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Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe with Crispy Grilled Cheese Croutons

creamy roasted tomato soup - featured image

A comforting creamy roasted tomato soup paired with crispy grilled cheese croutons, perfect for cozy meals and easy to prepare in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) fresh ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened)
  • 45 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, chopped
  • 4 cups (950 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 thick slices sourdough or country bread
  • 6 oz (170g) sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Halve the tomatoes and peel the garlic cloves. Toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and spread evenly on the baking sheet.
  3. Roast for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway, until tomatoes are soft, slightly charred, and garlic is golden and fragrant.
  4. While tomatoes roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and carrot and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened but not browned.
  5. Add the roasted tomatoes and garlic to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
  6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, blend in batches carefully.
  7. Stir in the cream and fresh basil leaves, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat.
  8. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place cheese between two slices, buttered sides out.
  9. Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill the sandwiches until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  10. Cut the sandwiches into bite-sized cubes and scatter them on top of the soup just before serving.

Notes

Do not over-salt before roasting as flavors concentrate. For a smoky or spicy kick, sprinkle smoked paprika or red pepper flakes before serving. Use cast iron skillet for best grilled cheese crust. For dairy-free, substitute cream with coconut cream and use vegan cheese. Watch grilled cheese closely to avoid burning; lower heat if browning too fast.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy roasted tomato soup, grilled cheese croutons, comfort food, easy soup recipe, cozy meals, tomato soup, grilled cheese