Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Few meals are as comforting as the timeless combination of Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup. It’s the perfect blend of crispy, melty, buttery goodness paired with the tangy warmth of tomato soup, making it an all-time favorite for kids and adults. This classic duo transcends generations, evoking nostalgia for many of us. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch on a rainy day, or a quick meal when you’re craving something simple yet satisfying, Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup delivers every time.

The origin of this meal can be traced back to the early 20th century when tomato soup became an accessible canned good and grilled cheese sandwiches were an easy way to stretch meals during difficult times. Over the years, this humble pairing has evolved into a versatile dish that can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. From experimenting with different cheeses and bread to spicing up the tomato soup, this meal allows for creativity while staying true to its comforting roots.

This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to making a perfectly golden and gooey grilled cheese sandwich alongside a rich, homemade tomato soup that’s bursting with flavor. We’ll discuss techniques for achieving the ideal texture for both the sandwich and soup, as well as suggestions for variations and serving ideas that can take this dish to the next level.

Let’s get started on this cozy, delicious meal!

Ingredients

For the Grilled Cheese:

• 8 slices of bread (white, sourdough, or whole wheat work well)
• 4 tablespoons butter (softened, for spreading)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (you can also mix in mozzarella, Gruyère, or American cheese for variety)
• Optional extras: sautéed onions, tomatoes, or bacon for added flavor and texture

For the Tomato Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 (28-ounce) cans of whole or crushed tomatoes (San Marzano tomatoes are highly recommended for their sweetness)
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for a creamy version)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or griddle (for the grilled cheese)
• Large saucepan or Dutch oven (for the soup)
• Wooden spoon (for stirring the soup)
• Blender or immersion blender (to puree the soup for a smooth texture)
• Ladle and spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is the heartwarming partner to grilled cheese, and making it from scratch is easier than you might think. Using canned tomatoes gives this recipe a convenient base, while sautéed onions and garlic add depth and richness.

1. Sauté the onions and garlic:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, until they’re soft and translucent but not browned.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the tomatoes and broth:
   • Pour in the canned tomatoes, including their juices. If using whole tomatoes, break them up with a spoon as they cook.
   • Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Season the soup:
   • Stir in the sugar, dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice).
   • Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Simmer and blend:
   • Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
   • If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot, or carefully transfer it in batches to a blender. Puree until smooth and creamy.
5. Add cream (optional):
   • For a richer, creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and heat through for another 5 minutes. This step is optional but adds a luxurious texture to the soup.
6. Adjust seasoning:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar if necessary. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while salt enhances the flavors.
7. Keep warm:
   • Keep the soup on low heat while you prepare the grilled cheese sandwiches, or reheat it just before serving.

Step 2: Make the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

The perfect grilled cheese is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Achieving that golden crust with a perfectly melted center is all about using the right cheese, good-quality bread, and a generous amount of butter.

1. Prepare the bread:
   • Take your softened butter and spread it evenly on one side of each slice of bread. The buttered side will be grilled against the pan, creating a crisp, golden exterior.
2. Add the cheese:
   • For each sandwich, place a generous handful of shredded cheese (about ½ cup) between two slices of bread, with the buttered sides facing outward. Shredded cheese melts more evenly than sliced cheese, ensuring a gooey center.
   • If you want to take it up a notch, add a few slices of cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even slices of fresh tomato to the inside of the sandwich.
3. Grill the sandwiches:
   • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan, buttered side down.
   • Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula to encourage even cooking. Flip when the bread is golden brown and crispy, and cook the other side until equally golden and the cheese has melted.
4. Slice and serve:
   • Once grilled to perfection, remove the sandwiches from the pan and let them cool for a minute before slicing them in half diagonally. This makes for a beautiful presentation and easier dipping into the soup.

Step 3: Serve the Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Now that both the grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup are ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy this classic meal.

1. Ladle the soup into bowls:
   • Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
2. Serve the grilled cheese on the side:
   • Arrange the grilled cheese halves on a plate next to the soup, or you can rest them on the edge of the bowl for easy dipping.
3. Get ready to dip and savor:
   • The best part of this meal is dipping the crispy, cheesy sandwich into the tangy tomato soup, allowing the flavors to meld together in every bite.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

1. Choose the Right Bread

• Sourdough, white bread, or whole wheat are great choices for grilled cheese. Sourdough gives a tangy flavor that complements the creamy cheese, while white bread crisps up beautifully.
• Thick slices work best to hold the cheese and extras without falling apart, but avoid slices that are too thick, as they may not cook through before the cheese melts.

2. Experiment with Different Cheeses

• While cheddar is the classic cheese for grilled cheese, don’t be afraid to experiment. Gruyère, mozzarella, Swiss, or a mix of cheeses can add new layers of flavor.
• American cheese melts wonderfully and gives that nostalgic, gooey texture we all know and love.

3. Make the Soup Creamy or Chunky

• For a creamier soup, you can blend the entire mixture smoothly, or if you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
• Adding cream at the end gives the soup a velvety finish, but you can also keep it dairy-free by skipping the cream or using coconut milk for a slightly different flavor.

4. Use Fresh or Canned Tomatoes

• While canned tomatoes are convenient and consistent in flavor, especially in colder months, fresh tomatoes can be used when they’re in season. Roasting fresh tomatoes before adding them to the soup can bring out their natural sweetness and deepen the flavor.

5. Customize with Toppings

• To elevate your tomato soup, consider adding toppings like crispy croutons, a dollop of pesto, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

1. Gourmet Grilled Cheese

• For a fancier version, try using brie, fontina, or goat cheese in your grilled cheese sandwiches. Add extras like caramelized onions, truffle oil, or sun-dried tomatoes to take your grilled cheese to the next level.

2. Spicy Tomato Soup

• Add a bit of heat to your tomato soup by stirring in a chopped jalapeño, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce. This pairs well with the richness of the grilled cheese and adds an exciting kick.

3. Gluten-Free Option

• For those who need a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free bread for the grilled cheese, and make sure to use gluten-free broth and ingredients in the tomato soup.

4. Add Vegetables to the Soup

• For added nutrition, stir in baby spinach, roasted red peppers, or carrots into the tomato soup. These vegetables enhance the flavor while boosting the nutritional value of the meal.

The combination of Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience that brings warmth and comfort to every bite. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or experiment with different cheeses, bread, and soup ingredients, this dish remains a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. The crispy, buttery grilled cheese paired with a rich, tangy tomato soup is a match made in heaven. So grab your skillet, fire up your stove, and enjoy this heartwarming meal that will become a regular in your kitchen!