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Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese

Course Soup
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Tomato Soup:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup heavy cream optional, for creaminess
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish optional

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

  • 4 slices of your favorite bread sourdough, whole wheat, or white
  • 4 slices of cheese cheddar, American, or a blend
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Soup

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable or chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
  3. Season the Soup: Add the dried basil, dried oregano, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches.
  5. Finish the Soup: Stir in the heavy cream if you want a creamier texture. Adjust seasoning as needed and keep warm on low heat.

Step 2: Make the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

  1. Butter the Bread: Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will be the outside of the sandwich.
  2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a skillet over medium heat. Layer two slices of cheese on top, then add the remaining two slices of bread on top, buttered side up.
  3. Cook the Sandwich: Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Press down slightly with a spatula for an even melt.
  4. Slice and Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, let them cool for a minute, then cut them in half.

Step 3: Serve

  1. Ladle the warm tomato soup into bowls and serve with the grilled cheese sandwiches on the side. Garnish the soup with fresh basil if desired.