Caprese Pesto Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

Crispy golden bread stuffed with melted mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil pesto for a comforting Italian-American twist.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced

→ Vegetables & Herbs

02 - 1 large ripe tomato, sliced into rounds
03 - 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, for garnish

→ Spreads & Condiments

04 - 2 tbsp basil pesto

→ Bread

05 - 4 slices rustic or sourdough bread

→ Other

06 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How-To Steps:

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

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The combination of warm melty mozzarella and bright pesto hits every comfort food craving while feeling sophisticated
  • It comes together in 20 minutes but tastes like something from an Italian café
02 -
  • Medium heat is crucial because high heat burns the bread before the cheese melts
  • Patting tomato slices dry with paper towels prevents your sandwich from becoming soggy
03 -
  • Use a spatula to press down gently while cooking for better contact with the pan
  • Letting the finished sandwich rest for a minute keeps the cheese from oozing out when you cut it
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