Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup 
A cozy classic that never goes out of style! Crispy, golden grilled cheese with perfectly melted cheddar served alongside a creamy, rich tomato soup. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for a chilly evening, easy lunch, or family dinner. 
Ingredients
For the Grilled Cheese:
- 4 slices sandwich bread
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
For the Tomato Soup:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried basil
Optional additions:
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor
- Fresh basil for garnish
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions
1. Sauté the aromatics
Melt 2 tbsp butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Add the tomatoes and seasonings
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Add the sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried basil. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer the soup
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Stir occasionally.
4. Make it creamy
Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 3–5 minutes. For a smooth, restaurant-style soup, carefully blend with an immersion blender until creamy. If you prefer a little texture, leave it as it is.
5. Prepare the grilled cheese
Butter one side of each bread slice. Place the cheddar cheese between two slices of bread, keeping the buttered sides facing outward.
6. Grill until golden
Heat a skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is completely melted.
7. Serve hot
Pour the creamy tomato soup into bowls and serve immediately with the golden grilled cheese sandwiches. Garnish the soup with fresh basil, Parmesan, or a drizzle of cream if desired. 
Tips for the Best Flavor
- Cook the grilled cheese over medium-low heat so the bread doesn’t burn before the cheese melts.
- A combination of cheddar and mozzarella makes the sandwich extra cheesy and stretchy.
- Add a small spoonful of tomato paste to the soup for a richer tomato flavor.
- For extra crunch, use sourdough or thick-cut bread.
- Dip each bite of grilled cheese directly into the warm tomato soup for the ultimate comfort-food experience!
This classic combination is simple, comforting, and always a family favorite!