Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup

Grilled cheese and tomato soup was my favorite rainy-day lunch growing up and now I still crave it whenever I need something warm and comforting. The way the cheese stretches with each bite and how it pairs so perfectly with the smooth tangy soup brings back memories of sitting by the window with a hot bowl and a buttery sandwich in hand.

Over time I’ve perfected my version with a crispy golden crust melty cheese that pulls just right and a homemade tomato soup that’s rich flavorful and so easy to pull together. This combo hits all the cozy notes and never fails to make any day feel a little bit better.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• For the Grilled Cheese:
• Bread – The foundation of the sandwich crispy on the outside and soft in the middle
• Butter – Adds golden crunch and rich flavor to the toasted bread
• Cheddar cheese – The classic melty base with sharp cheesy goodness
• Mozzarella – For stretch and mild creamy flavor
• American cheese – Optional for smooth melt and nostalgic comfort
• For the Tomato Soup:
• Olive oil – Used to sauté the aromatics and add richness
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the base of the soup
• Garlic – Boosts flavor and warmth
• Crushed tomatoes – The heart of the soup offering texture and acidity
• Vegetable broth – Thins out the soup and blends all the flavors
• Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes
• Salt and pepper – Season to taste and enhance flavor
• Fresh basil – Adds freshness and a touch of sweetness

Tools You’ll Need

• Saucepan – For simmering the tomato soup
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring the soup while it cooks
• Blender or immersion blender – To puree the soup until smooth
• Skillet or griddle – For grilling the sandwiches evenly
• Spatula – To flip the sandwiches without tearing
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping onions garlic and herbs
• Ladle – To serve the soup neatly into bowls

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by heating olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and sautéing chopped onion for about 5 minutes until soft then I add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2:

I pour in the crushed tomatoes vegetable broth a pinch of sugar salt and pepper and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes so all the flavors blend together.

Step 3:

Once the soup has simmered I use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth or I transfer it to a blender in batches and return it to the pot.

Step 4:

I stir in some fresh chopped basil and adjust the seasoning as needed then I let it stay warm on low heat while I prepare the sandwiches.

Step 5:

For the grilled cheese I butter one side of each bread slice and layer cheese between the unbuttered sides using a mix of cheddar mozzarella and optional American.

Step 6:

I heat a skillet over medium and grill the sandwiches buttered side down until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted flipping once halfway through.

Step 7:

I slice the sandwiches diagonally and serve them hot with a bowl of tomato soup ready for dipping and savoring.

Tips

I like using sourdough or thick white bread for extra crunch and flavor. You can also add sliced tomato or a sprinkle of garlic powder to the inside of the sandwich for a twist. And if the soup is too acidic a splash of cream or milk makes it extra smooth and mellow.

Ways to Serve

Grilled cheese and tomato soup make the perfect lunch or light dinner on a chilly day. I love serving them together on one plate for dipping or with a side of salad for a balanced meal. Add a little fresh basil or a swirl of cream to the soup for a restaurant-style touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup ahead of time?

Yes the soup stores and reheats beautifully. You can also prep sandwiches in advance and grill when ready to serve.

What’s the best cheese for grilled cheese sandwiches?

Cheddar mozzarella and American are great melters. Feel free to mix it up with gouda, provolone, or gruyère.

How can I make the soup creamier?

Just stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk right before serving for a silky texture.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup combo soon because it’s a classic for good reason—simple satisfying and full of feel-good flavor. Whether you’re curling up on a cold day or serving a quick family meal it always hits the spot.

Happy Cooking!

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