Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Recipe

Grilled cheese and tomato soup. Just the words conjure up images of cozy evenings, rainy days, and the simple pleasures of life. In my house, this isn’t just a meal; it’s an event. The kids practically do a happy dance when they hear it’s on the menu, and even my partner, a self-proclaimed foodie, admits there’s nothing quite as satisfying on a chilly evening. We’ve perfected our version over the years, tweaking cheeses, experimenting with breads, and finding the ideal balance of tangy tomato soup and gooey, golden-brown grilled cheese. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, and I’m excited to share our family’s go-to method for creating this timeless comfort food classic.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup, you’ll need quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Let’s break down what you’ll need for both components of this delightful duo.

For the Grilled Cheese:

• Bread: The foundation of any great grilled cheese is the bread. You want something sturdy enough to hold up to grilling and melting cheese, but also with a pleasant texture and flavor. Consider these options:
  • Sourdough: Its slightly tangy flavor and chewy texture are fantastic for grilled cheese. It provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the tomato soup. Look for a loaf that’s not too airy, so it grills nicely without becoming too crispy too quickly.
  • White Bread (Thick-Sliced): A classic choice for a reason. Thick-sliced white bread offers a soft interior and a mild flavor that allows the cheese to shine. Choose a good quality white bread that isn’t too processed for the best results.
  • Brioche: For a richer and slightly sweeter grilled cheese, brioche is an excellent option. Its buttery flavor and soft, tender crumb create an incredibly decadent experience. Be mindful that brioche can brown quickly due to its higher sugar and fat content, so keep a close eye while grilling.
  • Texas Toast: Pre-sliced Texas toast is often thicker and wider than regular bread slices, making it perfect for a substantial grilled cheese. Some varieties are even pre-buttered, which can save you a step.
  • Multigrain or Wheat Bread: For a slightly healthier option with more texture and nuttiness, multigrain or whole wheat bread can work well. Choose a softer variety that isn’t too dense to ensure a good grilled cheese texture.
• Cheese: The star of the grilled cheese show! The cheese you choose will dramatically impact the flavor and meltiness. Here are some top contenders:
  • Cheddar (Sharp or Medium): A classic and reliable choice. Sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the bread and butter. Medium cheddar offers a milder, more balanced flavor. For optimal melt, consider using pre-shredded or grating it yourself.
  • Monterey Jack: Known for its exceptional meltability and mild, buttery flavor, Monterey Jack is a fantastic choice for a gooey, stretchy grilled cheese. It pairs wonderfully with tomato soup and adds a creamy texture.
  • Mozzarella (Low-Moisture): While fresh mozzarella can be too watery for grilled cheese, low-moisture mozzarella, often sold in blocks, melts beautifully and offers a mild, milky flavor. It creates that classic cheese pull that everyone loves.
  • Provolone: Provolone offers a slightly sharper and tangier flavor than mozzarella, while still maintaining excellent meltability. It adds a bit more complexity to the grilled cheese without being overpowering.
  • Gruyère: For a more sophisticated and nutty flavor, Gruyère is a fantastic option. It melts smoothly and adds a depth of flavor that elevates the grilled cheese to gourmet status.
  • Pepper Jack: If you like a little heat, pepper jack cheese is a great way to spice up your grilled cheese. It combines the meltability of Monterey Jack with the spicy kick of jalapeños.
  • Blend of Cheeses: Don’t be afraid to experiment with cheese blends! Combining cheddar and Monterey Jack, mozzarella and provolone, or even Gruyère and cheddar can create complex and delicious flavor profiles.
• Butter or Mayonnaise (for grilling): The choice between butter and mayonnaise for grilling the bread is a matter of personal preference.
  • Butter (Salted or Unsalted): Butter provides a classic, rich flavor and helps the bread brown beautifully. Salted butter adds a touch of seasoning. Ensure the butter is softened for easy spreading.
  • Mayonnaise: Surprisingly, mayonnaise is a fantastic grilling medium for grilled cheese. It creates an incredibly crispy, golden-brown crust and imparts a subtle tanginess. The high oil content in mayonnaise also helps prevent burning and promotes even browning.

