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Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe with Crispy Grilled Cheese Croutons

creamy roasted tomato basil soup - featured image

A comforting and flavorful roasted tomato basil soup paired with crispy grilled cheese croutons, perfect for cozy dinners and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds roma tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free option
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 slices sturdy bread (sourdough or country white)
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, sliced or shredded
  • 1 tablespoon butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place the halved roma tomatoes, chopped onion, and smashed garlic cloves on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  3. Roast the veggies for 30-35 minutes until tomatoes are soft and slightly charred, and onions are caramelized.
  4. Transfer the roasted veggies to a large pot. Add fresh basil leaves and broth. Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth and creamy.
  5. Place the pot on medium heat. Stir in heavy cream and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place cheese between two slices, buttered sides out. Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill sandwiches until golden brown and melty, about 3-4 minutes per side. Let cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized croutons.
  7. Ladle soup into bowls and top generously with crispy grilled cheese croutons. Serve immediately.

Notes

If soup is too thick, add more broth or cream to adjust consistency. Do not skip roasting for best flavor. For dairy-free, use coconut or cashew cream. For gluten-free, substitute bread with gluten-free variety. Medium heat is best for grilling croutons to avoid burning or sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted tomato soup, basil soup, grilled cheese croutons, creamy tomato soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, weeknight dinner