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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe with Crispy Grilled Cheese Croutons

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A warm, creamy tomato basil soup paired with crispy grilled cheese croutons, perfect for cozy dinners and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (28-ounce / 800g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups (16 fl oz / 480 ml) vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream or whole milk (use coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp dried basil (or 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar or honey (optional)
  • 4 slices sturdy sandwich bread (sourdough or country white)
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. If using fresh basil, chop it now. Butter the bread slices on one side each for grilling.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Add dried basil (or fresh basil later), salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes.
  4. While the soup simmers, heat a skillet over medium heat. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on the pan. Layer cheese slices on top, then cover with the other bread slices, butter-side up. Grill until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and let cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized cubes.
  5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, blend in batches carefully. Return to the pot.
  6. Stir in the cream and fresh basil (if using). Warm through on low heat, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with grilled cheese croutons.

Notes

If soup tastes too acidic, add a tiny pinch of baking soda to balance. Butter the bread well for crispy croutons. Cut croutons while slightly warm to prevent cheese sticking. Use sharp cheddar for best melt and flavor. Blend soup carefully to avoid splatters.

Nutrition

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

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