Caprese Grilled Cheese Dippers (Printable Version)

Melty grilled cheese sandwiches with fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil, sliced into dippable strips.

# Components:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 8 slices sourdough or country white bread
02 - 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
03 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Vegetables & Herbs

04 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
05 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

→ Sauce

06 - 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed

→ Seasonings

07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil, optional for brushing bread

# Method Steps:

01 - Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
02 - Lay out bread slices and spread butter on one side of each slice.
03 - On the unbuttered side of half the bread slices, layer mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
04 - Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
05 - Lightly brush olive oil on the outside of each sandwich for extra crispness if desired.
06 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
07 - Remove sandwiches and let cool for 1 to 2 minutes. Slice each into 3 to 4 strips.
08 - Serve warm with a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes the comfort of grilled cheese and gives it a fresh, grown-up twist with real tomato and basil instead of processed singles.
  • Slicing them into dippers makes them fun for kids and perfect for casual gatherings where people can grab and go.
  • You can have these on the table in twenty minutes, and they taste like you spent way more time on them.
02 -
  • Pat your tomato slices dry with a paper towel before adding them to the sandwich, or they'll release too much moisture and make the bread soggy.
  • Don't crank the heat too high or the bread will burn before the cheese melts, medium heat is your friend here.
  • Let the sandwiches rest for a minute after grilling so the cheese firms up just enough to hold together when you slice them.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat evenly and gives you the most consistent golden crust.
  • If you're making multiple sandwiches, work in batches and resist the urge to crowd the pan, it lowers the temperature and makes everything steam instead of crisp.
  • Warm your marinara in a small saucepan with a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes to give it a little extra personality.
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