Ah, the classic combination of a Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup! This comfort food duo has been a huge part of my culinary life since I was a kid, and I’ll bet many of you have fond memories associated with it too. I remember coming home from school, chilly and tired, and the aroma of melted cheese and toasty bread wafting through the air would instantly lift my spirits. My mom would serve it with a steaming bowl of creamy tomato soup that was perfect for dipping.
There’s something so satisfying about biting into that crispy sandwich while the warm soup envelops it just perfectly. It’s nostalgic, simple, and oh-so-delicious! Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, which is great because, let’s be honest, sometimes we all need a quick and satisfying meal, right? Now, let me walk you through this delightful recipe that never fails to bring a smile to my face!
What’s in Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup?
Bread: I prefer to use sourdough or whole grain bread for a nice crust and flavor, but white or multigrain works well too! The type of bread you choose can really change the vibe of the meal.
Cheese: The cheese is the star here! I typically go for a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella because sharp cheddar gives that distinct flavor, and mozzarella adds that wonderful gooeyness.
Butter: A generous spread of butter on the outsides of the sandwich allows it to toast beautifully to that golden perfection. I love using unsalted butter for control over the saltiness.
Tomato Soup: You can’t have grilled cheese without tomato soup! I usually use crushed tomatoes for a base because they blend easily and give a rich taste. Whenever I have a bit more time, I make it from scratch, but store-bought works perfectly for a quick fix!
Is Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup Good for You?
Well, like a lot of comforting foods, a grilled cheese with tomato soup can be a mix of health benefits and indulgence.
Twelve oz of Tomato Soup: This is rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is great for heart health. It’s also low in calories if you watch the cream and sugar content!
Cheese: While cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, it can be high in saturated fat. So if you’re watching your dairy intake, consider using less cheese or a lower-fat option.
Bread: Depending on your choice of bread, you can make this recipe healthier or more indulgent. Whole grain breads provide more fiber and nutrients, which is a definite win!
In moderation, this dish is definitely a lovely treat, and you can always tweak the ingredients to align with your dietary preferences!
Ingredients List
– 4 slices of sourdough or whole grain bread (serves 2)
– 4 slices of sharp cheddar cheese
– 2 slices of mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
How to Make Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup?
1. **Start the Soup**: In a saucepan, mix the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth over medium heat. Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. **Prep the Sandwich**: While the soup is heating, butter one side of each bread slice generously. Place two slices, butter side down, in another skillet over medium heat.
3. **Add the Cheese**: Layer one slice of sharp cheddar and one slice of mozzarella on each of the two slices in the pan. Top it with the other slices of bread, butter side up.
4. **Cook It Up**: Grill the sandwiches until the bread is golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Gently flip and repeat on the other side until both sides are perfectly toasty and the cheese is melted.
5. **Serve**: Once everything is ready, ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls and serve with the grilled cheese on the side or dunk them right in! Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for that extra touch.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Delight!
This dish is perfect on its own, but if you’re looking to jazz it up a bit, consider adding some grilled veggies like zucchini or eggplant on your sandwich for that added crunch and nutrition! You can also spice up the soup with a splash of cream or some red pepper flakes for a kick.
Another delicious variation is to dip your sandwich into a bit of pesto before cooking, adding a fresh and aromatic flavor.
I can’t encourage you enough to whip up this classic dish! Whether you’re revisiting old memories or creating new ones, a grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup is a fantastic choice. Please give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out. I’d love to hear about your own variations and any childhood memories it sparks for you. Happy cooking!