Caprese Pesto Grilled Cheese (Printable version)

Crispy bread filled with melted mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant pesto for a satisfying Italian-inspired twist on a classic favorite.

# 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, optional 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 Prepare:

01 - Spread 1/2 tbsp of softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
02 - Place two bread slices buttered side down on a clean surface. Spread 1 tbsp of basil pesto over the unbuttered side of each slice.
03 - Arrange fresh mozzarella slices over the pesto, then layer tomato rounds on top. Lightly season tomatoes with salt and ground black pepper.
04 - Top each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered side faces outward.
05 - Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
06 - Carefully place sandwiches in the skillet. Cook until the bread turns golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
07 - Turn sandwiches over using a spatula. Continue cooking until the second side is golden and cheese is completely melted, about 3-4 additional minutes.
08 - Remove from heat and let rest for 1-2 minutes. Cut each sandwich in half diagonally and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The pesto adds an herby brightness that cuts through rich melted mozzarella
  • It comes together in under 20 minutes but tastes like something from a fancy Italian café
  • The combination of warm, gooey cheese and fresh tomato is incredibly satisfying
02 -
  • Medium-low heat is your friend, going too high will burn the bread before the cheese melts
  • Patting the tomato slices with a paper towel first prevents that dreaded soggy bottom situation
  • Letting the sandwich rest for even just 60 seconds makes all the difference between a messy slide and a clean bite
03 -
  • Mayonnaise mixed with a little parmesan makes an incredible butter substitute that browns even more beautifully
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat so evenly and creates the most uniform golden crust
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