Grilled Cheese Croutons Tomato Soup Recipe

Grilled Cheese Croutons Tomato Soup is a comforting twist on a classic pairing. Instead of serving a traditional grilled cheese sandwich on the side, this recipe turns it into bite-sized, buttery croutons that sit right on top of the warm soup. The result is a creamy tomato soup with crunchy, cheesy bites in every spoonful.

This recipe is quick to prepare, made with simple pantry staples like canned tomatoes, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth. The addition of grilled cheese croutons makes it hearty enough to serve as a full meal, while still being light and nourishing. Whether you want a weeknight dinner, a cozy lunch, or something special for the whole family, this soup covers all bases.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Two classics in one – Combines creamy tomato soup with golden, cheesy croutons.
• Simple pantry ingredients – Uses everyday items you likely already have at home.
• Quick and family-friendly – Ready in about 35 minutes and appealing to both kids and adults.
• Customizable – Choose your favorite bread and cheese, or make it lighter or creamier depending on your preference.
• Vegetarian-friendly – Made with vegetable broth and cheese, with easy swaps available to make it vegan.
• Comfort food made easy – Satisfying, warm, and filling without requiring complicated techniques.

Ingredients Needed

This recipe is made with simple, accessible ingredients that balance flavor and texture perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Tomato Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sauté the onion and garlic, adding a smooth richness to the soup.
• 1 small onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor as it cooks down.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings aromatic flavor that enhances the tomatoes.
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes – The base of the soup. Crushed tomatoes create a smooth yet slightly textured consistency.
• 2 cups vegetable broth – Provides body and flavor while keeping the soup vegetarian.
• 1 teaspoon sugar – Balances the natural acidity of the tomatoes for a smoother taste.
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional) – Adds creaminess and richness; you can omit for a lighter soup or replace with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

For the Grilled Cheese Croutons

• 4 slices bread – White, sourdough, or whole wheat all work. Choose a sturdy bread so the croutons stay crispy.
• 4 slices cheese – Cheddar, American, provolone, or a mix; use what melts well and suits your taste.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Softened, for spreading on the bread to create a golden, crisp crust when grilled.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps for the best results:

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Soup

1. Heat the oil – In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook onion and garlic – Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until it softens and turns slightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring to prevent burning.
3. Add tomatoes and broth – Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Mix well to combine.
4. Balance flavors – Add 1 teaspoon of sugar to cut acidity, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer – Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
6. Blend (optional) – For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer to a blender in batches. If you prefer a chunkier texture, leave it unblended.
7. Add cream – Stir in the heavy cream if using, then taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 2: Make the Grilled Cheese Croutons

8. Assemble sandwiches – Butter one side of each bread slice. Place a slice of cheese between two bread slices, keeping the buttered sides facing out. Repeat to make two sandwiches.
9. Grill sandwiches – Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook each sandwich for about 2–3 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
10. Cool and cut – Remove from the skillet, let the sandwiches cool slightly, then cut them into bite-sized cubes to create croutons.

Step 3: Serve the Soup

11. Ladle and top – Pour hot tomato soup into bowls.
12. Add croutons – Top each bowl with grilled cheese croutons just before serving to keep them crisp.
13. Enjoy – Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality canned tomatoes (San Marzano for the best flavor).
• Add red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
• Make it vegan by using plant-based butter, cheese, and cream.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle the croutons with garlic powder before grilling.

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Grilled Cheese Croutons Tomato Soup Recipe

Author: Chef Natalia Courses: Dinner, Lunch Recipe Keys: Main Vegetarian

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 25 mins Total Time 35 mins

Servings: 4

Description

This Grilled Cheese Croutons Tomato Soup combines creamy, flavorful tomato soup with golden, buttery grilled cheese croutons. It’s a family-friendly comfort food that’s easy to make, ready in 35 minutes, and perfect for lunch or dinner. With simple pantry staples like tomatoes, onion, garlic, and bread, this recipe is both budget-friendly and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Tomato Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¹⁄₄ cup heavy cream (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:

• 4 slices bread (white, sourdough, or whole wheat)
• 4 slices cheese (cheddar, American, provolone, or preferred type)
• 2 tbsp butter, softened

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Blend the soup with an immersion blender (optional) for a smooth texture. Stir in heavy cream if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Meanwhile, assemble grilled cheese sandwiches with buttered bread and cheese slices.
5. Cook sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
6. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then cut sandwiches into bite-sized cubes.
7. Ladle hot tomato soup into bowls, top with grilled cheese croutons, and serve immediately.

Keywords: grilled cheese croutons tomato soup, creamy tomato soup with grilled cheese, homemade tomato soup recipe, easy tomato soup with croutons, vegetarian tomato soup,