Go Back

Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

A cozy creamy tomato soup topped with crispy grilled cheese croutons. Simple, comforting, and perfect for lunch or an easy dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes or whole peeled tomatoes 28 ounces
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar optional
  • 1/3 cup cream milk, or half-and-half
  • 4 slices bread
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Butter for grilling, as needed

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 skillet
  • 1 blender

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  4. Add the tomatoes, broth, salt, black pepper, and sugar if using.
  5. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender, or carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
  7. Stir in the cream, milk, or half-and-half and warm gently.
  8. Make a grilled cheese sandwich in a skillet with buttered bread and cheddar cheese.
  9. Cook until both sides are golden and the cheese is melted.
  10. Let the grilled cheese rest for 1 minute, then cut it into small squares.
  11. Serve the tomato soup warm, topped with grilled cheese croutons.

Notes

For the smoothest soup, blend well after simmering. If you plan to freeze the soup, freeze it before adding the cream, then stir in the cream after reheating. Add the grilled cheese croutons right before serving so they stay crisp.