For the Tomato Soup:

• Tomatoes: The heart and soul of tomato soup. You have several options:
  • Canned Diced Tomatoes (28 oz can): A convenient and readily available option. Look for high-quality diced tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted for extra flavor depth. Using canned tomatoes ensures consistency in flavor and texture throughout the year.
  • Canned Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can): Crushed tomatoes provide a smoother base for your soup. Choose a brand that uses vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Fresh Tomatoes (about 2 lbs): For a truly vibrant and fresh-tasting soup, using fresh tomatoes is ideal, especially during tomato season. Roma tomatoes or plum tomatoes are good choices as they have a meaty texture and less water content. You’ll need to peel and chop them before cooking. Roasting fresh tomatoes before adding them to the soup can intensify their flavor.
  • Tomato Paste (6 oz can): Tomato paste adds concentrated tomato flavor and richness to the soup. It helps to deepen the overall tomato taste and thicken the soup slightly.
• Vegetables (Aromatic Base): Building a flavorful base is crucial for delicious tomato soup.
  • Onion (1 medium): Yellow or white onion, finely chopped, forms the foundation of the aromatic base. It adds sweetness and depth of flavor as it cooks.
  • Garlic (2-3 cloves): Minced garlic adds pungent and savory notes that complement the tomatoes beautifully. Fresh garlic is always preferred, but jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch.
  • Carrot (1 medium): Finely diced carrot adds sweetness and subtle earthy notes to the soup. It also contributes to the soup’s texture and color.
  • Celery (1 stalk): Finely diced celery adds a subtle savory and slightly peppery flavor that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and carrots.
• Broth or Stock: Liquid is essential for soup!
  • Vegetable Broth or Stock: For a vegetarian soup, vegetable broth or stock is the obvious choice. Choose a low-sodium variety to control the salt content.
  • Chicken Broth or Stock: Chicken broth or stock adds a richer, more savory flavor to the tomato soup. Again, opt for low-sodium options.
• Dairy (Optional, for creaminess): Adding dairy enhances the richness and creaminess of the tomato soup.
  • Heavy Cream: A small amount of heavy cream adds luxurious richness and a velvety texture.
  • Half-and-Half: A lighter option than heavy cream, half-and-half still adds creaminess without being overly heavy.
  • Milk: Milk can be used for a lighter soup, but it won’t be as creamy as using cream or half-and-half. Whole milk will provide more richness than skim milk.
  • Coconut Milk (Full-Fat): For a dairy-free and vegan creamy soup, full-fat coconut milk is an excellent alternative. It adds richness and a subtle sweetness.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Flavor enhancers to elevate your soup.
  • Dried Basil: A classic pairing with tomatoes, dried basil adds a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic flavor.
  • Dried Oregano: Oregano adds a slightly more robust and earthy flavor that complements tomatoes well.
  • Bay Leaf: A single bay leaf adds a subtle depth of flavor and complexity to the soup. Remember to remove it before serving.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors. Season to taste throughout the cooking process.
  • Sugar (Pinch): A small pinch of sugar can help to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance their sweetness. This is especially helpful if using canned tomatoes, which can sometimes be a bit acidic.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Olive Oil or Butter (for sautéing): Used to sauté the vegetables at the beginning.
  • Olive Oil (Extra Virgin): Olive oil adds a fruity and slightly peppery flavor.
  • Butter (Unsalted): Butter adds richness and a classic flavor to the base of the soup.

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup.

Making the Tomato Soup:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This process, known as “sweating” the vegetables, releases their flavors and creates a flavorful base for the soup.
2. Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Add the minced garlic and tomato paste to the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Cooking the tomato paste deepens its flavor and removes any raw taste. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and crushed tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes if using). Add the vegetable or chicken broth/stock, dried basil, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar (if using). Stir well to combine all ingredients.
4. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes, or even longer for deeper flavor. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
5. Blend the Soup (Optional but Recommended): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth (be cautious when blending hot liquids). Blending creates a creamy and velvety texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step or only partially blend it.
6. Add Cream (Optional): If desired, stir in heavy cream, half-and-half, milk, or coconut milk to add creaminess. Heat through gently, but do not boil after adding dairy. Adding cream at the end preserves its richness and prevents it from curdling.
7. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or a touch more sugar to balance the flavors. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Making the Grilled Cheese:

1. Prepare the Bread and Cheese: Lay out your bread slices. Choose your cheese and slice it if needed, or use pre-sliced or shredded cheese.
2. Butter or Mayonnaise the Bread: Spread softened butter or mayonnaise evenly on one side of each bread slice. This will be the outside of your grilled cheese sandwich.
3. Assemble the Sandwich: Place one slice of bread, butter-side/mayonnaise-side down, in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Top with your chosen cheese. Place the second slice of bread on top, butter-side/mayonnaise-side up.
4. Grill the Sandwich: Grill the sandwich for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Press down gently on the sandwich with a spatula as it grills to ensure even browning and melting. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning; you want the bread to brown slowly and the cheese to melt completely.
5. Serve Immediately: Once the grilled cheese is golden brown and the cheese is melted, remove it from the skillet and serve immediately alongside the warm tomato soup. Cut the grilled cheese in half diagonally for a classic presentation.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated, per serving – will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

