and Tomato Grilled Cheese Recipe
If you’ve ever craved the kind of comfort food that instantly brings a smile to your face, this and Tomato Grilled Cheese is about to become your new obsession. Luscious avocado, juicy tomato, and oozy mozzarella come together between slices of crispy, golden bread for a flavor experience that’s creamy, savory, and bright, all at once. Each bite offers layers of melted goodness and fresh vibrancy, making this sandwich just as welcome for a cozy lunch as it is for a weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never look at grilled cheese the same way again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about this recipe is how these simple, high-quality ingredients each play a crucial role—crispness from the bread, richness from the avocado and cheese, a tangy punch from tomato and pesto, with a hint of fresh basil to tie it all together. Here’s what you’ll be grabbing for your and Tomato Grilled Cheese.
- Sourdough bread: Sturdy and tangy, it crisps up perfectly and stands up to all those juicy fillings (but use whatever bread you love most!).
- Ripe avocado: Adds a buttery, creamy layer that makes every bite irresistible.
- Medium-sized tomato: Go for heirloom if you can—they’re extra flavorful and juicy, making the sandwich sing.
- Fresh mozzarella: Melts into stretchy ribbons for that dreamy, classic grilled cheese texture.
- Pesto: Whether homemade or from a jar, a swipe of pesto brightens up the richness with herby, garlicky notes.
- Olive oil or butter: Either works for crisping up your bread—olive oil for a lighter bite, butter for extra richness.
- Salt and pepper: Don’t skip this—seasoning the layers helps every flavor pop!
- Fresh basil leaves (optional): A fragrant finishing touch, especially if you want a little extra herby lift at the end.
How to Make and Tomato Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by getting everything ready—a few minutes of thoughtful prep makes assembly a breeze. Slice your avocado and tomato into even slices, and cut the mozzarella so it melts evenly. Keep all your components within easy reach, because once the sandwiches start grilling, everything moves quickly!
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
Take your first slice of bread and spread a thin, even layer of pesto all the way to the edges—this acts as a zesty, herby base. Carefully layer on the creamy avocado slices, followed by juicy tomato and then generous rounds of mozzarella. Sprinkle with salt and pepper (this little step makes all the difference), and if you’re a basil fan, tuck in a few leaves for an aromatic punch.
Step 3: Close the Sandwich
Top everything with your second slice of bread, pressing gently so the fillings settle snugly together. This not only keeps things tidy in the pan, but helps all those beautiful flavors blend as the cheese melts.
Step 4: Heat the Pan
Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add your olive oil or a generous swipe of softened butter—both will help your bread crisp up beautifully. Let the pan warm for a minute or two so the sandwich sizzles as soon as it hits the surface.
Step 5: Grill the Sandwich
Time for a little magic! Carefully place your constructed and Tomato Grilled Cheese into the hot skillet. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on the first side—peek underneath for that perfect golden crust—then use a spatula to gently flip. Don’t rush this step; a nice, slow crisp ensures a perfectly cooked sandwich.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Continue cooking the other side for another 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for a deeply golden exterior and mozzarella that’s melted into stringy goodness. Don’t worry if a little cheese escapes and crisps on the edge—those bits are chef’s treats!
Step 7: Serve
Lift your finished sandwich from the skillet, let it rest for a moment (if you can resist!), then slice in half for that irresistible ooze. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh basil if you like—a true and Tomato Grilled Cheese experience.
How to Serve and Tomato Grilled Cheese
Garnishes
Sprinkle torn basil leaves or an extra drizzle of pesto over your sandwich just before serving. You can also dust with cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat—the perfect simple enhancements to amplify every bite of your and Tomato Grilled Cheese.
Side Dishes
This sandwich is plenty comforting all on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the classics. Try a bowl of creamy tomato soup for dunking, a side salad with bright vinaigrette for balance, or even crisp kettle chips for extra crunch. Any of these help round out your and Tomato Grilled Cheese meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-worthy twist, slice the sandwiches into thirds or quarters and serve on a platter with dipping bowls of pesto or flavored mayo. Or, go gourmet with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a scatter of microgreens. However you present it, and Tomato Grilled Cheese is always a showstopper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover and Tomato Grilled Cheese (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature, then wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days, knowing the bread may soften but the flavors will deepen beautifully.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze extra sandwiches by letting them cool completely and wrapping tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that gorgeous crispness, reheat your sandwich in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat for several minutes per side. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the bread soggy—nothing beats a toasty skillet for reviving and Tomato Grilled Cheese perfection!
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella gives you that dreamy melt, feel free to swap in provolone, fontina, or even sharp cheddar for a different spin on your and Tomato Grilled Cheese.
What’s the best bread for this sandwich?
Sourdough is a favorite for its chew and tang, but any hearty sliced bread works well—think rye, whole wheat, or a rustic country loaf. The key is to pick a bread sturdy enough to handle all that delicious filling.
How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?
If you’re prepping in advance, toss avocado slices with a little lemon or lime juice before assembling your and Tomato Grilled Cheese. The citrus helps slow browning and adds a fresh note, too!
Can I make this vegan?
Yes you can! Choose dairy-free mozzarella and a vegan pesto, and swap the butter for a plant-based spread or use olive oil for grilling. The sandwich will still be creamy and packed with flavor.
How can I add protein?
If you want an extra protein boost, layer in a few thin slices of cooked chicken, turkey, or even crispy tempeh before grilling. It bulks up your and Tomato Grilled Cheese without overpowering those glorious main ingredients.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one sandwich that can win over any crowd, it’s this and Tomato Grilled Cheese. With its melt-in-your-mouth cheese, creamy avocado, and bright, juicy tomatoes, it’s comfort food with a fresh twist. I can’t wait for you to try it—let your taste buds dive in and see just how crave-worthy grilled cheese can be!
Print
and Tomato Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy delight of this avocado, melty mozzarella, and tomato grilled cheese. This sandwich offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any time of the day.
Ingredients
Sourdough Bread:
2 slices
Avocado:
1 ripe, sliced
Tomato:
1 medium-sized, sliced (heirloom preferred)
Fresh Mozzarella:
4 ounces, sliced
Pesto:
2 tablespoons
Olive Oil or Butter:
1 tablespoon
Salt and Pepper:
To taste
Fresh Basil Leaves:
Optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Slice avocado, tomato, and mozzarella. Set aside.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread pesto on one bread slice. Layer avocado, tomato, mozzarella. Season. Add basil.
- Close the Sandwich: Top with the second slice of bread.
- Heat the Pan: Heat oil or butter in a skillet.
- Grill the Sandwich: Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden. Flip and cook until cheese melts.
- Serve: Cut if desired, garnish with basil, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 530 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: grilled cheese, avocado, mozzarella, tomato, sandwich, comfort food
