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Creamy Tomato Soup with Crispy Grilled Cheese Croutons

creamy tomato soup with crispy grilled cheese croutons - featured image
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A comforting and nostalgic creamy tomato soup paired with crispy, buttery grilled cheese croutons, perfect for cozy nights and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
  • 4 slices sturdy white or sourdough bread
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the two cans of whole peeled tomatoes with their juices. Break the tomatoes up with a spoon. Add 2 cups broth, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Transfer the hot soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth and creamy. Be cautious with hot liquids in a blender.
  4. Return pureed soup to the pot. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat.
  5. Butter one side of each bread slice. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one slice butter-side-down, sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella on top, then cover with another bread slice, butter-side-up. Grill about 3 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
  6. Let grilled cheese sandwiches cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized cubes. Toss cubes in the hot skillet for 1-2 minutes, turning frequently, until golden and crispy.
  7. Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls and top generously with grilled cheese croutons. Garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Simmer soup gently to avoid bitterness. Vent blender lid when pureeing hot soup. Butter bread generously for crispy grilled cheese croutons. Let grilled cheese rest before cutting to prevent cheese oozing. Taste and adjust seasoning before adding cream. For dairy-free, use coconut milk and vegan butter/cheese. For extra crispiness, toss croutons in hot skillet after cutting.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy tomato soup, grilled cheese croutons, comfort food, easy soup recipe, cozy meal, tomato soup with cheese, family recipe

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