There’s something heartwarming about the rich aroma of tomatoes roasting in the oven. The first time I made this Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese, I was transported back to my childhood, sitting at the kitchen table, eager for that first dip of crispy bread into the velvety goodness. This recipe is not just delicious; it’s incredibly simple! Bursting with the robust flavor of roasted tomatoes and balanced with a hint of balsamic sweetness, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner on a cool evening, this dish hits all the right notes. Plus, the satisfaction of pairing it with an extra-cheesy grilled cheese sandwich will delight both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into how to create this nostalgic masterpiece that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why is Easy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese a Must-Try?
Comfort food at its finest: This Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese is like a warm hug on a cold day, effortlessly bringing back childhood memories.
Simple preparation: Using just a few fresh ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, robust flavor: The roasted tomatoes combined with balsamic vinegar create a deep taste that’s hard to resist.
Versatile option: Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
Family-friendly appeal: Kids love the gooey, cheesy goodness of the grilled cheese, while adults savor the rich soup.
Quick and easy: Ready in no time, this dish allows you to serve an impressive meal without the fuss.
Dive into this delightful recipe and find out why it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Easy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese Ingredients
Unlock the comforting flavors with these easy-to-find ingredients.
For the Soup
• Tomatoes – Fresh or canned, they provide the main flavor base for the soup; San Marzano tomatoes are highly recommended for their quality.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Adds depth and acidity to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes; optional for a simpler taste.
• Olive Oil – Essential for roasting the tomatoes and sautéing onions, contributing healthy fats and flavor.
• Sugar – Helps to counteract the acidity of tomatoes for a slightly sweet soup; omit if using naturally sweeter tomatoes.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor, so don’t skip this key ingredient!
• Red Onions – Adds a nice sweetness and depth when sautéed; yellow or white onions can be used as substitutes if necessary.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Basil – Bring in freshness; can be blended in with the soup for additional flavor.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the soup for a velvety texture.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth – Provides a flavorful liquid base; chicken broth yields a richer taste.
• Cream – Offers a rich, creamy texture; feel free to omit for a vegan option.
For the Grilled Cheese
• Grated Mozzarella & Mature Cheddar – These melty cheeses are essential for that gooey goodness; any melty cheese can work beautifully here.
• Bread – Choose hearty options like sourdough or whole grain for best results in your grilled cheese sandwich.
Gather these ingredients for a cozy meal of Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese that warms hearts and stomachs!
How to Make Easy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese
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Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). This will create the perfect environment for roasting those luscious tomatoes, ensuring they’re beautifully caramelized.
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Roast the tomatoes in a baking dish, drizzled with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and salt. Let them work their magic for 25-30 minutes until they soften and develop a lovely golden color.
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Sauté finely chopped red onions in olive oil in a large pot until they’re translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and fresh basil, cooking just until the aroma fills your kitchen!
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Combine the roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth into the pot. Lower the heat, cover, and let everything simmer together for 10 minutes to meld those wonderful flavors.
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Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. Stir in cream for a luxurious texture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Prepare the grilled cheese by layering cheesy goodness between buttered slices of bread. Fry in a pan until golden brown and the cheese melts to perfection.
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Serve the soup drizzled with a touch of cream and topped with fresh basil, alongside that crispy grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Optional: Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese?
When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting duo, consider these delightful pairings that will take your meal to the next level.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the hearty texture enhances your soup’s creaminess, creating a delightful contrast. A crunchy sourdough or artisanal loaf adds an extra layer of warmth to your meal.
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Simple Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup, offering a crunchy element that brightens your plate. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a refreshing finish.
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Grilled Veggies: Roasted or grilled vegetables provide a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of tomato soup. Consider zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful addition to your dinner.
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Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs create a delightful experience for your taste buds. They’re perfect for dunking and adding an aromatic touch to your cozy meal.
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Cheesy Croutons: Transform leftover bread into crispy, cheesy croutons that can top your soup. Their cheesy crunch will add an irresistible layer of comfort to each spoonful.
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Fruit Salad: Fresh, seasonal fruits offer a sweet contrast to the savory soup, cleansing your palate and balancing the richness of grilled cheese. A mix of berries, melon, and citrus ensures every bite is refreshing.
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Hot Chocolate or Tea: Complements the meal’s warmth while offering a cozy drink option for both adult and child-sized comforts. A dark hot chocolate or soothing herbal tea can elevate your dining experience.
Indulge in these pairings, and you’ll create a heartwarming meal that everyone will cherish!
