Description
A comforting classic tomato soup paired with crispy, buttery grilled cheese croutons for a cozy and satisfying meal. This easy-to-make recipe blends the rich flavors of simmered tomatoes and aromatic garlic with creamy texture, complemented by crisp, cheesy croutons that add a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
For the Tomato Soup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 800 g canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
For the Grilled Cheese Croutons
- 4 slices bread
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Simmer Soup: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Blend Soup: Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the soup until smooth. Return to pot and stir in heavy cream if using, then keep warm on low heat.
- Prepare Grilled Cheese: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place cheese slices between two bread slices, with the buttered sides facing out, to make sandwiches.
- Cook Sandwiches: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Grill each sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Cut into Croutons: Remove grilled cheese sandwiches from skillet and cut into bite-sized cubes to serve as croutons.
- Serve: Ladle the tomato soup into bowls and top with the grilled cheese croutons. Enjoy immediately for a warm, delicious meal.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for added flavor by stirring it into the soup before blending or using as a garnish.
- Substitute heavy cream with milk for a lighter, lower-fat version of the soup.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during simmering.
- Grilled cheese croutons can be made with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
