Looking for a fresh, easy twist on a classic comfort food?
You’re going to love this Caprese Grilled Cheese with Heirloom Tomatoes & Basil Pesto.
It’s crispy, cheesy, full of flavor, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. With golden toasted bread, melty mozzarella, juicy heirloom tomatoes, and a punch of homemade pesto—this grilled cheese takes things to the next level.
Let’s walk through exactly how to make it from start to finish.
Why You’ll Love This Caprese Grilled Cheese
- Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients
- Crispy outside, gooey cheesy inside
- Full of fresh tomato and basil flavor
- Great for both kids and adults
- Perfect as a light meal or paired with soup or salad
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you fire up your skillet, here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious grilled cheese:
- Bread – Sourdough, white, or whole wheat all work great. Choose something sturdy so it holds up when grilled.
- Fresh Mozzarella – Soft, creamy mozzarella slices that melt beautifully.
- Heirloom Tomatoes – Use colorful, ripe heirloom tomatoes for the best taste and texture.
- Basil Pesto – Homemade or store-bought, pesto adds a fresh, herby flavor.
- Butter or Olive Oil – To toast the bread to golden, crispy perfection.
- Salt & Pepper – Just a pinch to bring out all the flavors.
Optional Add-ins:
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan
- Fresh basil leaves for extra flavor
How to Make the Caprese Grilled Cheese (Step-by-Step)
Making this sandwich is super easy. Follow these steps for the best results:
Prep the Ingredients
Slice your tomatoes and mozzarella. If your pesto is thick, you can thin it out with a little olive oil.
Butter the Bread
Spread a thin layer of butter or olive oil on one side of each bread slice. This will help your sandwich get that perfect golden crust.
Layer It Up
On the unbuttered side, spread pesto, then layer mozzarella slices and tomatoes. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Add extra basil if you like. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
Grill the Sandwich
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve Warm
Slice in half and enjoy while it’s hot and gooey!
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Cheese
- Use low heat to allow the cheese to melt before the bread gets too dark.
- Press gently with a spatula while cooking to help everything hold together.
- Let the sandwich rest for 1 minute before cutting to keep the cheese from spilling out.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste—especially fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.
Easy Variations You Can Try
Want to mix it up? Here are some fun ideas:
Add Balsamic Glaze
A sweet drizzle of balsamic reduction adds a tangy finish.
Try Different Cheeses
Add provolone or fontina for extra melty goodness.
Add Protein
Try grilled chicken or turkey slices for a heartier meal.
Go Vegan
Use dairy-free cheese and vegan pesto for a plant-based version.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free bread and double-check your pesto ingredients.
What to Serve with Caprese Grilled Cheese
This sandwich is great on its own, but even better with sides:
- Soups: Tomato soup, roasted red pepper soup, or minestrone
- Salads: Mixed greens, arugula salad, or a cucumber-tomato salad
- Drinks: Iced tea, sparkling lemonade, or a glass of white wine
- Snacks: Chips, fruit, or pickles
Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
Want to prep ahead or store leftovers? Here’s how:
Make Ahead
Assemble the sandwich without grilling. Store wrapped in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Storage
If already grilled, let it cool completely, then wrap and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat
Best reheated in a skillet over low heat until warm and crispy. You can also use a toaster oven.
Avoid the Microwave
It can make the bread soggy and chewy instead of crispy.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of heirloom?
Yes! Use any ripe, juicy tomato. Roma or vine tomatoes work well.
What’s the best bread for grilled cheese?
Thick slices of sourdough or white bread hold up best and give a nice crunch.
Can I make it in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Caprese Grilled Cheese with Heirloom Tomatoes & Basil Pesto
Ingredients
- 4 slices sturdy bread (like sourdough or whole wheat)
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 heirloom tomato, sliced
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
- Optional: balsamic glaze, extra basil leaves, grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients:Slice the mozzarella and tomato. If using thick pesto, thin it slightly with a bit of olive oil. Set everything aside.
- Butter the Bread:Spread butter or olive oil on one side of each bread slice. This side will face outward for grilling.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:On the unbuttered side, spread pesto, then layer with mozzarella and tomato slices. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side out.
- Grill the Sandwiches:Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve and Enjoy:Let the grilled cheese rest for 1 minute before slicing. Serve warm with a side of soup, salad, or enjoy on its own.
