Ingredients
Butter and Bread
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
- 2 slices sourdough bread (1-inch thick)
- Garlic powder (to taste)
- Italian seasoning (to taste)
Filling
- 2/3 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 slices roma tomato
- Basil pesto (about 2 tablespoons)
- 4 large basil leaves (ribboned)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional
- Balsamic reduction (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Spread Butter: Spread the softened salted butter evenly on both sides of each sourdough bread slice. Sprinkle each slice lightly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning to infuse additional flavor. If you are using unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt inside the sandwich for balance.
- Assemble and Pre-toast Bread: Heat a pan over medium-low heat or preheat an electric griddle to 275°F. Place the buttered bread slices onto the pan and cook for about 1 minute until they start to toast. Flip so the toasted side faces up.
- Add Filling: On one bread slice, layer 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly, followed by the slices of roma tomato, a generous spoonful of basil pesto, and top with the remaining 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese. Place the other bread slice on top, ensuring the toasted side touches the cheese for optimal melting.
- Cook Sandwich: Cook the sandwich for 2 to 4 minutes on one side, then flip. Cover the pan with a lid and continue cooking for another 2 to 4 minutes, allowing the bread to become golden and crisp and the cheese to melt perfectly inside.
- Garnish: Remove the sandwich from heat. Carefully lift the top bread slice enough to insert the fresh ribboned basil leaves inside the sandwich. Optionally, drizzle some balsamic reduction over the basil for added sweetness and tang.
- Serve: Serve your Caprese Grilled Cheese immediately while warm and melty. Offer extra pesto and balsamic reduction on the side for dipping or drizzling as preferred.
Notes
- Using softened salted butter helps achieve a crispy and flavorful bread exterior.
- Balsamic reduction adds a sweet and tangy note to complement the sandwich but is optional.
- Adjust garlic powder and Italian seasoning to suit your taste preference.
- Cooking on medium-low heat ensures the cheese melts before the bread burns.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the cheese and pesto do not contain animal-derived rennet or additives.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian