There’s nothing quite like the timeless pairing of roasted tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches to bring warmth and comfort to your table. The rich, velvety soup bursts with the naturally sweet and tangy flavors of oven-roasted Roma tomatoes, onions, and garlic, all blended into a creamy perfection with hints of fresh basil. Each spoonful offers a comforting balance of savory depth and freshness, making it ideal for a cozy lunch or light dinner.
Alongside this soothing soup, the golden grilled cheese sandwiches offer the perfect crunchy, melty counterpart. With a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella between buttery, crisp sourdough slices, the result is an irresistible cheese pull with every bite. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic meal or serving a comforting dish to family and friends, this classic duo is guaranteed to satisfy every time.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Roasted Tomato Soup:
-
2 lbs ripe Roma tomatoes, halved
-
1 medium yellow onion, quartered
-
4 cloves garlic, peeled
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tsp salt
-
1/2 tsp black pepper
-
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
-
3 cups vegetable broth
-
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
-
2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:
-
8 slices sourdough bread
-
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
-
4 slices cheddar cheese
-
4 slices mozzarella cheese
Directions:
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Place tomatoes, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
-
Roast for 25-30 minutes until tomatoes are soft and slightly charred.
-
Transfer roasted vegetables to a large pot. Add vegetable broth and simmer for 10 minutes.
-
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
-
For the grilled cheese, butter one side of each slice of bread.
-
Place cheddar and mozzarella between two slices of bread, buttered sides out.
-
Grill on a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
-
Serve hot grilled cheese with a bowl of creamy roasted tomato soup.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Roasted Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese
Few food combinations are as beloved and universally comforting as roasted tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. This classic duo transcends age, culture, and cuisine style, bringing warmth and satisfaction to tables worldwide. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon, a cozy winter evening, or a quick family lunch, this pairing never fails to please. Its simplicity hides the deep flavors achieved through careful preparation and the right balance of ingredients.
Roasted tomato soup stands out because roasting intensifies the sweetness of tomatoes and enhances their natural umami flavor. When combined with sautéed onions, garlic, and a hint of cream, the result is a velvety soup that’s both rich and fresh. Served alongside a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich: golden, crisp sourdough hugging layers of molten cheddar and mozzarella, the experience is both nostalgic and gourmet.
History and Origins
Tomato soup has been a staple in kitchens since the early 19th century, with versions found in both European and American cuisine. Its popularity grew with the invention of canned soups in the United States during the 20th century, making tomato soup a quick and affordable meal option.
Meanwhile, the concept of grilled cheese sandwiches dates back to the 1920s and 1930s when sliced bread and processed cheese became widely available. Originally known as “toasted cheese” or “cheese dream,” these sandwiches were often served open-faced and topped with a variety of ingredients. Over time, the version we know today, two slices of buttered bread filled with cheese and toasted to perfection, became a classic accompaniment to soups, especially tomato-based ones.
The pairing likely gained iconic status because of its practicality: affordable, easy to prepare, and extremely satisfying.
Ingredients Spotlight
Each ingredient in this recipe contributes to its final delicious result:
- Tomatoes:
Using ripe, fresh Roma tomatoes or plum tomatoes ensures a balanced acidity and sweetness. Roasting them intensifies their flavor and caramelizes their natural sugars, giving the soup a deep, rich base.
- Onion and Garlic:
These aromatic vegetables are the flavor backbone. Roasting or lightly sautéing onion and garlic adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Olive Oil:
Extra virgin olive oil provides richness and helps the tomatoes and vegetables roast beautifully.
- Vegetable Broth:
A light broth allows the tomato flavor to shine while providing a smooth consistency. Chicken broth can also be used for a non-vegetarian twist.
- Basil:
Fresh basil adds a fragrant, peppery note that complements the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes perfectly. This herb is best stirred in at the end to preserve its fresh taste.
- Heavy Cream:
Optional but recommended for a touch of indulgence. The cream mellows the acidity of the tomatoes and gives the soup a luscious, silky texture.
- Sourdough Bread:
A sturdy, tangy sourdough holds up well to buttering and grilling, delivering that essential crispness without becoming soggy.
- Cheese:
A combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates the ultimate grilled cheese: cheddar brings sharpness and flavor, while mozzarella gives the sandwich a perfect melt and stretch.
- Butter:
Butter ensures a golden, crisp crust on the bread while adding rich flavor.
Variations and Customization Ideas
This recipe is versatile and can be easily customized:
-
Vegan Version: Swap the cream for coconut cream or cashew cream and use plant-based cheeses.
-
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup for heat.
-
Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary in addition to or instead of basil.
-
Gourmet Grilled Cheese: Add caramelized onions, fresh tomato slices, pesto, or even a layer of ham or bacon inside the sandwich.
-
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread and ensure your broth is gluten-free certified.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish piping hot with a garnish of fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of cream swirled into the soup for visual appeal. The grilled cheese sandwiches can be cut into halves or quarters for easy dipping.
Pair with:
-
A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
-
Roasted vegetables or a platter of pickled veggies for an added texture variety.
-
A glass of light white wine or sparkling water flavored with citrus.
For a party or casual gathering, consider serving mini grilled cheese sandwiches (“grilled cheese bites”) with small cups of tomato soup for dipping, always a crowd-pleaser.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Roasted Tomato Soup:
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
-
Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
-
Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring to restore smoothness. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:
-
Grilled cheese is best fresh but can be stored in the fridge for 1 day and reheated in a toaster oven or skillet to restore crispness.
-
Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bread soggy.
Nutritional Information
Tomato soup is naturally low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the tomatoes. Basil provides antioxidants, while garlic supports immune function. Grilled cheese sandwiches offer protein and calcium but should be enjoyed in moderation due to their fat content.
A standard serving of roasted tomato soup with one grilled cheese sandwich provides:
-
Approximately 430 kcal
-
Protein: 10–12 grams
-
Carbohydrates: 30–35 grams
-
Fat: 25–28 grams
-
Fiber: 4–5 grams
These values will vary depending on specific brands and substitutions used.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
-
Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight meals.
-
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
-
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, simple ingredients.
-
Customizable: Adaptable to various diets and preferences.
-
Comforting and Satisfying: The ultimate feel-good meal.
Tips for Success
-
Roasting Matters: Don’t skip roasting the tomatoes, onion, and garlic, this step is crucial for depth of flavor.
-
Blending Options: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer to a countertop blender (carefully) for a silky-smooth texture.
-
Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix up the cheeses: Gruyère, provolone, or pepper jack can add new flavor dimensions.
-
Bread Matters: Use hearty, thick-sliced bread to prevent sogginess and ensure a crisp bite.
Conclusion
Roasted Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl (and bite) full of nostalgia, warmth, and comfort. This classic pairing showcases how simple, everyday ingredients can be transformed into something deeply satisfying and unforgettable. Whether you’re preparing a quiet lunch at home, serving your family on a chilly evening, or impressing guests with a modern twist on comfort food, this dish is a reliable favorite.
Its adaptability makes it suitable for nearly any dietary preference, and its ease of preparation ensures it will remain a staple in kitchens everywhere. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find endless ways to personalize it, whether that means adding herbs from your garden, experimenting with artisan cheeses, or turning the soup into a spicy version for extra zing.
In the end, the beauty of roasted tomato soup and grilled cheese lies in its simplicity. It’s not only a dish but an experience, one that warms the heart and brings people together around the table.