Grilled Cheese Recipe

Sandwich

1. 1

   Prepare tomato

   Wash the tomato and slice it into 1/8- to 1/4-inch (3–6 mm) thick slices. Lay slices on a paper towel, sprinkle with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper, then blot gently with another paper towel to remove excess moisture.

2. 2

   Assemble sandwiches

   Spread approximately 1/2 tablespoon of softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice (total 2 tbs). If you prefer, brush the outside with 1 tsp olive oil instead of butter. Place two slices buttered-side-down on a clean work surface. On each, layer 2 slices cheddar, then about 1/2 cup shredded or torn mozzarella (divide the 1 cup between the two sandwiches), then arrange tomato slices in a single layer over the cheese. Close each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, buttered-side-up.

3. 3

   Cook sandwiches

   Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low to medium heat. Place one or two sandwiches in the pan (do not overcrowd). Cook for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Press down lightly with a spatula, then carefully flip the sandwich and cook another 3–4 minutes until the second side is golden and cheese is fully melted. If the bread is browning before cheese melts, lower the heat and cover the pan briefly (30–60 seconds) to trap heat and encourage melting.

4. 4

   Finish and serve

   Remove sandwiches from the pan and let rest 1 minute. Slice each sandwich diagonally, serve immediately while hot and gooey. Taste and add more salt or pepper to taste if desired.