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Bowl of tomato soup with grilled cheese sandwich on a wooden table

Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese

A comforting and classic dish, this easy tomato soup with grilled cheese combines rich flavors and cozy satisfaction for a delightful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tomato Soup
  • 1.5 kg 1½ kg (3 lbs) of fresh tomatoes Juicy, ripe tomatoes add a fresh and tangy base.
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar Provides sweetness and acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Rich, fruity flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Balances the acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Elevates the natural flavors.
  • 2 medium red onions, finely chopped Adds sweet and aromatic depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds fragrant flavor.
  • 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves Brings vibrant herbal freshness.
  • 2 teaspoons tomato paste Enhances tomato flavor.
  • 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth Adds depth.
  • 0.5 cup cream Makes the soup creamy.
  • salt and black pepper Use to taste for seasoning.
  • fresh basil for garnishing A few leaves to serve.
For the Grilled Cheese
  • 2 slices bread Per person for sandwiches.
  • 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese For a cheesy delight.
  • 2 cups grated mature cheddar cheese For a rich flavor.
  • butter For grilling the bread.

Method
 

Roasting the Tomatoes
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F.
  2. Place the fresh tomatoes in a roasting tray. If using canned tomatoes, be sure to include all the juices.
  3. Add the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and salt to the tray. Stir until well combined.
  4. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are broken down and caramelized.
Preparing the Soup Base
  1. Heat some olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the finely chopped red onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and fresh basil, cooking for another minute.
  4. Add the roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar, stirring well.
  5. Pour in the broth and mix to combine.
  6. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
Blending the Soup
  1. Remove from the heat and blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
  2. Stir in the cream and season to taste with salt and black pepper.
Making the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
  1. Mix the grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese together.
  2. For each sandwich, add ½ cup of cheese mixture to half the slices of bread, top with remaining slices.
  3. Butter both sides of each sandwich generously.
  4. Cook in a non-stick pan over medium heat until cheese is melted and both sides are golden brown.
Serving
  1. Serve the tomato soup hot, garnished with cream and fresh basil.
  2. Pair each bowl with crispy grilled cheese sandwiches.

Notes

To enhance flavors, add red pepper flakes for a kick. For a chunky soup, reserve some tomatoes before blending. Use different cheeses for unique grilled cheese variations.