Caprese Grilled Cheese Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the moment when your teeth sink into a perfectly golden, buttery crust, giving way to the heavenly combination of molten mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil—it feels like I’ve been transported straight to an Italian summer with just one bite of this caprese-inspired grilled cheese.

I love taking timeless recipes and turning them into something truly spectacular, and my Caprese Grilled Cheese does just that. With fresh mozzarella oozing perfectly between slices of sourdough bread, the juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves make this sandwich a powerhouse of flavor and texture.

A hint of balsamic glaze ties everything together, creating an extraordinarily satisfying meal.

Caprese Grilled Cheese Recipe Ingredients

• Sourdough Bread: A great source of carbohydrates with a tangy flavor.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Rich in protein and calcium, provides a creamy texture.
• Tomatoes: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, offer juiciness and flavor.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds a fragrant aroma and rich in vitamins K and A.
• Balsamic Glaze: Sweet and tangy, enhances flavor with a hint of acidity.

Caprese Grilled Cheese Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

How to Make this Caprese Grilled Cheese Recipe

1. A skillet or griddle should be heated to medium over a burner.

2. One side of each slice of sourdough bread should be lightly buttered with the softened butter.

3. On the preheated skillet, place two slices of bread with the buttered side facing down.

4. Evenly layer half the mozzarella slices across the bread in the skillet.

5. Place slices of tomato atop the mozzarella, then give them a light shower of salt and black pepper.

6. Spread the basil leaves over the tomatoes evenly.

7. Balsamic glaze drizzled over basil leaves.

8. Place the mozzarella slices that are left over on top of the basil-covered loaf of bread.

9. Finish by capping it with the leftover slices of bread. These should be buttered side up.

10. Cook the sandwiches on the grill for about 3-4 minutes on both sides or until the bread is a golden brown and the mozzarella has melted. Carefully take them off the grill, slice them, and serve immediately.

Caprese Grilled Cheese Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Skillet or griddle
2. Butter knife
3. Cutting board
4. Sharp knife
5. Measuring spoons
6. Spatula

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?Certainly! Although sourdough lends a slightly sour taste and a fabulous texture, it can be replaced with any number of tasty, sturdy breads such as ciabatta or whole-grain.
• What is a good alternative to fresh mozzarella?If fresh mozzarella isn’t on hand, you can substitute regular mozzarella or provolone, with a similar creamy melt, in a dish.
• Is there a way to make the sandwich crispy without butter?Certainly, olive oil can take the place of butter to give you a crisp outer layer while keeping what’s inside light.
• How do I make balsamic glaze at home?Just reduce and thicken balsamic vinegar over medium heat until it reaches a syrupy consistency. Stir now and then and don’t let it burn.
• Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?Of course! Ingredients such as slices of avocado or a sprinkle of arugula can be added for additional flavor and variety.
• What’s the best way to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?To prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy, slice the tomatoes and lightly salt them. Then let them drain on paper towels before adding them to the sandwich.

Caprese Grilled Cheese Recipe Substitutions and Variations

As an alternative to sourdough bread, you may select either ciabatta or whole grain bread.
In the absence of unsalted butter, you can satisfactorily use olive oil or salted butter as a substitute.
Substitute burrata or provolone cheese for fresh mozzarella.
Cherry or Roma tomatoes can substitute for medium tomatoes.
Instead of fresh basil leaves, you could use fresh spinach or arugula and get a different flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil you can find. Fresh cheeses and produce will enhance the flavors and elevate the overall taste of the sandwich.