Nothing beats the cozy comfort of a warm, velvety bowl of Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons Recipe on a chilly evening. Imagine the rich aroma of roasted tomatoes blended with fresh basil, paired with golden, melty cheese cubes that crunch delightfully with every bite. This classic comfort dish isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Perfect for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or even a party appetizer, this recipe brings together the best of creamy tomato flavor and cheesy indulgence.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, this guide will walk you through every detail, from perfectly simmered soup to crisp, buttery grilled cheese croutons. Prepare to savor a bowl of happiness.
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons Recipe
Unmatched Comfort: Classic flavors of tomato and basil with gooey cheese croutons make every bite heartwarming.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with vitamins from fresh tomatoes and basil.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples with minimal, affordable ingredients.
Customizable: Swap bread or cheese types for dietary preferences.
Kid-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy bites that appeal to picky eaters.
Gourmet Twist: Roasted tomatoes and fresh herbs elevate a simple soup.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a large batch for easy future meals.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Tips & Substitutions:
Olive oil can be swapped with avocado oil or butter for a richer flavor.
Use fire-roasted tomatoes for deeper smoky notes.
Heavy cream can be replaced with coconut milk for a dairy-free variation.
Fresh basil enhances aroma, but dried basil works in a pinch.
For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:
4 slices sourdough or white bread
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar or sliced American cheese
Tips:
Mix cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for gooey, stretchy texture.
Use thick-cut bread for sturdier croutons that don’t sog quickly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Science Tip: Sautéing releases natural sugars in onions, creating a sweeter, richer base for the soup.
2. Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Visual Cue: The mixture should thicken slightly, and aromas will intensify.
3. Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a standard blender, carefully transfer in batches and blend. Return the soup to the pot.
Pro Tip: For extra smooth texture, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
4. Finish the Soup
Stir in heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and black pepper. Let simmer for 5 more minutes to incorporate flavors.
Flavor Science: Adding cream at the end prevents curdling and gives the soup a velvety mouthfeel.
5. Prepare Grilled Cheese Croutons
Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
Place cheese between two slices, buttered sides out.
Grill in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cheese melts.
Let cool slightly, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
Texture Tip: Use medium heat to ensure cheese melts fully without burning bread.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle hot soup into bowls and top with grilled cheese croutons. Serve immediately for the perfect combination of creamy soup and crunchy, cheesy bites.
Pro Tips for Perfect Soup & Croutons
How do I make the soup creamier without cream?
Blend in a cooked potato or a small carrot for natural creaminess.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on low heat.
How do I keep grilled cheese croutons crispy?
Cool them completely on a wire rack before adding to soup. Avoid covering with a lid.
Best Ways to Serve
Pair with Classic BLT Sandwich for a hearty lunch.
Serve as an appetizer alongside Garlic Herb Breadsticks.
Make a cozy family dinner combo with salad and roasted vegetables.
Internal Links for Inspiration:
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 320 kcal
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 680mg
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigeration: Soup in airtight containers for 3–4 days. Croutons separately to maintain crispiness.
Freezing: Soup freezes well up to 2 months. Avoid freezing croutons.
Reheating: Gently heat soup on low, stir in extra cream if needed. Add croutons fresh for crunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes! Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for croutons.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Absolutely. Use about 2 lbs of ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Roast for deeper flavor.
Q: How do I prevent soup from being too acidic?
A: Add 1/2 teaspoon sugar or a splash of cream to balance acidity.
Q: Can I bake the grilled cheese croutons instead of stovetop?
A: Yes! Butter bread, add cheese, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden.
Variations
Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Gourmet Version: Use Gruyère or Fontina cheese.
Herb Twist: Add thyme or oregano along with basil.
Roasted Tomato Bisque: Roast tomatoes and garlic before simmering for smoky depth.
Conclusion
Warm, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy, this Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons Recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s comfort food elevated with fresh ingredients and simple techniques. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a bowl today, and don’t forget to share the joy on social media—this recipe deserves a spot on your table and in your heart.