Cozy Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese

Name: Cozy Tomato Basil Soup With Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional); 8 slices of bread (sourdough or your preference); 4 tablespoons butter, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Magic

I absolutely love the comforting warmth of a bowl of tomato basil soup, especially when paired with perfectly grilled cheese sandwiches. This recipe is my go-to for rainy days, when all I want is a bowl of cozy goodness. The rich flavors of earthy tomatoes stand out brilliantly against the fresh, aromatic basil. Plus, the melty cheese adds just the right amount of creaminess that makes each spoonful even more enjoyable. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that can easily be whipped up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:57:36.174Z

When I first made this tomato basil soup, I was surprised by how simple it was to create a flavor-packed dish. My secret? Using fresh basil and canned tomatoes as the base. The combination really elevates the soup, offering a vibrant color and rich taste that’s hard to resist. During the cooking process, I learned that allowing the tomatoes to simmer helps to deepen their flavor, making each bowl a warm hug on a cold day.

As a bonus, the grilled cheese sandwiches are the perfect accompaniment. Using a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella gives them a robust flavor profile. I recommend using a skillet for grilling them to get that golden brown, crispy crust. This balance of textures and flavors truly makes this dish unforgettable.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of fresh basil and savory tomatoes creates an irresistible flavor.
Melty grilled cheese sandwiches make the meal comforting and filling.
Ideal for chilly evenings or effortless weeknight dinners.

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

For this cozy tomato basil soup, the choice of tomatoes plays a crucial role. I recommend using high-quality canned crushed tomatoes, as they save time and maintain rich flavor. Look for brands that use 100% Italian tomatoes, which tend to be sweeter and more robust. If you prefer a fresher taste, consider using ripe plum tomatoes; just be sure to skin and seed them before adding them to the pot to avoid bitterness. This little detail can elevate your soup significantly.

To enhance the soup's flavor, you can add a dash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of dried oregano. These ingredients complement the tomatoes and basil beautifully. Keep in mind that the sugar is optional; it can help cut down the acidity if your tomatoes are particularly bright. Taste as you go, adjusting seasonings until the soup hits that perfect balance between sweet and savory.

Perfecting Your Grilled Cheese

For the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich, where the outside is perfectly crispy and the inside is oozing with cheese, temperature control is key. Use medium heat to avoid burning the butter before the cheese has melted. If you have a non-stick skillet or griddle, that's even better, as you'll achieve a golden crust without the risk of sticking. Keep an eye on your sandwiches; they should sizzle gently—a sure sign that they’re cooking evenly.

Feel free to mix and match your cheeses for a unique twist. While I love the classic combination of cheddar and mozzarella for meltiness, you can add Gruyère for a nutty flavor or a bit of feta for tanginess. Just be cautious not to overpower the palate; balance is essential. Additionally, using thicker slices of bread can hold up to the melted cheese while offering that perfect crunch, so don’t shy away from artisanal options.

Ingredients

For the Tomato Basil Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

For the Grilled Cheese

8 slices of bread (sourdough or your preference)
4 tablespoons butter, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Soup

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, allowing to simmer for 15 minutes. Add in the fresh basil and season with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of it. Keep warm on low heat while you prepare the grilled cheese.

Make the Grilled Cheese

Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, layer the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Heat a skillet over medium heat, place the sandwiches in the skillet buttered-side down, and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and repeat on the other side.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the warm tomato basil soup into bowls, slicing the grilled cheese sandwiches into triangles. Serve alongside the soup for dipping.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the soup just before serving. You can also customize your grilled cheese by adding slices of avocado or crispy bacon for added richness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This tomato basil soup is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the soup up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to indulge, just reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you’d like a little extra freshness, toss in a few more basil leaves right before serving.

For longer storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove. You may need to adjust the consistency by adding a splash of broth or water, as soup can thicken upon freezing.

Serving Suggestions

While this soup and grilled cheese combo is delicious on its own, you can elevate your meal with additional toppings. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan can add a lovely creaminess. Don’t hesitate to include chopped fresh basil or even a drizzle of good quality olive oil over the soup for a visual and flavor boost.

For a hearty meal, consider serving a light salad—a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s flavors nicely. Crusty bread or breadsticks can also be a great side for soaking up the delicious broth, making this meal feel even more indulgent alongside the comforting grilled cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! If using fresh tomatoes, about 10-12 ripe ones, peeled and chopped, will work well in place of the canned variety.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just ensure it's completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ What other cheeses can I use for the grilled cheese?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda, fontina, or even blue cheese for a more robust flavor.