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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese

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This comforting recipe pairs a silky, creamy tomato basil soup with crispy, golden grilled cheese sandwiches. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for cozy dinners, lazy weekends, or sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 (14-oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 4 slices sourdough bread
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 4 oz cheddar cheese, sliced or grated
  • 2 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Pour in whole peeled tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes as desired.
  3. Season with salt, black pepper, and sugar (if needed). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil leaves and heavy cream. Let cool for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, work in batches and vent the lid.
  6. Butter one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle with garlic powder if desired. Layer mozzarella and cheddar cheese between two slices, buttered sides out. Repeat for second sandwich.
  7. Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add sandwiches and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and crisp.
  8. Ladle soup into bowls and top with extra basil. Slice grilled cheese into triangles and serve alongside for dunking.

Notes

For dairy-free, use coconut cream and vegan cheese. Gluten-free bread works for celiac needs. If soup is too thick, add broth; if too thin, simmer longer. Add red pepper flakes for spice or pesto for extra flavor. Soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomato soup, basil, grilled cheese, comfort food, easy dinner, vegetarian, creamy soup, family recipe, quick meal, cozy

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/creamy-tomato-basil-soup-with-grilled-cheese-best-easy-dinner-recipe/