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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe with Crispy Grilled Cheese Croutons

creamy tomato basil soup - featured image
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A quick and comforting creamy tomato basil soup paired with crispy grilled cheese croutons, perfect for cozy nights and busy days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce / 800g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough recommended)
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, sliced or shredded
  • 1 tablespoon butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring gently. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 15 minutes.
  4. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches with a regular blender, being cautious with hot liquids.
  5. Return the soup to low heat. Stir in the cream and chopped fresh basil. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Warm through for 3–5 minutes without boiling.
  6. While the soup simmers, butter one side of each bread slice. Place two slices, butter side down, on a skillet over medium heat. Layer cheese on top, then cover with the other bread slice, butter side up.
  7. Grill sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and cheese is melted. Let cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
  8. Ladle soup into bowls and top generously with crispy grilled cheese croutons.

Notes

If soup tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and vegan cheese. Grill cheese sandwiches on moderate heat to avoid burning. Let grilled cheese cool slightly before cutting to keep croutons intact. Soup can be made ahead and reheated; store croutons separately for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomato basil soup, creamy tomato soup, grilled cheese croutons, quick soup recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, cozy soup

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/creamy-tomato-basil-soup-recipe-with-crispy-grilled-cheese-croutons-easy-and-perfect/