatula while it cooks—just enough to help the cheese make contact with the bread, not enough to squeeze everything out.
  • Use a bench scraper or offset spatula to flip, because it gives you more control than a regular spatula.
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