Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese is a simple, flavorful twist on the classic sandwich. With fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, it brings a bright, summery taste to your comfort food favorites.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread
- 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 ripe tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Butter, for grilling
Instructions
- Step 1: Lay out the two bread slices and layer one slice with cheese, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves.
- Step 2: Top with the second slice of bread and butter the outside of both slices evenly.
- Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the sandwich in the pan.
- Step 4: Grill the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Step 5: Remove from the pan, cut in half, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use a combination of cheeses for extra flavor and meltiness, such as mozzarella mixed with sharp cheddar.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before grilling for a sweet and tangy kick.
- For a crunchier texture, use hearty artisan bread or sourdough.
Storage
Store any leftover sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to preserve the crispy bread and melted cheese.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other herbs instead of basil?
Yes, fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can work well, but basil provides the best classic flavor pairing with tomato and cheese.
What type of cheese melts best for this sandwich?
Mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, or a blend of these cheeses melt beautifully and complement the tomato and basil flavors perfectly.
PrintTomato Basil Grilled Cheese Recipe
A classic and comforting Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese sandwich combining melty cheese, fresh tomato slices, and fragrant basil leaves grilled to golden perfection between slices of crispy bread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Bread
- 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Cheese
- 2 slices of cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2–3 slices of ripe tomato
- 3–4 fresh basil leaves
Other
- Butter or margarine for spreading
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Spread a thin, even layer of butter on one side of each bread slice to ensure a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place one slice of bread butter-side-down on a skillet or griddle. Layer the cheese slices on top, followed by the tomato slices and fresh basil leaves. Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side-up.
- Grill the Sandwich: Heat the skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted completely.
- Serve: Remove the grilled sandwich from the skillet, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Use ripe, firm tomatoes to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties to customize flavor and meltiness.
- For extra flavor, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- Serve with a side of soup or salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, tomato sandwich, basil sandwich, cheese melt, easy sandwich recipe
