This Bacon Tomato Grilled Cheese Sandwich brings together everything you love about a classic grilled cheese with the fresh taste of summer tomatoes and salty crisp bacon. It's a warm, melty comfort food sandwich with layers of flavor that are sure to satisfy every craving.
I've always loved a simple grilled cheese, but once I started adding bacon and fresh tomatoes, I knew it would become a favorite. The heirloom tomatoes are inspired by the ones I used in my Grilled Tomato and Brie Sandwiches, and just like that recipe, they bring a fresh from the garden flavor that's hard to beat!
Why You'll Love This Bacon Tomato Grilled Cheese
Crispy and Creamy: Buttery grilled bread, melty cheese, and crunchy bacon give this sandwich the perfect bite.
Hearty and Filling: It makes a satisfying lunch or dinner and pairs beautifully with a warm bowl of tomato soup.
Simple and Fresh: Easy to make with fresh ingredients that really shine.
Key Ingredients
Butter: For crisp, golden bread that’s perfectly grilled.
Artisan Bread: A sturdy loaf like Tuscan Pane holds up well to the juicy tomato and melty cheese. I like it plain or with rosemary.
Thick-Cut Bacon: Adds a salty crunch that balances the creamy cheese and soft tomato.
Heirloom Tomatoes: Juicy and flavorful, these bring a burst of summer freshness.
Swiss Cheese: Melts smoothly and gives the sandwich a creamy texture.
Smoked Pepper Jack Cheese: Adds a hint of spice and smokiness that makes this sandwich irresistible.
Ingredient Substitutions
Cheddar or Mozzarella instead of Swiss or Pepper Jack if you want a milder sandwich.
Turkey Bacon if you want to lighten it up a little.
Avocado slices instead of tomato for a creamy variation that’s still fresh and delicious.
Easy Recipe Variations
Add caramelized onions for a sweet and savory twist.
Use mayonnaise instead of butter for extra crispness on the grilled side.
Swap bacon for taco meat for a fun Tex-Mex twist.
Top Tips for the Best Sandwich
Press it: Use a sandwich press or small skillet to get even grilling and melty goodness.
Drain the tomatoes: Slice and lay them on paper towels for 10 minutes to pull out moisture.
Cook low and slow: This ensures the cheese melts before the bread browns too fast.
How to Store
If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), wrap the sandwich in foil and refrigerate. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to re-crisp the bread and re-melt the cheese.
More Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipes To Try
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Bacon Tomato Grilled Cheese Sandwich
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Ingredients
- 8 slices thick cut bacon cooked
- 8 slices artisan bread
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes cut into 8 slices
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 4 ounces smoked jack cheese grated
- 4 ounces swiss cheese grated
- 2 scallions thinly sliced
- maldon salt (optional)
Instructions
- Spread ½ tablespoon of mayonnaise over one side of each slice of bread.
- Place ¼ cup of cheese on the bottom slice of bread. Next, add 1 slice of the bacon and top with 1 tablespoon of cheese. Layer two tomato slices on top of the cheese and top with 1 more tablespoon of cheese. Top with 1 more bacon slice and 2 more tablespoons of cheese. Repeat this step for all 4 sandwiches.
- Place the sandwich on the grill and cover with the second slice of bread. Cook on medium low for 3 minutes, or until sandwich is golden on the bottom and the cheese is melting.
- Flip the sandwich and cook for another 3 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese has melted. Press the sandwich with a small heavy cast iron pan if needed to aid in the cheese melting.
Shelby Law Ruttan says
One of my favorites. A delicious combination of cheese and bacon with buttery crispy bread and fresh tomato slices made the perfect summertime lunch!