Name: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 teaspoons Minced Garlic; 2 14-ounce cans Diced Tomatoes (Drained, but reserve the liquid.); ½ teaspoon Dried Thyme; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 2 tablespoons Basil Puree or Fresh Chopped Basil; 2 cups Chicken Broth; 1 cup Reserved Tomato Liquid (From the can.); ⅓ cup Heavy Whipping Cream; to taste Garlic Salt and Pepper; Croutons; Parmesan Cheese (Optional.); Bread; Provolone Cheese; Cheddar Cheese; Butter

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There’s nothing quite like a cozy bowl of Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup to warm you up on a chilly winter evening. Growing up, this dish was a staple in my home, often enjoyed on those lazy Sundays when we huddled together, each of us diving into the comforting embrace of creamy soup paired with crispy, gooey sandwiches. I remember the aroma of sautéing garlic wafting through the house, a prelude to the deliciousness that was about to unfold. It was a simple yet profound experience, one that melded flavors and memories together, making each bite taste like home. Now, as I recreate this classic, I find joy in sharing it with my family, ensuring that the tradition continues, one satisfying spoonful and bite at a time.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
50 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
25 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Blender, Cutting Board

Why You Need This Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

It’s All About Comfort

There’s a reason why Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup is referred to as comfort food. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the satisfying crunch of grilled bread creates a perfect harmony that soothes the soul. Each bite brings a smile, reminding you of simpler times.

Childhood Nostalgia

For many of us, this dish is steeped in nostalgia. It recalls memories of rainy days spent indoors, wrapped in blankets, and joyfully dipping sandwiches into warm soup. It’s a dish that evokes warmth, not just physically, but emotionally.

Perfect for Any Meal

This dish transcends the boundaries of lunch and dinner. While it’s a classic lunchtime staple, it also makes a hearty dinner option, easily complemented by a fresh salad or fruit for a complete meal.

Easy to Make

Not only is it delicious, but the ease of preparation is unmatched. With simple ingredients and quick steps, even novice cooks can whip up this dish and impress their loved ones. There’s something gratifying about creating a meal that looks and tastes so good while being so easy to prepare.

Endless Customization

The beauty of Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup lies in its versatility. You can experiment with different cheeses or add herbs and spices to the soup for an extra kick. This allows every cook to put their unique spin on a classic dish, making it feel fresh every time.

A Family Favorite

This dish is not just food; it’s a way to bring family together. Whether you’re enjoying it with kids after school or serving it during gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit that everyone loves.

What’s In This Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

When it comes to the ingredients for Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in creating a comforting, delicious dish. You’ll find that the combination of ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy additions makes for a flavorful bowl of soup, while the sandwiches provide a crunchy counterpart that perfectly balances the meal.

4 teaspoons minced garlic: Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to the soup.
2 (14-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, drained: The main ingredient that forms the base of the soup, providing rich, sweet, and tangy flavors.
½ teaspoon thyme, dried: This herb brings earthiness and enhances the overall taste of the soup.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons basil puree or fresh chopped basil: Basil brings a fresh and fragrant note to the soup.
2 cups chicken broth: The base liquid that gives the soup its comforting consistency.
1 cup reserved tomato liquid from the can: Enhances the tomato flavor and adds to the soup’s overall texture.
⅓ cup heavy whipping cream: Provides a creamy texture and richness to the soup.
Garlic salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
Croutons: For a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy soup.
Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty flavor when garnished on top.
Bread: The base for the grilled cheese, providing crunch and substance.
Provolone cheese: A melty cheese that enhances the sandwich’s flavor.
Cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp and creamy bite that pairs perfectly with the bread.
Butter: Used for grilling the bread, ensuring a crispy, golden exterior.

How to Assemble Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Making Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup is an enjoyable process, especially as the aroma fills your kitchen. I love the way the sounds of sizzling butter and bubbling soup combine to create a sense of warmth and comfort. Follow these steps to recreate this nostalgic dish, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal everyone will love.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add 4 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about one minute. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent burning and to allow the flavors to bloom.
Next, add in 2 cans of diced tomatoes (drained but reserve the liquid) along with ½ teaspoon dried thyme and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Stir these ingredients together and cook for about ten minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the flavors to meld.
Once the tomatoes have cooked down, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and the reserved tomato liquid. Stir well, and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
After the soup has simmered, season with garlic salt and pepper to taste. Then, carefully transfer the soup to a blender. Blend in small batches until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour the soup back into a large serving bowl, ensuring all the soup is blended.
Mix in ⅓ cup of heavy whipping cream into the blended soup, stirring until well combined. Taste the soup once more, adjusting the seasoning as necessary.
For the grilled cheese, heat a skillet over medium heat. Take two slices of bread and butter one side of each slice. Place one slice butter-side down in the skillet.
Layer 1 slice of cheddar cheese and 1 slice of provolone cheese on the bread in the skillet, then top with the other slice of bread, butter-side up. Cook until golden brown, about two minutes per side. Flip carefully to ensure even cooking and melted cheese.
Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet and cut it in half. Serve it alongside the warm, creamy tomato soup. Top the soup with croutons and a sprinkle of optional Parmesan cheese for garnish.
Enjoy this nostalgic dish, allowing the flavors to transport you back to cozy times spent with family and friends.