Expert Tips for Easy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese
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Choose Quality Tomatoes: Using San Marzano tomatoes elevates the flavor of your Easy Tomato Soup. Fresh tomatoes are delightful when in season, but canned are a perfectly easy alternative.
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Mind the Sugar: Be cautious with sugar; add just enough to balance acidity without making the soup overly sweet. Taste as you go along!
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Creamy Texture: For an ultra-smooth soup, always blend until completely smooth. This is essential for that velvety mouthfeel that complements the grilled cheese perfectly.
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Grate Your Cheese: Grated cheese melts more evenly in your grilled cheese than slices. It also allows for a melodious blend of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.
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Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add fresh or dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the soup for an extra flavor boost.
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Perfect the Grilled Cheese: Use medium heat to cook your grilled cheese, ensuring the bread is perfectly golden while the cheese melts inside without burning!
Easy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese Variations
Customize your cozy meal with delightful twists that will elevate your Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a warm, zingy surprise that dances on your taste buds. Adjust the spice according to your preference for a delightful kick!
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Herb Medley: Incorporate fresh thyme, oregano, or even a splash of dill to uplift the flavor profile. The addition of herbs will bring a garden-fresh simplicity to the creamy soup.
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Creamy Avocado: Top your soup with slices of avocado for a rich, buttery texture that pairs brilliantly with the tangy tomatoes. This change adds an exciting, creamy twist that’s sure to impress!
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Cheesy Surprise: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack or gouda in your grilled cheese for an unexpected flavor bomb. The unique taste will add a fun twist to your classic sandwich.
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Roasted Garlic: Prior to blending, roast a whole bulb of garlic and mix it into the soup for a deep, sweet flavor. The caramelized garlic enhances the overall richness and warmth of the dish.
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Vegan Delight: For a plant-based version, substitute cream with coconut milk and cheese with a dairy-free alternative. You won’t sacrifice flavor while keeping it healthy and wholesome!
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Veggie Boost: Stir in some diced carrots, celery, or spinach during the sautéing phase for added nutrition and texture. This veggie boost will make your soup even heartier and more satisfying.
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Crispy Toppings: Top your soup with croutons or toasted nuts for some satisfying crunch and additional flavor dimensions. It’s a fun way to switch up the texture of your comforting dish!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese in advance makes mealtime effortless, especially on busy weeknights! You can roast the tomatoes, sauté the onions, and blend the soup up to 24 hours ahead. Simply refrigerate the blended soup in an airtight container; this will help preserve its rich flavors. The grilled cheese components can also be prepped: slice your bread and cheese and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, all you need to do is reheat the soup on the stove and grill the cheese until it’s perfectly melty and golden. This way, you can enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Easy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese
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Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.
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Freezer: Freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop.
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Grilled Cheese: Best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet on medium-low to crisp up the bread.
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Combining: If storing soup and sandwiches together, keep them separate to avoid sogginess. Enjoy the delightful combination of your Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese at its best!
Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs
What kind of tomatoes should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using San Marzano tomatoes for their superior flavor, but fresh tomatoes work wonderfully too. If you’re using canned tomatoes, make sure they are whole or crushed for the best taste!
How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
You can store the Easy Tomato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, and you might want to add a splash of broth or water to bring back its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze the soup?
Very easily! Portion the soup into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then gently reheat on the stovetop until warm.
What if my soup is too acidic?
If you find your soup is too acidic, don’t worry! You can add a little more sugar, a tablespoon at a time, to balance the flavors. Alternatively, a splash of cream can also help mellow the acidity and create a rich, creamy finish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This soup is vegetarian-friendly, and you can make it vegan by omitting the cream and ensuring the broth is vegetable-based. Always check for any allergies, especially if you’re using store-bought broth or bread that may contain gluten.
What’s the best way to reheat grilled cheese leftovers?
For the best grilled cheese experience, reheat leftovers in a skillet on medium-low heat. This method crisps up the bread nicely while melted cheese revives that gooey goodness. If you heat it in the microwave, it could become soggy, which isn’t as delightful!
Enjoy every comforting spoonful! Remember, the more the merrier!
Comforting Easy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Roast the tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and salt for 25-30 minutes.
- Sauté finely chopped red onions in olive oil until translucent, then add minced garlic and basil.
- Combine roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth in the pot and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Blend the mixture until smooth, stir in cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer cheese between buttered slices of bread and fry in a pan until golden brown.
- Serve the soup drizzled with cream and fresh basil, alongside the grilled cheese.