Caprese Grilled Cheese Dippers (Printable version)

Golden, melty sandwiches with fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil. Sliced into dippable strips with marinara.

# Needed ingredients:

→ 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 - 0.5 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

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
02 - Lay out bread slices and spread softened butter on one side of each slice.
03 - On the unbuttered side of half the 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 enhanced 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 sandwich into 3 to 4 strips.
08 - Serve warm strips with a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The combination of warm melty mozzarella and bright fresh basil hits every comfort button
  • Dipping strips in marinara makes these instantly interactive and fun for everyone
02 -
  • Patting tomato slices dry with paper towels prevents your bread from getting soggy
  • Low and slow cooking beats high heat every time for achieving that perfect melt without burning
03 -
  • Use a serrated bread knife with a gentle sawing motion for clean slices that do not squish the fillings
  • Keep assembled sandwiches covered while you cook in batches to prevent the bread from drying out
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