Serving Size: 1 Grilled Cheese Sandwich and 1 cup of Tomato Soup

Approximate Calories per Serving: 450-650 calories (This is a broad estimate, as calorie count can vary significantly based on bread type, cheese type, amount of butter/mayonnaise, and soup ingredients, especially cream content.)

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown (per serving):

• Protein: 20-30g
• Fat: 25-40g (Varies greatly with cheese and fat content)
• Carbohydrates: 40-60g
• Fiber: 5-8g (Primarily from bread and vegetables in soup)

Important Notes:

• These are estimated values and can change drastically based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
• Using whole wheat bread, leaner cheeses, and reduced-fat dairy or omitting cream in the soup can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content.
• This meal provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and some fiber. It’s also a source of calcium from the cheese and vitamins from the tomatoes.
• For a more accurate nutritional breakdown, use a calorie counting app or website and input the specific ingredients and quantities you use in your recipe.

Preparation Time

• Tomato Soup Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (chopping vegetables, gathering ingredients)
• Tomato Soup Cook Time: 30-45 minutes (simmering)
• Grilled Cheese Prep Time: 5 minutes (assembling sandwiches)
• Grilled Cheese Cook Time: 5-10 minutes (grilling)

Total Estimated Time: 55 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes

(Note: This is an estimated total time. Actual time may vary depending on your cooking speed and the complexity of your tomato soup recipe, especially if using fresh tomatoes and roasting them.)

How to Serve

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

Classic Pairings:

• Dipping Delight: Serve the grilled cheese sandwich alongside a bowl of tomato soup, perfect for dipping each cheesy bite into the warm, tangy soup. This is the quintessential way to enjoy this classic duo.
• Side-by-Side: Present the grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup separately, allowing each to be enjoyed individually or combined as desired.
• Garnished Soup: Ladle the tomato soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, a swirl of cream or sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or croutons), or a drizzle of olive oil. Garnishes add visual appeal and enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.

Accompaniments for Grilled Cheese:

• Pickles or Olives: The acidity and saltiness of pickles or olives provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the grilled cheese. Dill pickles, bread and butter pickles, or a mix of olives are all excellent choices.
• Fresh Salad: A light and crisp side salad with a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the grilled cheese and soup. A simple green salad, Caesar salad, or a fruit salad would work well.
• Coleslaw or Potato Salad: For a heartier meal, coleslaw or potato salad can be served alongside the grilled cheese. The creamy texture of these salads complements the crispy grilled cheese.
• Apple Slices or Grapes: The sweetness and crispness of apple slices or grapes offer a refreshing and palate-cleansing contrast to the savory meal.

Garnishes for Tomato Soup:

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh basil, parsley, chives, or thyme add a burst of freshness and aroma.
• Dairy Swirl: A swirl of heavy cream, sour cream, crème fraîche, or plain yogurt adds richness and a tangy note.
• Cheese Sprinkles: Shredded cheddar, Parmesan, mozzarella, or crumbled goat cheese add cheesy flavor and texture.
• Croutons: Crispy croutons provide a delightful crunch and textural contrast. Homemade or store-bought croutons are both great.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and a peppery finish.
• Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.
• Pesto: A dollop of pesto adds a vibrant herbaceous and garlicky flavor.

Presentation Ideas:

• Rustic Bowls: Serve the tomato soup in rustic ceramic bowls for a cozy and comforting feel.
• Classic Plates: Use classic white plates for a clean and elegant presentation of the grilled cheese.
• Wooden Boards: Arrange the grilled cheese halves on a wooden cutting board for a more casual and inviting presentation.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t be shy with garnishes! They elevate both the look and taste of the dish.
• Warm Plates/Bowls: Warming plates and bowls before serving helps to keep the food hot for longer, especially important for soup and grilled cheese.

