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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe with Easy Crispy Grilled Cheese Croutons

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A comforting and creamy tomato basil soup paired with crispy grilled cheese croutons that add a delightful crunch and melty goodness. Perfect for cozy dinners and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (can substitute coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 slices sturdy white or sourdough bread
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend like cheddar and mozzarella)
  • Butter, softened, for spreading

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the entire can of peeled tomatoes with their juice and the 2 cups of broth. Break up the tomatoes slightly with a spoon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes.
  4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, blend in batches carefully.
  5. Return the soup to the pot if needed. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Simmer gently for 5 more minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Prepare grilled cheese croutons: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice, butter side down, on a heated skillet. Add a slice of cheese on top, then cover with the second slice, butter side up. Grill on medium heat until golden brown and cheese melts, about 3-4 minutes per side. Repeat for all sandwiches.
  7. Let grilled cheese sandwiches cool for a minute, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
  8. Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle crispy grilled cheese croutons on top before serving.

Notes

Watch the soup closely after adding cream to prevent curdling. Use medium heat for grilled cheese to avoid burning bread or sogginess. Day-old bread works best for croutons. For dairy-free, substitute cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese or omit croutons. Blend hot liquids carefully to avoid splashes.

Nutrition

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

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