Cozy Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese

Name: Cozy Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional); 8 slices of bread (your choice); 4 slices of cheddar cheese; 4 tablespoons butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Essentials

I absolutely love a warm bowl of tomato basil soup paired with a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich on a chilly day. This comforting dish brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent around the table. The combination of vibrant tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy textures creates an irresistible meal that warms the soul. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to pull together, making it a go-to recipe for any weeknight dinner. Let me share with you how I make this delightful and satisfying soup from scratch.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-27T14:14:35.330Z

When I first tried making tomato basil soup, I didn’t expect it to turn out so flavorful! The trick is to use ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, which really elevate the dish. I also learned that roasting the tomatoes beforehand enhances their natural sweetness; it’s a game changer!

What I love most about this recipe is the balance of flavors. I often swirl a touch of cream into the soup just before serving, which adds a lovely richness. Serve it up with a gooey grilled cheese on the side, and you’ve got the perfect comfort meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients come together for a comforting taste
Fresh basil elevates the classic tomato flavor
Perfect blend of creamy and tangy in every bite

Unlocking Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The key to a truly delicious tomato basil soup lies in using the freshest ingredients you can find. Ripe tomatoes, ideally in season, enhance the soup's natural sweetness and acidity. When choosing tomatoes, opt for varieties like Roma or vine-ripened, as they have a rich flavor profile perfect for cooking. Feel free to use canned tomatoes in a pinch, but be sure to select whole or crushed varieties without added sugars for best results.

Fresh basil is another essential component that elevates this dish immensely. Its aromatic quality brightens the soup and balances the acidity of the tomatoes. If you don't have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil, but remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. A rule of thumb is to use about one-third of the amount called for with fresh herbs.

Perfecting Your Grilled Cheese

Achieving the perfect grilled cheese sandwich requires a balance of heat and timing. Start by preheating your skillet over medium heat. If the pan is too hot, your bread will burn before the cheese has a chance to melt, resulting in a tough, unappealing texture. A good test is to toss a small piece of bread into the skillet; it should sizzle gently. If it browns too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.

For ultimate gooeyness, I recommend using a combination of cheeses. While cheddar is classic, mozzarella or Gruyère can also work wonders for added flavor and melting quality. Grate the cheese instead of using slices to facilitate quicker melting. And don’t skip the butter—generously coating the bread ensures crispy, golden edges that contrast beautifully with the soft, melted cheese inside.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your cozy soup and sandwiches:

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
2 cups vegetable broth
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

For the Grilled Cheese

8 slices of bread (your choice)
4 slices of cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons butter

Having all these ingredients ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s start cooking!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 10 minutes until they break down and release their juices.

Pour in the Broth

Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to develop the flavors.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add the heavy cream and mix well.

Prepare the Grilled Cheese

While the soup simmers, heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of bread, and place the unbuttered side facing down in the skillet. Layer cheese on one slice and top with another, cooking until golden brown and toasty. Flip and repeat on the other side.

Now you can serve your delicious soup with the grilled cheese slices on the side for the ultimate comfort meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the soup just before serving. It pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes.

Make-Ahead Tips

This tomato basil soup can easily be made in advance and stored for quick weeknight meals. After blending, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container for refrigeration. The flavors deepen after a day, allowing you to enjoy an even richer taste when you reheat it. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat. If it seems too thick after freezing, simply stir in a little vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. This also provides a great opportunity to refresh the basil flavor by stirring in fresh basil just before serving.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize your tomato basil soup by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dollop of pesto. Pair your soup with a side salad or serve it in a bread bowl for a fun twist that adds to the comfort factor of the meal.

For those looking to make it a full meal, I suggest adding protein; a handful of cooked lentils or shredded chicken can turn your soup into a heartier dish. A sprinkle of croutons or a drizzle of pesto on top right before serving can also enhance the presentation and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes are a great alternative. Look for whole or diced canned tomatoes for the best flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit the heavy cream or replace it with a non-dairy cream alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ What else can I add to the soup?

Feel free to add veggies like carrots or bell peppers during the sautéing stage for extra nutrition!