Description
This grilled cheese tomato soup recipe truly encapsulates simple, nourishing goodness. It is incredibly easy, quick and satisfying, offering pure comfort, and is packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a timeless favorite for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onio
2 cloves garlic
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
0.5 cup heavy cream (optional)
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
8 slices good quality bread
0.5 cup unsalted butter
8 slices cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender (in batches) and blend
- Stir in heavy cream, if using, until combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Keep warm while you make the grilled cheese
- Generously butter one side of each slice of bread
- Place a slice of bread (butter-side down) in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Top with two slices of cheese, then another slice of bread (butter-side up)
- Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Press gently with a spatula
- Slice the grilled cheese sandwiches in half. Serve immediately with the warm tomato soup
Notes
Feel free to customize your grilled cheese tomato soup. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. For the cheese, try provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick in your grilled cheese. Use whole wheat or gluten-free bread for the grilled cheese part. Make the soup dairy-free with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream. Add red pepper flakes to the soup for a hint of heat. Roasted red peppers blended into the soup intensify the flavor of your grilled cheese tomato soup. A pinch of sugar balances the acidity in the tomatoes.
Always use a good quality, sturdy bread for your grilled cheese to prevent sogginess. Cook the grilled cheese on medium-low heat to ensure a golden crust and fully melted cheese without burning. Do not skip the immersion blender for the soup; it creates a wonderfully smooth texture. Use fire-roasted crushed tomatoes for a deeper flavor in your grilled cheese tomato soup. Fresh basil garnish adds a lovely fresh touch.
Keep the tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Grilled cheese is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them separately from the soup. Reheat the grilled cheese in a dry skillet or toaster oven for crispness. Reheat the tomato soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This classic grilled cheese tomato soup is truly a meal in itself. However, you can enhance it further. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. Some fresh apple slices or a handful of grapes add a touch of sweetness. For a heartier meal, serve a side of roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup soup, 1 sandwich
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 12.5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 17.5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: grilled cheese, tomato soup, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, vegetarian