Caprese Grilled Cheese is a delicious meal, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a balsamic glaze drizzle.
Hello, friend! Get ready to elevate your grilled cheese game with this mouthwatering Caprese Grilled Cheese recipe. If you think grilled cheese is just for kids, this recipe will change your mind. I’m taking classic comfort food and adding a touch of Italian elegance with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
And for a final touch of sweetness, a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or a fancy snack. So grab your skillet and let’s get grilling!
Utensils You Need:
Gather these tools to create your gourmet grilled cheese:
- Skillet or panini press
- Butter knife
- Cutting board
The Recipe
Caprese Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 4 slices of crusty bread (sourdough or ciabatta are great choices)
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Butter, for spreading
Instructions
- Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
- Top with two slices of mozzarella cheese.
- Layer tomato slices and basil leaves on top of the cheese.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Place the remaining slices of bread, butter-side up, on top of the sandwiches.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet, cut in half, and serve warm.
Notes
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use pesto instead.
- You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- If you’re using a panini press, cook the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Cook method: Stovetop, Grilling (if using a panini press)
Season: All seasons
Alternative Ingredients:
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below:
Ingredient | Alternative |
Fresh mozzarella | Shredded mozzarella cheese |
Crusty bread | Any type of bread, such as sourdough, white, or wheat |
Balsamic glaze | Balsamic vinegar |
What to Serve with Caprese Grilled Cheese:
You can pair this delicious Caprese Grilled Cheese with the following:
- A side of tomato soup for a classic combination.
- A small salad with a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Fresh fruit for a light and refreshing side.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! You can use any type of bread you like, but a crusty bread like sourdough or ciabatta will give you the best results.
Can I add meat to this sandwich?
While this recipe is vegetarian, you can add cooked chicken, prosciutto, or salami for a non-vegetarian version.
Can I grill this sandwich instead of pan-frying it?
Yes, you can grill this sandwich on a panini press or outdoor grill. Just be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best to make the sandwich fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them just before cooking.