There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of tomato soup paired with a crispy, gooey grilled cheese sandwich.
This classic combo is not only nostalgic but also incredibly satisfying any time of year.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal for a rainy day or a quick dinner solution, grilled cheese and tomato soup has you covered.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a creamy tomato soup and toast the perfect grilled cheese.
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This recipe is a must-try because it combines the rich, savory flavors of tomato soup with the irresistible crunch and meltiness of grilled cheese.
The soup is made from whole canned tomatoes, which means you’re getting a bold tomato flavor without much fuss.
Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
The addition of fresh basil and parmesan cheese elevates the soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Trust me, once you try this comforting duo, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients
To make the perfect grilled cheese and tomato soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces (800 g) canned whole peeled tomatoes, do not drain
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 ¾ cup (420 ml) vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil
- ¼ cup (21 g) shredded parmesan cheese
You can also add your favorite bread and cheese for grilling, like sourdough or cheddar, depending on your personal preference!
How To Make Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Step 1: Make the Tomato Soup
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
The smell will be incredible as the onion starts to cook!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Garlic adds such great flavor to our soup, so don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Next, pour in the canned whole peeled tomatoes (with their juices), dried oregano, kosher salt, granulated sugar, and ground black pepper.
The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Stir everything together and let it cook for about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Vegetable Stock
Pour in the vegetable stock and give everything a good stir.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes.
This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Once the soup is done cooking, you can blend it using an immersion blender for a smooth texture, or you can transfer it to a regular blender (be careful, it’s hot!).
Blend until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Stir in Basil and Parmesan
After blending, return the soup to the pot (if you used a regular blender) and stir in the fresh chopped basil and shredded parmesan cheese.
Let it simmer for a few more minutes while you prepare the grilled cheese.
Step 7: Prepare the Grilled Cheese
To make the grilled cheese, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Take your favorite bread and add your choice of cheese in between two slices.
Butter the outside of the bread for an extra crispy crust.
Step 8: Grill to Perfection
Place the sandwich into the preheated skillet and grill until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Press down slightly with a spatula to ensure even grilling.
You want that perfect ooey-gooey cheese melt inside!
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once your grilled cheese is beautifully golden and the cheese is melted, remove it from the skillet.
Slice it in half and serve it alongside your delicious tomato soup.
Dip, savor, and enjoy every bite!
Expert Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different types of bread and cheese! A nice crusty bread or a sharp cheddar can add unique flavors.
- If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for some heat.
- For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream after blending.
- Make sure your pan is hot enough before grilling the cheese to get that nice crispy texture.
Variations and Customizations
- Add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the soup for added nutrition.
- Mix in some cooked pasta or rice to make the soup heartier.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to the soup before serving.
- Try using different herbs like thyme or parsley to give the soup your personal touch.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is rare!), you can store the soup and grilled cheese separately.
Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
For the grilled cheese, it’s best to consume it immediately for optimal taste and texture.
You can reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for the soup?
Yes, you can! If you have fresh tomatoes, you can use about 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes.
Just blanch them to remove the skins, chop them up, and follow the same steps as for the canned tomatoes.
Is there a vegan alternative for the parmesan cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute the parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy, or use a vegan cheese alternative.
How do I make the grilled cheese even more special?
You can spread some pesto, mustard, or even a slice of tomato inside your grilled cheese for added flavor.
Adding different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack can also make it more exciting.
Can I freeze the soup for later?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Make sure it’s completely cooled, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Conclusion
There you have it! A simple, delicious recipe for grilled cheese and tomato soup that is bound to warm your heart.
This classic combo is perfect for any occasion and can be customized to suit your taste.
The process is straightforward, and the end result is truly satisfying.
Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get cooking.
Enjoy your homemade grilled cheese and tomato soup!
