Caprese Pesto Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomato, and basil pesto melted between golden, crispy bread. An Italian-American twist on a beloved classic.

# Components:

→ Dairy

01 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Vegetables & Herbs

03 - 1 large ripe tomato, sliced into rounds
04 - 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, optional for garnish

→ Spreads & Condiments

05 - 2 tbsp basil pesto
06 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Bread

07 - 4 slices rustic or sourdough bread

# Directions:

01 - Spread 1/2 tbsp of butter on one side of each bread slice.
02 - Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
03 - Spread 1 tbsp of pesto on the unbuttered side of each bread slice.
04 - Layer mozzarella slices evenly over the pesto, then top with tomato rounds. Season tomatoes lightly with salt and pepper.
05 - Cover each with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
06 - Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
07 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes.
08 - Flip and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is melted, about 3 to 4 minutes more.
09 - Remove from heat, let cool for 1 to 2 minutes, slice in half, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It turns a simple grilled cheese into something that feels special without any extra effort or fancy ingredients.
  • The pesto adds an herby richness that makes every bite taste brighter and more interesting than you expect.
  • You can make it with what you already have, and it still feels like youre treating yourself to something from a cafe.
02 -
  • Pat the tomato slices dry with a paper towel before adding them to the sandwich, or the bread can get soggy and fall apart when you flip it.
  • If your mozzarella is really wet, squeeze it gently in a clean towel first to avoid excess moisture that steams instead of melts.
  • Use medium heat and resist the urge to turn it up, the cheese needs time to melt and rushing it only burns the bread.
03 -
  • Let the butter soften at room temperature for at least 20 minutes so it spreads easily without tearing the bread.
  • Press down gently on the sandwich with your spatula while it cooks to help the cheese melt faster and create better contact with the heat.
  • If you want extra crispy edges, add a tiny bit more butter to the skillet just before you place the sandwiches in.
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