Nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of homemade tomato soup paired with the ultimate comfort food: grilled cheese sandwiches! This classic American duo is not only a nostalgic favorite but also a quick and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. Imagine dipping a crispy, gooey grilled cheese into a velvety tomato soup, each bite bursting with rich flavors. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner idea or a delightful lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to elevate your culinary skills? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that will make your taste buds dance!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 slices of cheese
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Open the canned tomatoes and have your vegetable broth ready.
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-18 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the grilled cheese sandwiches. Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Place a skillet over medium heat. Put a slice of bread butter-side down, add a slice of cheese, and top with another bread slice, butter-side up.
- Grill the sandwich until golden brown on one side, then carefully flip and grill the other side until the cheese is melted and bread is crispy.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with the grilled cheese sandwiches.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and herbs. Fresh basil can elevate your soup to the next level, adding a vibrant aroma.
- Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese for your grilled cheese sandwiches. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix can create a unique flavor profile.
- Perfect Your Grilling Technique: Keep the heat at medium to ensure the bread toasts evenly without burning. Press down slightly on the sandwich with a spatula for a perfectly melted center.
- Blend to Your Preference: If you like a chunky soup, blend only half of the mixture. This gives you a delightful texture while still enjoying the rich flavors.
- Add Extra Veggies: Sneak in some chopped carrots or bell peppers into the soup for added nutrition and a pop of color.
- Serve with a Twist: For an extra kick, drizzle a little balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top of the soup before serving.
- Make It Ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it a perfect meal prep option!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
