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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe with Easy Crispy Grilled Cheese Dippers

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A comforting and easy-to-make creamy tomato basil soup paired with crispy grilled cheese dippers, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 oz (800 g) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup (6 g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
  • 8 slices of cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the 28 oz crushed tomatoes and 1 cup broth. Stir to combine, add 1 teaspoon sugar, and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for about 15 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and puree the soup using an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, puree in batches carefully.
  4. Return soup to low heat. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm through for about 5 minutes without boiling.
  5. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place 1 slice of cheddar cheese between two slices of bread, buttered sides facing out.
  6. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
  7. Let sandwiches rest for a minute, then cut into 1-inch wide sticks for dipping.
  8. Ladle soup into bowls and serve with grilled cheese dippers. Garnish with fresh basil or cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

Use San Marzano canned tomatoes for best flavor. Add cream at the end and keep heat low to avoid curdling. Butter the bread well for crispy grilled cheese. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese and bread. For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread. Blend soup carefully to avoid splatter.

Nutrition

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

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