There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup to bring comfort and joy to your table. This classic soup, made with rich tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, is elevated with the addition of buttery, cheesy grilled cheese croutons. Perfect for cozy nights at home or as an impressive starter for guests, this recipe combines simplicity with indulgence, delivering a meal that’s both satisfying and nostalgic.
The secret to this soup’s velvety texture and bold flavor lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using canned whole peeled tomatoes as a base ensures a robust and slightly sweet tomato flavor, while fresh basil adds a pop of herbaceous brightness. The addition of heavy cream gives the soup a luxurious consistency, making each spoonful as comforting as it is delicious.
And then there are the grilled cheese croutons—golden, buttery squares of melted cheese goodness that add texture and indulgence to every bite. This playful twist on the classic pairing of soup and sandwich turns this dish into something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a family favorite, or an easy dish to share, this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines two ultimate comfort food classics—tomato soup and grilled cheese—in a way that feels fun and fresh. The soup’s creamy texture, enhanced by the sweetness of basil and tomatoes, is perfectly complemented by the crispy, cheesy croutons. It’s a meal that feels nostalgic and indulgent, yet simple enough to prepare in under an hour.
The History of Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese
Tomato soup has been a staple in American kitchens for over a century, with its origins tied to the invention of canned condensed soup in the late 19th century. Paired with grilled cheese—originally a Depression-era meal due to its affordability—the combination became a cultural icon. Over the years, this duo has evolved from a humble lunchbox meal to a beloved comfort food. This recipe builds on that tradition, transforming it into a modern dish with gourmet flair.
Customizations to Make It Your Own
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative, and use vegan cheese for the croutons.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Add fresh thyme or oregano alongside the basil for an extra burst of flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a hint of heat.
- Healthier Croutons: Use whole-grain bread for your grilled cheese, or skip the croutons altogether and serve the soup with a green salad.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with:
- A crisp Caesar salad for added greens.
- A drizzle of basil pesto or balsamic glaze on top for a sophisticated touch.
- A side of garlic breadsticks for extra dipping fun.
Storage and Reheating
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy consistency.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup (without the cream added) for up to 2 months. Stir in the cream after reheating for best results.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons Recipe
This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting classic that’s perfect for any time of year. Paired with buttery, cheesy croutons made from grilled cheese sandwiches, this dish takes your soup-and-sandwich combo to the next level. Rich, velvety, and full of fresh basil flavor, this soup is a must-try for cozy evenings or light lunches.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough or sandwich bread work well)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 4 slices of cheddar or American cheese (or your favorite melty cheese)
Instructions
- Make the Soup:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth (or transfer it in batches to a blender). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Keep warm on low heat.
- Prepare the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:
- Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Add cheese slices on top, then cover with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Remove from heat and let the sandwiches cool slightly before cutting them into bite-sized squares.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls. Top with a handful of grilled cheese croutons and garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired.
Tips:
- Use fire-roasted canned tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth or simmer longer to allow it to reduce.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons is the ultimate comfort food combo, delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite!
