Cozy Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese
Highlighted under: Homegrown Comfort
I absolutely love creating comforting dishes, and this Cozy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese has become a staple in my kitchen. The flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy cheeses blend together beautifully to create a warm hug in a bowl. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of lazy afternoons spent savoring the perfect pairing of crispy, buttery grilled cheese alongside a rich, velvety soup. It’s one of those recipes that not only satisfies but also warms my heart with every spoonful.
When I first experimented with this Cozy Tomato Basil Soup, I played around with different tomatoes to find the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. I discovered that using a blend of fresh and canned tomatoes not only elevated the flavor profile but also contributed to a rich texture. The addition of fresh basil from my garden gives it a wonderful aromatic quality that brightens up the dish.
Pairing this soup with grilled cheese was a late-night inspiration after craving something nostalgic. I found that using a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella creates a delightful contrast with the soup's richness, making it a perfect complement. Trust me, this duo will warm your heart on chilly days!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich tomato flavor enhanced by fresh basil
- Creamy texture that pairs perfectly with crunchy grilled cheese
- Homey and comforting, ideal for any cold day
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients
When it comes to making a flavorful soup, the quality of your ingredients cannot be overstated. Using fresh basil and ripe tomatoes can elevate your Cozy Tomato Basil Soup significantly. Fresh basil contributes a vibrant flavor and aroma that dried herbs simply can't match. Choose basil leaves that are bright green and fragrant, as they add depth to the soup. If tomatoes are in season, consider using fresh tomatoes; just ensure to peel them before adding for a smoother texture.
The tomatoes serve as the backbone of the soup, bringing acidity and sweetness. Opt for a high-quality canned tomato if fresh ones aren't available, as they're typically harvested at peak ripeness. A good crushed tomato will have a thick and rich consistency, providing that 'home-cooked' feel that is essential to this dish. Even the vegetable broth matters; a well-seasoned broth contributes to a more complex flavor profile, enhancing each spoonful.
Mastering the Grilled Cheese
Grilled cheese is an art and a science at the same time. To achieve that perfect golden crust, it’s essential to control your heat. I recommend starting on medium heat; this allows the cheese to melt thoroughly while giving the bread time to develop a nice, even browning. If you find that the bread is browning too quickly, simply lower the heat to prevent burning while the cheese melts to gooey perfection.
For substitutions, feel free to experiment with different bread types, such as sourdough or whole grain, which can add additional flavor and texture. Similarly, cheese combinations can also be tailored to your preference. While sharp cheddar and mozzarella work wonderfully together, adding a bit of gruyere or fontina can enhance the creaminess. Remember, butter is key for that crunch and flavor—margarine won’t yield the same delicious results.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a delightful meal:
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Grilled Cheese
- 8 slices of bread (your choice)
- 4 slices of sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a warm and comforting meal:
Prepare the Soup
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Incorporate Basil and Cream
Stir in the chopped basil and heavy cream, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat and blend the soup until smooth.
Grill the Cheese
While the soup is simmering, butter one side of each slice of bread. Place two cheese slices between two slices of bread, buttered-side out, and grill in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve with the grilled cheese cut into triangles on the side. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Now you have a delicious soup and sandwich combo ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra depth of flavor, try roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. This caramelizes the sugars and adds a lovely richness to every spoonful.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Tomato Basil Soup is excellent for meal prepping. you can prepare a batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage—up to 3 months. Just leave out the heavy cream if you're planning to freeze; add that in when you reheat it to keep the texture creamy. Consider portioning the soup into individual airtight containers for easy defrosting.
When reheating, do so on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming—high heat could cause the cream to separate. If the soup has thickened too much after freezing, add a splash of broth to reach your desired consistency slowly while reheating.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
For an extra touch, consider garnishing your soup with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan right before serving. This not only enhances visual appeal but also adds another layer of flavor. Pairing the soup with a fresh side salad can complement the meal beautifully, adding texture and a refreshing contrast to the earthy soup.
For a heartier meal, you can also add some cooked pasta or rice directly into the soup or serve it alongside a robust garlic bread. Customizing the flavors can make it versatile, whether you prefer it spicy with red pepper flakes or sweeter with a dash of honey to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian option.
→ What can I add to make the soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering for added heat.
→ Can I freeze the soup for later?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What bread works best for grilled cheese?
Sourdough or whole wheat bread works wonderfully due to their structure and flavor, but feel free to use your favorite bread!
Cozy Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese
I absolutely love creating comforting dishes, and this Cozy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese has become a staple in my kitchen. The flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy cheeses blend together beautifully to create a warm hug in a bowl. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of lazy afternoons spent savoring the perfect pairing of crispy, buttery grilled cheese alongside a rich, velvety soup. It’s one of those recipes that not only satisfies but also warms my heart with every spoonful.
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Grilled Cheese
- 8 slices of bread (your choice)
- 4 slices of sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Stir in the chopped basil and heavy cream, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat and blend the soup until smooth.
While the soup is simmering, butter one side of each slice of bread. Place two cheese slices between two slices of bread, buttered-side out, and grill in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve with the grilled cheese cut into triangles on the side. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Extra Tips
- For an extra depth of flavor, try roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. This caramelizes the sugars and adds a lovely richness to every spoonful.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 390mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 10g