Description
This creamy tomato soup paired with crispy, buttery grilled cheese bites is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and loved by kids and adults alike. Serve it as a cozy lunch, dinner, or even as a fun party appetizer!
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Tomato Soup:
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- One 28-ounce can of plum tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup half-and-half
- For the Grilled Cheese Bites:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 12 slices of bread
- 12 slices American cheese (or your favorite melty cheese)
- Skewers (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the canned tomatoes, crushing them lightly with a spoon. Stir in the broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf, blend the soup until smooth, and stir in the half-and-half. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Layer two slices of cheese between three slices of bread (buttered sides out) to make double-decker sandwiches.
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Cook sandwiches for 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Remove crusts (optional) and cut sandwiches into small triangles. Serve on skewers for a fun twist, if desired.
- Serve the warm soup with grilled cheese bites on the side or skewered across the bowl for dipping.
Notes
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor in the soup.
- Substitute your favorite bread and cheese for added variety.
- Make the soup ahead of time and reheat for easy serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course or Appetizer
- Method: Simmering & Grilling
- Cuisine: American