Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
Craving comfort without the fuss? This Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese recipe is a simple dinner recipe that delivers classic flavor. You can whip up this cozy meal in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend lunch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a smoother soup.
- Fresh Basil: Dried basil works in a pinch (use 1/3 the amount).
- Vegetable Broth: Chicken broth is a fine substitute.
- Bread for Grilled Cheese: Sourdough or challah elevate your sandwich.
- Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend are great choices.
Ingredients:
For the Tomato Basil Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for creaminess)
For the Grilled Cheese:
- 8 slices of your favorite bread
- 4 slices of cheese (e.g., cheddar, Monterey Jack)
- 2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter, softened
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 (depending on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Large pot, blender (immersion or standing), large skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics for the Soup
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Soup Base
Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Blend Until Smooth
Carefully transfer the hot soup to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until the soup reaches your desired consistency, from chunky to completely smooth. Return the soup to the pot if you used a standing blender.
4. Finish the Soup
Stir in the chopped fresh basil, sugar (if using), and heavy cream (if using). Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep the soup warm over low heat while you prepare the grilled cheese.
5. Assemble Your Grilled Cheese
Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a large skillet over medium heat. Place a slice of cheese on each piece of bread.
6. Grill to Golden Perfection
Top each cheese-covered slice with another slice of bread, butter-side up. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melty and bubbly. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even grilling.
7. Serve Your Comfort Meal
Carefully slice each grilled cheese sandwich in half. Ladle the warm tomato basil soup into bowls. Serve your delicious, simple dinner recipe immediately, dipping the grilled cheese into the soup.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup while simmering.
- Extra Veggies: Sauté diced carrots or bell peppers with the onion.
- Different Cheese: Try smoked gouda or provolone in your grilled cheese.
- Herby Grilled Cheese: Mix dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the butter before spreading on the bread.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover tomato basil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm. Grilled cheese is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in the fridge for a day and reheat in a pan for crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use fresh tomatoes for the soup?
Yes, you can! You’ll need about 2 pounds of ripe fresh tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped. Roast them first for deeper flavor.
What kind of bread is best for grilled cheese?
Hearty white bread, sourdough, or even brioche work wonderfully. The key is a bread that can hold up to grilling and gets crispy.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors often deepen overnight. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.
How do I prevent my grilled cheese from getting soggy?
Make sure your pan isn’t too hot, cooking slowly allows the cheese to melt and the bread to crisp without burning.
Is it okay to freeze tomato basil soup?
Yes, tomato basil soup freezes well for up to 3 months. If you added cream, it might separate slightly upon thawing, but a good stir should fix it.
What other simple dinner recipes pair well with this?
This meal is quite complete on its own, but a light side salad with a vinaigrette dressing would be a nice addition.
