Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich. This duo has been a staple in my household, especially during chilly evenings. The rich, velvety texture of the soup combined with the gooey, melty cheese brings back fond memories of childhood. My family absolutely loves this meal; it’s not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe always hits the spot.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Tomato Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh basil for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

• 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella)
• Garlic powder and parsley (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

Creamy Tomato Soup

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring to a blender in batches), blend the soup until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
4. Add Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream and sugar (if using). Season with dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for some heat. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Drizzle some extra cream or olive oil on top for presentation if desired.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

1. Prepare the Bread: Butter one side of each slice of bread. Sprinkle a little garlic powder and parsley on the buttered side for extra flavor if desired.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place half of the shredded cheese on the unbuttered side of one slice of bread. Top with the second slice, buttered side up.
3. Cook the Sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt, about 2-3 minutes per side. Flip carefully and cook the other side until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is crispy.
4. Serve: Slice the grilled cheese sandwich in half and serve alongside the creamy tomato soup.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 bowl of soup + 1 sandwich
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls.
• Place the grilled cheese sandwich on a plate alongside the soup.
• Garnish the soup with fresh parsley or basil.
• Drizzle some extra cream or olive oil on top of the soup if desired.
• Enjoy with a side of pickles or chips for added crunch!

Additional Tips

1. Add Vegetables: Consider adding chopped carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
2. Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the flavor of the soup.
3. Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
4. Cheese Options: Try different cheese combinations like Gruyère or Fontina for a gourmet grilled cheese.
5. Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for the sandwich.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup for a deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a glass of red wine or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing drink.
• Add croutons or bacon bits on top of the soup for added texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: The creamy tomato soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove. Stir well and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

• Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You’ll need about 6-8 medium tomatoes, blanched and peeled.

1. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

• You can use half-and-half, milk, or even cashew cream for a lighter option.

1. Can I make this soup vegan?

• Yes, use vegetable broth, coconut milk, and omit the cheese from the sandwich.

1. How long does the soup last in the fridge?

• The soup can last up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

1. Can I add meat to the soup?

• Yes, cooked ground beef or sausage can be added for a heartier soup.

1. What bread is best for grilled cheese?

• Sourdough, whole grain, or brioche work well for a flavorful grilled cheese.

1. How can I thicken the soup?

• You can blend the soup longer or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

1. Can I make the soup ahead of time?

• Yes, you can make it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

1. Is there a gluten-free option?

• Use gluten-free bread for the sandwich and check the broth for gluten.

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
   • Absolutely! Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tomato Soup paired with a Grilled Cheese Sandwich is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that warms the heart and soul. Easy to prepare and absolutely delightful, it’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this classic combination is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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