The Ultimate Comfort Food: Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese

Tomato soup paired with a perfectly golden grilled cheese sandwich is a timeless classic that warms the heart and soul. This combination is not only comforting but also incredibly delicious. Our Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese recipe is meticulously crafted to bring out the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, balanced with aromatic herbs and spices, while the grilled cheese offers a crunchy, gooey complement that makes this meal irresistible. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a nostalgic trip back to childhood, this recipe will deliver every time.

Ingredients

For the Tomato Soup:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of ripe tomatoes, chopped (or two 28-ounce cans of whole peeled tomatoes)
• 1 cup of vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk (for a creamy texture)
• 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

• 8 slices of artisan bread (such as sourdough or country white)
• 4 tablespoons of butter, softened
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Tomato Soup:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

2. Add the Tomatoes:

   • If using fresh tomatoes, add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. If using canned tomatoes, add them along with their juices.
   • Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it is well incorporated with the tomatoes and aromatics.

3. Simmer with Broth:

   • Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
   • Add the sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Drop in the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Reduce and Simmer:

   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
   • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Blend the Soup:

   • Remove the bay leaf and discard.
   • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.

6. Add Cream and Herbs:

   • Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.
   • Add the chopped basil and dried oregano.
   • Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

7. Final Seasoning:

   • Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to taste.

Preparing the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

1. Prepare the Bread:

   • Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
   • Sprinkle the buttered sides with garlic powder and dried thyme for added flavor.

2. Assemble the Sandwiches:

   • On the unbuttered side of four slices, evenly distribute the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
   • Top with the remaining four slices of bread, buttered side out.

3. Grill the Sandwiches:

   • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
   • Place the assembled sandwiches on the skillet, cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
   • Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even toasting and melting.

4. Serve Immediately:

• Once the sandwiches are perfectly grilled, remove them from the skillet and let them cool slightly before slicing in half.

This Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese recipe is a quintessential comfort food that never fails to delight. With its rich, flavorful soup and perfectly grilled sandwiches, it's a meal that's sure to please both young and old alike. Enjoy this classic dish on a cozy evening, and let its warm, nostalgic flavors bring comfort and joy to your table.