Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup

The Ultimate Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food

There’s nothing that says comfort quite like a hot bowl of tomato soup paired with a perfectly crisp, melty grilled cheese sandwich. Whether it’s a rainy day, a cozy fall evening, or just one of those weeks where you need something nostalgic and soul-soothing, this classic combo always delivers.

In this post, I’m sharing my go-to Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup Recipe—simple, satisfying, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. It’s also a great crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

Serving Size: 2Prep Time: 10 minutesCook Time: 20 minutesTotal Time: 30 minutes
Cheese with Tomato Soup Save

Ingredients

For the Tomato Soup:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh basil

For the Grilled Cheese:

  • 4 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough or white work best)
  • 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, American, or a mix like mozzarella and provolone)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions

Make the Tomato Soup:

  1. In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender carefully) to puree the soup until smooth.
  5. Stir in the cream and adjust seasoning as needed. Keep warm on low heat.

Make the Grilled Cheese:

  1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
  3. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in the skillet. Add two slices of cheese on each, then top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
  4. Cook until golden brown on each side and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Tips for the Best Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

  • Low and slow is key. Don’t rush the grilled cheese—let the bread toast slowly so the cheese melts evenly without burning the outside.
  • Blend the soup for smoothness. A quick blend makes it velvety and luxurious, especially with the addition of cream.
  • Add flavor layers. A little sugar balances the tomatoes, while garlic and onion add depth. Want a little zip? A pinch of red pepper flakes does the trick.

Variations

Soup Swaps:

  • Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes and onions before blending for a deeper flavor.
  • Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer in place of the cream.
  • Chunky Style: Skip the blending if you prefer a more rustic texture.

Grilled Cheese Upgrades:

  • Add-ins: Try slices of tomato, bacon, or caramelized onion inside the sandwich.
  • Cheese combo: Mix sharp cheddar with a milder cheese like Havarti or mozzarella.
  • Bread choices: Sourdough, rye, whole grain, or even brioche—each adds a different vibe.
Cheese with Tomato Soup Save
Cheese with Tomato Soup

FAQs

Can I make the soup ahead of time?
Yes! Tomato soup actually tastes even better the next day. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

What’s the best cheese for grilled cheese?
Classic cheddar is hard to beat, but American melts beautifully. Mixing cheeses adds depth. Try a combo of sharp cheddar and fontina or mozzarella.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Use plant-based butter, cheese, and cream, and double-check your bread ingredients. The soup works beautifully with coconut milk or oat milk.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, especially during peak tomato season. Roast or simmer fresh tomatoes first for best flavor, and blend them with the other ingredients.

What sides go with grilled cheese and tomato soup?
Honestly, it’s a meal on its own. But if you’re feeding a crowd, a simple green salad, kettle chips, or fruit on the side makes it complete.

Related Post: Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup Recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and a little love on the stovetop, you’ve got a meal that hugs you back.

Perfect for lazy Sundays, quick dinners, or when you just need a cozy classic. Go ahead—dip that sandwich and enjoy every bite.