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Sandwich • American

Caprese Bacon Melt with Garlic Basil Aioli Recipe

Everything you love about a melty grilled cheese sandwich with crispy bacon and Italian inspired twist! Light and fresh flavors of fresh mozzarella, basil, and garlic stacked with juicy tomato and smoky thick cut bacon.

4.9 from 162 votes
30 mins
Total Time
4
servings
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Caprese Bacon Melt with Garlic Basil Aioli

How to Make the Best Caprese Bacon Melt with Garlic Basil Aioli

This Caprese Bacon Melt with Garlic Basil Aioli is the perfect upgrade to a classic grilled cheese. The combination of crispy thick-cut bacon, fresh mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes creates a sandwich that’s both elegant and comforting. The garlic basil aioli ties everything together with bright, aromatic flavors that elevate the entire dish.

What makes this sandwich special is how it brings together the best of Italian flavors with the comfort of a warm, melty grilled cheese. The heirloom tomatoes add freshness and color, while the multigrain bread provides a sturdy base that holds up to the toppings without falling apart. Whether you’re making this for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, it comes together in just 30 minutes from start to finish.

The key to success is not rushing the cooking process—let each side get golden brown and crispy so the cheese melts perfectly and the bread gets that satisfying crunch. Serve it immediately while the cheese is still warm and gooey, and don’t forget to cut it in half so you can see those beautiful layers. This is comfort food with an Italian twist that everyone will love.

Caprese Bacon Melt with Garlic Basil Aioli

Caprese Bacon Melt with Garlic Basil Aioli

Everything you love about a melty grilled cheese sandwich with crispy bacon and Italian inspired twist! Light and fresh flavors of fresh mozzarella, basil, and garlic stacked with juicy tomato and smoky thick cut bacon.

4.9 from 162 votes
CourseSandwich
CuisineAmerican
Keywordbacon melt, caprese sandwiches, melt sandwiches, toasted sandwiches
Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings4 servings
Calories974kcal
AuthorRare Ivy
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Ingredients

For the Aioli

For the Sandwiches

Instructions

Prepare the Bacon

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the bacon on a parchment lined baking sheet.
  2. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes depending on the thickness of the bacon slices, rotating the pan halfway through cooking.

Make the Aioli

  1. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and thinly sliced basil.
  2. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Assemble and Cook

  1. In a cast iron pan or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add two slices of bread, dry side down. Layer tomato slices on the bread and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Add bacon and mozzarella on top of the tomatoes. Top with another slice of bread with the garlic aioli side facing in.
  4. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and repeat for the other side.
  5. Transfer the cooked sandwiches to a cutting board and repeat the process for the remaining ingredients.
  6. Cut each sandwich in half and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use thick cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
  • Fresh basil is essential—dried basil won't give you the same bright, fresh flavor.
  • You can prepare the garlic basil aioli up to 2 hours ahead of time.
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