Things Worth Knowing

Texture Tips: For the soup, blend until fully smooth to achieve that creamy texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of it and leave the rest for texture.
Cheese Melting: Use room temperature cheese for your grilled cheese to ensure it melts smoothly.
Grilling Bread: Don’t rush the grilling process. A lower heat allows the bread to toast evenly without burning.
Fresh Herbs: If using fresh herbs, add them towards the end of cooking for maximum flavor.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Experimenting with Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup can lead to some delicious variations. Here are some tips to make this dish your own:

Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Defrost before reheating.
Variations: Try adding in roasted red peppers or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
Herbs: Feel free to add in fresh basil or parsley during the blending process for added freshness.
Serve with: Consider pairing this with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Serve Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Serving Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad or a side of crispy baked potatoes for a more filling meal.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, cozy winter nights, or even casual lunch gatherings with friends.
Serving Style: Present the soup in large bowls and cut the grilled cheese into triangles for easy dipping.
Garnishing: Top the soup with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-style touch.
Storage Tips: Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Seasonal Pairings: While perfect for winter, this dish remains a delightful comfort food option year-round.

FAQ

Absolutely! To make Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The flavor profile remains robust, ensuring you get that comforting bowl of soup without any meat products. You can also enhance the flavor by adding more herbs or vegetables. This way, you can still enjoy this classic dish while catering to vegetarian diets.

To store leftovers of your Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If you have leftover grilled cheese sandwiches, it’s best to eat them fresh, but you can still store them in the fridge for a day. Just remember they might lose some of that crispy texture.

Yes, Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup freezes very well! To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stovetop. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping or to have on hand for quick dinners!

For the best grilled cheese sandwich, I recommend using a hearty bread like sourdough, whole grain, or even a classic white bread. These types can hold their shape and provide a wonderful crunch when grilled. Additionally, they complement the melted cheddar and provolone cheeses beautifully. Experiment with different breads to find your favorite combination!

Conclusion

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup is a timeless comfort food that embodies warmth and nostalgia. The creamy soup paired with crispy, cheesy sandwiches makes for a meal that’s not only delicious but also brings back cherished memories. I encourage you to try making this dish at home and enjoy the delightful flavors and cozy moments it offers. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup combines creamy tomato soup with gooey, crispy sandwiches. Perfect for a cozy winter dinner, this easy weeknight meal is sure to satisfy your cravings!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 50

Total Time 55

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Chef's Knife
Wooden Spoon
Skillet
Blender
Cutting Board

Ingredients

4 teaspoons Minced Garlic
2 14-ounce cans Diced Tomatoes Drained, but reserve the liquid.
½ teaspoon Dried Thyme
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
2 tablespoons Basil Puree or Fresh Chopped Basil
2 cups Chicken Broth
1 cup Reserved Tomato Liquid From the can.
⅓ cup Heavy Whipping Cream
to taste Garlic Salt and Pepper
Croutons
Parmesan Cheese Optional.
Bread
Provolone Cheese
Cheddar Cheese
Butter

Instructions

1. Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add 4 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about one minute. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent burning and to allow the flavors to bloom.
2. Next, add in 2 cans of diced tomatoes (drained but reserve the liquid) along with ½ teaspoon dried thyme and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Stir these ingredients together and cook for about ten minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the flavors to meld.
3. Once the tomatoes have cooked down, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and the reserved tomato liquid. Stir well, and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
4. After the soup has simmered, season with garlic salt and pepper to taste. Then, carefully transfer the soup to a blender. Blend in small batches until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour the soup back into a large serving bowl, ensuring all the soup is blended.
5. Mix in ⅓ cup of heavy whipping cream into the blended soup, stirring until well combined. Taste the soup once more, adjusting the seasoning as necessary.
6. For the grilled cheese, heat a skillet over medium heat. Take two slices of bread and butter one side of each slice. Place one slice butter-side down in the skillet.
7. Layer 1 slice of cheddar cheese and 1 slice of provolone cheese on the bread in the skillet, then top with the other slice of bread, butter-side up. Cook until golden brown, about two minutes per side. Flip carefully to ensure even cooking and melted cheese.
8. Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet and cut it in half. Serve it alongside the warm, creamy tomato soup. Top the soup with croutons and a sprinkle of optional Parmesan cheese for garnish.
9. Enjoy this nostalgic dish, allowing the flavors to transport you back to cozy times spent with family and friends.

Notes

Tip 1: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
Tip 2: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Defrost before reheating.
Tip 3: Try adding in roasted red peppers or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Tip 4: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
Tip 5: Feel free to add in fresh basil or parsley during the blending process for added freshness.
Tip 6: Consider pairing this with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.