Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Recipe

Indulge in the timeless comfort of a warm, golden grilled cheese sandwich paired with a rich, creamy tomato soup. This classic recipe combines gooey, melted cheese with the savory depth of tomatoes, creating the ultimate cozy meal. Perfect for chilly days or when you crave a little taste of Fershh Recipes.

Ingredients:

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

• 4 slices of sourdough or country-style white bread
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• (Optional) 1/4 tsp garlic powder or dried herbs for extra flavor

For the Tomato Soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier soup)
• Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Soup

1. Heat the oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, then add the sugar (optional), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pot.
5. For a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth, or leave it slightly chunky if preferred. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Keep the soup warm over low heat while you prepare the grilled cheese.

Step 2: Make the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

1. Butter one side of each bread slice generously. (For extra flavor, you can sprinkle garlic powder or herbs on the buttered side.)
2. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place two slices of bread, butter side down, on the skillet.
3. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the bread slices in the pan, then place the remaining bread slices on top, butter side up.
4. Cook the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. Pour the tomato soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley.
2. Slice the grilled cheese sandwiches diagonally and serve alongside the soup for dipping.

Here are some health benefits of this classic grilled cheese and tomato soup recipe:

1. Tomato Soup – Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which help protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation. They’re also a great source of vitamins A, C, and potassium, which support immune health, skin, and heart function.
2. Calcium and Protein – The cheeses in the grilled cheese sandwich provide calcium and protein, essential for strong bones, muscle health, and overall energy levels.
3. Fiber and Healthy Fats – By using whole-grain or sourdough bread and adding olive oil to the soup, this recipe offers a good amount of fiber and healthy fats that aid digestion and support brain health.
4. Mood-Boosting Comfort – This warm, hearty meal can also have positive effects on mental well-being, as comforting foods like grilled cheese and tomato soup are known to reduce stress and provide a sense of nostalgia and relaxation.

Enjoy this comforting meal with the added benefits of essential nutrients.

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