This creamy, melty sandwich with fresh tomato and basil is the grilled cheese you didn’t know you needed in your life.
Adding tomato to grilled cheese is amazing. Adding creamy havarti and fresh basil makes it absolutely unforgettable.
Juicy ripe red tomatoes, soft buttery cheese, and fresh basil bring out the best flavor in each bite. It’s like a classic caprese salad, but grilled, toasty, and completely satisfying. This sandwich is easy to make, yet packed with flavor and texture. Whether you use sourdough bread, ciabatta rolls, or your favorite thick slice of bread, this sandwich hits all the right notes.
You’re a big kid. It’s time to give your grilled cheese an upgrade.
Ingredients (for One Tomato Basil Sandwich)
- 2 slices thick bread (sourdough or ciabatta are also great options)
- ½ tablespoon butter, softened
- 1 ounce (4 or 5 thin slices) Havarti cheese
- Tomato slices
- Fresh basil leaves
Directions
- Spread the butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. If you’re using a panini press or nonstick pan, set the heat to medium heat.
- Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, into the pan. Add the cheese slices on top. Use enough for full coverage. Next, layer on the tomato slices and top with a few fresh basil leaves.
- Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up. Cook on medium heat until the first side is golden brown, about 3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook until the other side is also golden brown, another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the pan, let it cool slightly, and enjoy.
Serving Ideas
- This makes a great meal on its own, or serve with a side of fresh fruit, a side salad with ranch dressing, or soup.
- For different flavor, brush the bread with olive oil instead of butter.
- Want variety? Try this recipe with fresh mozzarella cheese and swap Havarti for a more classic caprese sandwich recipe.
FAQs
- Can I use a panini press for this sandwich? Yes! A panini press will give you even heat and fancy crispy grill lines.
- What’s the best way to slice the tomatoes for this sandwich? Use a serrated knife to cut thin, even slices. Choose juicy tomatoes but avoid ones that are too watery.
- Can I use ciabatta rolls instead of sliced bread? Absolutely. Ciabatta rolls offer a crunchy texture and are great options for a heartier version.
- Can I prep this ahead of time? You can slice everything and store it in a small bowl in the fridge. Wait to assemble sandwiches right before grilling and serving.
- Is Havarti better than fresh mozzarella cheese? Havarti melts better, but the combination of fresh mozzarella and tomato gives a more traditional caprese taste.
- What’s the best tomato for flavor? Fresh tomatoes are best. And if you can use homegrown tomatoes, even better! Heirloom tomatoes or in-season tomatoes provide the best flavor. Look for deep color and a sweet smell.
This isn’t just another grilled cheese sandwich recipe. It’s a warm, melty hug between two slices of bread. Grilled tomato sandwiches have never been better.
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Grilled Cheese Tomato and Basil Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 slices thick bread sourdough or ciabatta are also great options
- ½ tablespoon butter softened
- 1 ounce 4 or 5 thin slices Havarti cheese
- Tomato slices
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Spread the butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. If you’re using a panini press or nonstick pan, set the heat to medium heat.
- Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, into the pan. Add the cheese slices on top. Use enough for full coverage. Next, layer on the tomato slices and top with a few fresh basil leaves.
- Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up. Cook on medium heat until the first side is golden brown, about 3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook until the other side is also golden brown, another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the pan, let it cool slightly, and enjoy.
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