Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup paired with a melty, crispy sandwich – and that’s exactly what you get with this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese. Using ripe, juicy tomatoes roasted to perfection, combined with fragrant basil and a touch of garlic and onion, this soup bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors. And when paired with a golden grilled cheese sandwich made with whole grain bread and your choice of cheese, it’s the ultimate cozy meal for any day of the year. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this combo is a winner every time.

Reasons to Love Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese is a classic comfort food with a fresh twist. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Deep, rich flavor: Roasting the tomatoes brings out natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor for a soup that’s anything but basic.
• Simple ingredients: This soup uses pantry staples and fresh produce, making it easy to pull together without fuss.
• Versatile sandwich pairing: The grilled cheese adds texture and gooeyness, and you can customize it with your favorite cheese or add-ins like turkey bacon for extra protein.
• Nutritious and filling: Whole grain bread and fresh basil provide fiber and antioxidants, making this meal both satisfying and wholesome.
• Perfect for all seasons: Enjoy it warm in the colder months or slightly chilled in the summer for a refreshing take.

What Goes Into Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese

The magic of this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese starts with fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved: Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup base.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a subtle pungency that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For roasting and sautéing, enhancing flavor and texture.
• 2 cups vegetable broth: Keeps the soup light and vegetarian-friendly, but rich.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: A pantry staple that pairs beautifully with fresh basil.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season and balance the flavors.
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Adds brightness and fresh herbal notes.
• 8 slices whole grain bread: The base for your grilled cheese, packed with fiber and nutrients.
• 8 slices cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella): Melts beautifully for a gooey, satisfying sandwich.
• 4 slices turkey bacon (optional): Adds savory crunch, making the grilled cheese extra special.

Tools of the Trade

To make this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese come together seamlessly, these tools are your best friends:

• Baking sheet: For roasting the tomatoes and onions evenly.
• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering the soup and blending flavors.
• Blender or immersion blender: To achieve that silky smooth soup texture.
• Skillet or grill pan: For perfectly toasting the grilled cheese sandwiches.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping your veggies and herbs.

The Method for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes and Onions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the halved tomatoes and chopped onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized around the edges. This step elevates the natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the tomatoes roast, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This infuses the base of your soup with a lovely aroma.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Simmer

Add the roasted tomatoes and onions to the pot with garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the dried basil. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Blend until smooth and velvety. Stir in the fresh chopped basil for a burst of color and freshness.

Step 5: Prepare the Grilled Cheese

Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Assemble your sandwiches by layering cheese slices on whole grain bread. If using, add turkey bacon for extra savoriness. Butter the outsides of the bread and grill the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with your grilled cheese sandwiches on the side. For a fun twist, try pairing this meal with Margherita Pizza On The Grill for a tomato-lover’s feast or a side of Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread to take the indulgence up a notch.

Healthier Substitutions

If you want to make this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese even lighter or cater to dietary needs, here are some easy swaps:

• Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control salt intake.
• Swap whole grain bread for gluten-free bread if needed.
• Choose a reduced-fat cheese or a plant-based cheese alternative to cut calories.
• Replace turkey bacon with grilled mushrooms or omit it altogether for a vegetarian option.
• Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different healthy fat profile.

Testing Timeline

To ensure the perfect balance of flavors and texture in your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese, consider the following timeline when testing or prepping:

• Roasting: 25-30 minutes to develop sweetness and caramelization in tomatoes and onions.
• Simmering: 15-20 minutes after adding broth to blend flavors thoroughly.
• Grilled Cheese Prep: 3-4 minutes per side for a golden crust and melted cheese.
• Resting: Let the soup sit for 5 minutes after blending to allow flavors to settle before serving.

Best Ways to Store

Leftovers of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese can be stored and enjoyed later with ease:

• Soup: Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Grilled Cheese: Sandwiches are best eaten fresh but can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a skillet to restore crispness rather than microwaving to avoid sogginess.

Ask & Learn

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute canned whole or diced tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and roast them briefly to enhance their flavor before blending.

Is it possible to make this soup creamy without dairy?

Absolutely! You can add a splash of coconut milk, cashew cream, or your favorite plant-based milk to the soup after blending to achieve a creamy texture without dairy.

Can I prepare the soup in advance?

Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. Just prepare the grilled cheese sandwiches fresh for best texture.

What cheeses work best for the grilled cheese sandwiches?

Cheddar and mozzarella are classics because they melt well and have great flavor. You can also experiment with provolone, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for different tastes and textures.

What to Make After This

• Margherita Pizza On The Grill – A fresh take on a classic pizza with basil and tomato, perfect for tomato lovers.
• Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread – Perfect as a side or snack to pair with soups or salads.
• Explore more delicious recipes to keep your meal planning exciting and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese is a timeless combination elevated by the roasting technique, fresh basil, and quality ingredients. This recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a cozy, flavorful meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. Enjoy the process of roasting, blending, and grilling — and savor every delicious bite alongside your favorite sides or this recipe’s suggested pairings.

Share on Pinterest