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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe with Crispy Grilled Cheese Dippers

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A cozy and comforting creamy tomato basil soup paired with crispy grilled cheese dippers, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or sudden soup cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for richness)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (28 oz / 800g each) whole peeled tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
  • 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (for creaminess)
  • 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh basil leaves, chopped (adds herbaceous freshness)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 slices thick-cut white or sourdough bread
  • 8 ounces (225 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for grilling)

Instructions

  1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes until translucent and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the canned whole peeled tomatoes with their juices, breaking them up gently with a wooden spoon. Add 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth and stir in 1 teaspoon sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
  3. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until silky smooth. If using a countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches, then return to the pot.
  4. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and the chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes.
  5. Butter one side of each bread slice generously. Place 4 slices butter-side-down on a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly, then top with remaining bread slices, butter-side-up. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
  6. Let the sandwiches cool briefly, then cut each into 4 strips to create grilled cheese dippers.
  7. Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls and serve alongside the grilled cheese dippers.

Notes

Do not rush the simmering step to concentrate flavors. Use medium heat for grilling cheese to avoid burning. Butter the bread generously for a golden crust. For vegan or dairy-free versions, substitute cream and cheese accordingly. Soup can be blended with a potato masher for chunkier texture. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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

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