Additional Tips

Here are five extra tips to take your Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup to the next level:

1. Elevate Your Cheese Selection: Don’t limit yourself to just one cheese! Experiment with different cheese combinations for your grilled cheese. Try a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère for a complex flavor, or Monterey Jack and pepper jack for a creamy and spicy kick. Using high-quality cheeses will significantly enhance the flavor of your grilled cheese. Consider aged cheddars, artisanal cheeses, or imported varieties for a gourmet touch.
2. Upgrade Your Bread Choice: While classic white bread works, explore other bread options to add depth and texture. Sourdough provides a tangy flavor and chewy texture, brioche offers a buttery richness, and multigrain adds nuttiness. For an extra crispy grilled cheese, consider using slightly stale bread – it tends to crisp up beautifully. Experiment with different types of bread to find your personal favorite pairing with cheese and tomato soup.
3. Roast Your Tomatoes for Deeper Soup Flavor: For an intensely flavorful tomato soup, consider roasting your fresh tomatoes before making the soup. Toss halved tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, herbs (like thyme or oregano), salt, and pepper, and roast in a hot oven until softened and slightly caramelized. Roasting intensifies the sweetness and umami of the tomatoes, resulting in a richer, more complex soup. This step adds extra time but the flavor payoff is significant.
4. Use Mayonnaise for a Super Crispy Grilled Cheese Crust: For an incredibly crispy and evenly browned grilled cheese crust, try using mayonnaise instead of butter on the outside of your bread slices. Mayonnaise, due to its higher fat content and emulsified nature, creates a beautifully golden and crispy crust that is superior to butter in terms of crispness. The subtle tang of mayonnaise also adds a pleasant flavor dimension.
5. Infuse Your Butter or Mayonnaise for Extra Flavor: Take your grilled cheese to the next level by infusing your butter or mayonnaise with flavor. For herb-infused butter, mix softened butter with finely chopped herbs like garlic, thyme, rosemary, or chives. For garlic mayonnaise, mix mayonnaise with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. These infused grilling mediums add an extra layer of flavor to your grilled cheese, making it even more delicious and aromatic.

FAQ Section

FAQ – Ingredients

Q1: What is the best cheese for grilled cheese for optimal melting and flavor?

A: For optimal melting, cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella (low-moisture), provolone, and Gruyère are excellent choices. For flavor, cheddar (sharp or medium) is a classic, and blends like cheddar and Monterey Jack or Gruyère and cheddar offer a balance of meltability and taste. Experiment to find your perfect combination! For a truly gooey melt, ensure your cheese is shredded or thinly sliced.

Q2: Can I use canned tomatoes for tomato soup, or are fresh tomatoes always better?

A: Canned tomatoes are perfectly acceptable and convenient for tomato soup, and in some cases, they can even be preferable, especially during off-season when fresh tomatoes may lack flavor. High-quality canned diced or crushed tomatoes, especially fire-roasted varieties, offer consistent flavor and texture. Fresh tomatoes, when in season and ripe, can provide a brighter, fresher flavor, but require more preparation (peeling and chopping). Roasting fresh tomatoes beforehand can enhance their flavor significantly.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, absolutely! To make the tomato soup vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth or stock. To make it vegan, ensure your bread is vegan-friendly (some brioche breads contain eggs), use vegan cheese alternatives for the grilled cheese (many good vegan cheeses are available now that melt well), and use olive oil or vegan butter for grilling. For creamy vegan tomato soup, use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy cream.

Q4: What kind of bread is best for grilled cheese to prevent it from becoming soggy?

A: Sturdier breads like sourdough, thick-sliced white bread, brioche, or Texas toast are best for grilled cheese as they hold up well to grilling and prevent sogginess. Avoid very thin or delicate breads that can become soggy easily. Using slightly stale bread can also help achieve a crispier grilled cheese as it has less moisture content.

Q5: How can I make my tomato soup thicker if it’s too thin?

A: There are several ways to thicken tomato soup:

• Simmer Longer: Continue simmering the soup uncovered for a longer period to allow excess liquid to evaporate and the soup to naturally reduce and thicken.
• Add Tomato Paste: Stir in a tablespoon or two of tomato paste and simmer for a few more minutes. Tomato paste adds concentrated tomato flavor and thickens the soup.
• Cornstarch or Flour Slurry: Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch or all-purpose flour with a couple of tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering soup and cook for a few minutes until thickened.
• Blend Part of the Soup: If you haven’t already blended the soup, blending a portion of it (or all of it for a smooth soup) will naturally thicken it.
• Add Breadcrumbs or Cooked Rice: Stir in a few tablespoons of fine breadcrumbs or cooked rice and simmer for a few minutes. These will absorb some of the liquid and thicken the soup.

Enjoy your perfectly crafted Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup! It’s a meal that truly warms the soul, no matter the occasion.

Print