A vibrant twist on the classic Caprese, this grilled sandwich pairs juicy ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil with a luscious ricotta herb spread—all pressed between golden, crisp sourdough slices. It’s a warm, comforting take on a timeless Italian combination, ideal for lunch, light dinner, or a gourmet snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sandwich elevates the traditional Caprese salad into a satisfying grilled meal. The ricotta-basil spread adds richness and depth, while the grilled sourdough offers a crunchy exterior and soft interior. It’s simple yet elegant, ready in minutes, and fully customizable. Whether served on its own or with a soup or salad, it’s an instant favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 6 slices fresh mozzarella
• 1 handful fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze (optional)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese with chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
2. Brush one side of each slice of sourdough bread lightly with olive oil.
3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
4. Spread the basil ricotta mixture on the un-oiled side of two slices of bread.
5. Layer mozzarella slices, tomato rounds, and fresh basil leaves on top of the ricotta.
6. Top with the remaining bread slices, oiled side facing out.
7. Grill the sandwiches for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden and the cheese has begun to melt.
8. Slice in half and serve warm. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 6 minutes. Total time: about 16 minutes.

Variations

• Add protein: Include sliced grilled chicken or prosciutto for a heartier option.
• Cheese swap: Use burrata, goat cheese, or provolone for different textures and flavors.
• Bread options: Try ciabatta, focaccia, or whole grain bread as an alternative to sourdough.
• Pesto upgrade: Add a thin layer of pesto for a punch of basil and garlic.
• Roasted tomato: Use oven-roasted tomatoes for a richer, deeper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh. If needed, you can store grilled sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat for 3–4 minutes per side or in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I make the ricotta spread ahead of time?

Yes, the basil ricotta spread can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container.

Is this sandwich vegetarian?

Yes, it is completely vegetarian. To make it vegan, use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is strongly recommended for best flavor and color, but a small pinch of dried basil can be used in the ricotta in a pinch.

What’s the best bread for this sandwich?

Sourdough works beautifully due to its sturdy structure and flavor, but any rustic bread like ciabatta or French bread is a good alternative.

Can I make this sandwich in a panini press?

Yes, a panini press will create an evenly crisp texture and help melt the cheese more quickly.

What can I serve with this sandwich?

It pairs well with a light green salad, tomato soup, or a chilled pasta salad.

Should I peel the tomatoes?

No, there’s no need to peel the tomatoes. Choose firm, ripe ones for the best texture.

Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?

Yes, store-bought glaze works well and adds a nice sweet acidity. You can also reduce balsamic vinegar at home to make your own.

How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

Use a thin layer of ricotta, avoid overly juicy tomatoes, and grill the sandwich right before serving.

Can I use another type of cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, whipped feta or cream cheese blended with herbs can be used as a flavorful spread substitute.

Conclusion

The grilled Caprese sandwich with basil ricotta spread is a fresh, satisfying take on a classic flavor pairing. Its creamy interior, crispy exterior, and bold Italian-inspired ingredients make it a standout dish that comes together quickly and delights every time. Whether you’re entertaining or enjoying a solo lunch, this sandwich delivers both comfort and sophistication.

Print