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Cozy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe with Crispy Grilled Cheese Croutons

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A deeply flavorful roasted tomato basil soup paired with crispy, melty grilled cheese croutons, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) ripe Roma tomatoes, halved
  • 1 whole head garlic, cloves separated and peeled
  • 1 large onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 cup (240ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 4 slices sturdy bread (sourdough or country loaf recommended)
  • 4 ounces (115g) sharp cheddar cheese, sliced or shredded
  • Butter or mayonnaise for spreading on bread

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Place the halved Roma tomatoes cut-side up on the baking sheet. Add the separated garlic cloves and a handful of basil leaves scattered around. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  3. Roast for 40-45 minutes until tomatoes are caramelized and softened, and garlic cloves are golden and fragrant.
  4. While the tomatoes roast, prepare the grilled cheese croutons: Butter one side of each bread slice (or spread mayonnaise). Layer cheese on the unbuttered side, then top with another slice to form sandwiches.
  5. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is crispy and golden and the cheese is melted. Let cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
  6. Once the tomatoes and garlic are roasted, transfer them (including all the juices) into a blender or a large bowl if using an immersion blender. Add the chopped onion, broth, and the remaining basil leaves.
  7. Blend until smooth. If using a regular blender, work in batches if needed. The soup should be creamy and thick but pourable.
  8. Pour the blended soup into a large pot and warm over medium heat. Stir in the cream, and taste for seasoning. Add salt, pepper, and sugar if the soup tastes too acidic.
  9. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to let flavors meld.
  10. Serve hot, topped generously with crispy grilled cheese croutons. Optionally garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

If soup is too thick after blending, add a splash more broth or water to reach preferred consistency. Roasting tomatoes cut-side up helps keep juices concentrated. For grilled cheese croutons, spreading mayonnaise on the outside crisps up faster and browns evenly. Use a gentle simmer to prevent cream from separating. Salt at every stage enhances flavor. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, swap cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese and gluten-free bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted tomato soup, basil soup, grilled cheese croutons, comfort food, easy soup recipe, cozy soup, tomato basil soup, crispy croutons

Find it online: https://cooksybite.com/cozy-roasted-tomato-basil-soup-recipe-with-crispy-grilled-cheese-croutons-step-by-step/