Picture this: a sunny afternoon, the aroma of fresh basil wafting through the air, and a sandwich that’s so comforting, it feels like a hug in edible form. This Caprese Grilled Cheese isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience, like finding an unexpected $5 in your coat pocket. With melty mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and a crunch that could rival the latest TikTok trend, it’s a taste bud tango you won’t want to miss.
Steps
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce by placing cherry tomatoes in a dry nonstick skillet and heating until slightly charred. Reduce the heat, add a tablespoon of butter, and stir carefully to avoid splattering. Press the tomatoes gently to release their juices, then add balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and another tablespoon of butter, simmering until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the sandwiches by layering pesto, fresh mozzarella cheese, and the garlic butter tomato sauce on a slice of sourdough bread. Top with another slice of bread and spread butter on the outer sides. Repeat the process to prepare the second sandwich.
- Cook the sandwiches by placing them in a skillet over medium-high heat. Flip once or twice to ensure both sides are browned and the cheese is melted. Enjoy the gooey deliciousness of your Caprese Grilled Cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 large slices of thick sourdough bread
- 4 thick slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (Land O Lakes® recommended)
- 10 ounces fresh cherry tomatoes
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (Land O Lakes® recommended)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
FAQ
- What makes the Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce special in this recipe?
- The Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce is a key feature of the Loaded Caprese Grilled Cheese. It’s unique because it combines fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, butter, and balsamic vinegar to create a thick, almost jam-like consistency, enhancing the sandwich with a rich and savory flavor.
- What type of bread is recommended for this sandwich?
- The recipe suggests using thick slices of sourdough bread, which provides a sturdy base to hold the generous fillings of mozzarella, pesto, and the garlic butter tomato sauce.
- Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese with another type?
- Fresh mozzarella is recommended for its creamy texture and classic Caprese flavor. However, if needed, you could try another mild, melty cheese like provolone or fontina, though it might alter the quintessential taste.
- How many sandwiches does this recipe yield?
- This recipe makes two large sandwiches, which can serve two to four people, depending on appetite and portion control.
- Is there a specific pesto recommended for this recipe?
- The recipe notes suggest using a Walnut Pesto, though any good-quality store-bought or homemade pesto can work as long as it complements the other flavors in the sandwich.
Tips
- Charred Tomatoes for Depth: When making the garlic butter tomato sauce, ensure the cherry tomatoes are slightly charred in the skillet before adding other ingredients. This enhances the sauce’s depth of flavor.
- Balanced Cheese Melting: Use thick slices of fresh mozzarella to ensure a gooey, melted center. Flip the sandwich multiple times to evenly brown both sides and melt the cheese thoroughly.
- Butter for Perfect Crispiness: Use half sticks of salted butter to easily manage portions for both the tomato sauce and grilling the bread. This not only adds flavor but ensures a crispy, golden crust.
- Custom Pesto: Experiment with different pesto variations, such as walnut pesto, to add a unique twist to the sandwich. This can enhance the overall taste and complement the garlic butter tomato sauce.
Equipment
- Nonstick Skillet – Essential for making the garlic butter tomato sauce and pan-frying the sandwiches.
- Wooden Spoon – Useful for pressing the tomatoes to release their juices.
- Spatula – Necessary for flipping the sandwiches in the skillet.
