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Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

creamy tomato soup with grilled cheese croutons - featured image

A comforting and creamy tomato soup paired with crispy, melty grilled cheese croutons, perfect for a quick and cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 28 oz (800 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • A small handful fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar (optional)
  • 4 slices thick-sliced white or sourdough bread
  • 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until translucent and soft.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and 3 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove from heat and puree the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. If using a regular blender, blend in batches carefully.
  6. Return the soup to the pot and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add 1 teaspoon sugar if the soup is too acidic.
  7. Warm gently over low heat for 5 minutes without boiling.
  8. While the soup simmers, butter one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle grated cheddar on the unbuttered side of two slices, then top with the other two slices, butter side out.
  9. Toast sandwiches in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
  10. Let sandwiches cool slightly, then chop into bite-sized croutons.
  11. Ladle soup into bowls and top with grilled cheese croutons before serving.

Notes

If soup is too thick after blending, add a splash of broth or water to loosen. Keep heat moderate when grilling sandwiches to melt cheese without burning bread. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese. For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy tomato soup, grilled cheese croutons, comfort food, easy soup recipe, homemade tomato soup, quick dinner, cozy meal