Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Recipe

There’s something magical about the pairing of Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Recipe. This comforting duo has been a favorite for generations, evoking memories of cozy kitchens and family gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a warm, satisfying lunch on a chilly day or a nostalgic dinner that brings comfort with every bite, this Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Our tomato soup is rich and creamy, made with the finest San Marzano tomatoes and a hint of sun-dried tomato pesto for an extra burst of flavor. It’s easy to prepare, whether you prefer the traditional stovetop method or the convenience of an Instant Pot. Paired with a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich featuring a delightful mix of cheddar and Swiss cheeses on crusty sourdough bread, this meal is a symphony of flavors and textures.

Other great soup recipes to try is my Instant Pot French Onion Soup or my Tortellini Soup.

Jump to:

• What is Tomato Soup?
• Why you will love this recipe
• Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Recipe
• What to serve with Tomato Soup
• Substitutions
• Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
• Tomato Soup Recipe Top tips
• Tomatoes Soup and Grilled Cheese Recipe
• Food safety

What is Tomato Soup?

Tomato soup is a classic and beloved dish made primarily from tomatoes, offering a rich, tangy, and comforting flavor. This soup is often smooth and creamy, but it can also be prepared with a chunkier texture, depending on the recipe and personal preference. Tomato soup is versatile and can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it suitable for various seasons and occasions.

There are countless variations of soup enjoyed around the world. When I lived in Spain, Gazpacho was a summertime favorite, offering a refreshing and cool escape from the heat. In contrast, during the winter months, the classic combination of Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup is a beloved staple, both in restaurants and at home. I'm excited for you to try my version of this comforting dish.

Why you will love this recipe

Comforting Classic: This Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese recipe combines the timeless appeal of a beloved comfort food duo, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day.

Rich and Flavorful: The soup is made with high-quality San Marzano tomatoes and enriched with sun-dried tomato pesto, delivering a depth of flavor that’s both tangy and satisfying.

Easy to Make: Whether you prefer using a stovetop or an Instant Pot, this recipe is straightforward and simple, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the fuss.

Versatile Ingredients: The creamy texture of the soup can be customized with your choice of milk, making it adaptable to dietary preferences and restrictions.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this Tomato Soup Recipe. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Olive oil or butter
• Yellow onion
• San Marzano tomatoes
• Vegetable broth
• Almond milk
• Pesto
• Basil
• Sourdough bread
• Butter
• Cheddar cheese
• Swiss cheese
• Dijon Mustard

See recipe card for quantities.

How to make Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Recipe

What to serve with Tomato Soup

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combination, the crispy and cheesy goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich provides a delightful contrast to the smooth and savory tomato soup. Dip the sandwich into the soup or enjoy them side by side.
• Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty bread or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments to tomato soup. They can be used for dipping or enjoyed on their own, adding a satisfying crunch and a touch of indulgence to each bite.
• Salad: A light and refreshing salad can complement the heartiness of tomato soup. Consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, a Caesar salad, or a Caprese salad featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
• Bruschetta: This Italian appetizer featuring toasted bread topped with a mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil is a fantastic match for tomato soup. The bruschetta adds a burst of freshness and a delightful contrast of textures.

Substitutions

Tomato Soup:

1. Butter or Olive Oil: Use coconut oil or avocado oil for a dairy-free option.
2. Yellow Onion: Swap with white onion, red onion, or shallots.
3. San Marzano Tomatoes: Substitute with any canned or fresh ripe tomatoes, or fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
4. Vegetable Broth: Replace with chicken broth or water with bouillon cubes.
5. Milk: Use heavy cream, half-and-half, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut, almond, or soy milk.
6. Pesto with Sun-Dried Tomato: Use regular basil pesto or a homemade pesto.

Grilled Cheese:

1. Sourdough Bread: Substitute with whole wheat, rye, or gluten-free bread.
2. Butter: Use margarine, ghee, or a dairy-free butter alternative.
3. Cheddar Cheese: Replace with any melty cheese like American, mozzarella, gouda, or a dairy-free alternative.
4. Swiss Cheese: Use provolone, Havarti, or Gruyère.
5. Dijon Mustard: Swap with yellow mustard, honey mustard, or omit for a traditional taste.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Variations

• Classic Grilled Cheese: Use a blend of cheddar and Swiss cheeses for a traditional flavor.
• Spicy Grilled Cheese: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese filling for an extra kick.
• Gourmet Grilled Cheese: Incorporate ingredients like caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh herbs into the sandwich.
• Caprese Grilled Cheese: Layer fresh basil, tomato slices, and mozzarella cheese for an Italian twist.
• Avocado Grilled Cheese: Spread mashed avocado on the bread before adding cheese for a creamy, nutritious addition.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Blend in a generous amount of fresh basil leaves for a vibrant, herbaceous flavor.
• Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes before blending to add a rich, caramelized depth of flavor.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: Stir in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to add some heat.
• Tomato and Red Pepper Soup: Add roasted red peppers to the tomatoes for a sweet, smoky flavor.
• Tomato Soup with Cream Cheese: Blend in a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Check out this Zucchini Beef Soup.

Equipment

For Tomato Soup:

1. Dutch Oven or Lidded Pot: Ideal for simmering the soup on the stovetop.
2. Instant Pot: Convenient for quick cooking and pressure cooking the soup.
3. Blender: Used to blend the soup until smooth. An immersion blender can also be used for convenience.
4. Cutting Board and Knife: For dicing onions and any other vegetables.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure ingredients accurately.
6. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the soup.

For Grilled Cheese:

1. Skillet or Griddle: Essential for grilling the sandwich to golden perfection.
2. Spatula: For flipping the sandwich and ensuring even grilling.
3. Butter Knife: For spreading butter on the bread.
4. Cutting Board and Knife: To prepare and cut the sandwich, if needed.
5. Measuring Spoons: For precise amounts of any added ingredients, like mustard.

How to store Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Tomato Soup:

To store tomato soup in the refrigerator, first let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the soup into an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Allow it to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label the containers with the date before placing them in the freezer, where the soup can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Grilled Cheese:

To store grilled cheese sandwiches in the refrigerator, let them cool to room temperature. Wrap each sandwich in parchment paper or plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For freezing, let the sandwiches cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy, or use a skillet or toaster oven for best results.

Tomato Soup Recipe Top tips

For Tomato Soup:

1. Use Quality Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano or high-quality canned tomatoes to ensure a rich and flavorful base.
2. Blend Thoroughly: For a smooth texture, blend the soup until it’s completely creamy. An immersion blender is great for blending directly in the pot.
3. Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick after blending, thin it out with a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning gradually. You can always add more salt, pepper, or herbs, but you can’t take it out once it’s in.
5. Enhance Flavor: Try adding a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra richness and a velvety texture.

For Grilled Cheese:

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Spread softened butter evenly on the bread for a golden and crispy crust.
2. Preheat Your Pan: Make sure your skillet or griddle is preheated to medium-low heat before adding the sandwich to ensure even browning.
3. Choose the Right Cheese: Use cheeses that melt well, like cheddar, Swiss, or a blend. Experiment with different combinations for a unique flavor.
4. Press Down: Gently press the sandwich with a spatula while grilling to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the bread is nicely crisped.
5. Grill Slowly: Cook the sandwich slowly over medium-low heat to prevent the bread from burning before the cheese has melted.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.