Roasted Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons – Cozy, Creamy, and Comforting 🍅🧈

Hey friend! You know those days when all you want is something warm, cozy, and just a little nostalgic? That’s exactly what this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons delivers. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your heart feel happy. The roasted tomatoes bring out this deep, slightly sweet flavor, the basil adds freshness, and the grilled cheese croutons… well, they’re just pure joy in every bite!

I make this soup when I need a little comfort — it’s simple, wholesome, and feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re curling up on the couch with a blanket or cooking dinner for someone special, this recipe always hits the spot.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup isn’t just comforting — it’s packed with nutrition too! Tomatoes are full of vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health. Olive oil adds healthy fats, and fresh basil brings in a burst of vitamin K and natural anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, if you go light on the cream, this soup is surprisingly balanced while still feeling indulgent. And those grilled cheese croutons? A little bit of calcium and happiness never hurt anyone!

Adaptable Variations

• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or oat cream instead of heavy cream, and make your grilled cheese with dairy-free butter and vegan cheese.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the soup some heat — it’s amazing on chilly days.
• Extra Veggies: Roast some red peppers or carrots along with the tomatoes for a slightly sweeter, more complex flavor.
• Chunky vs. Smooth: You can blend it until velvety smooth or leave a few tomato chunks for a rustic texture — your choice!

The Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) ripe tomatoes, halved
• 1 small onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• For the grilled cheese croutons: 4 slices of bread, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella

Instructions

1. Roast the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tomatoes, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 25–30 minutes, until caramelized and tender.
2. Blend the soup: Transfer the roasted veggies to a blender (or use an immersion blender). Add basil, broth, and sugar, then blend until smooth. For a creamier soup, add heavy cream or milk and blend again.
3. Simmer: Pour the soup into a pot and warm it gently over medium heat for 5–10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Make the grilled cheese: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place cheese between two slices, buttered sides out, and cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and melty. Let cool slightly, then cut into small cubes.
5. Serve: Pour the soup into bowls, top generously with grilled cheese croutons, and add a drizzle of olive oil or a few basil leaves for a finishing touch.

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Use ripe tomatoes: The riper the tomatoes, the sweeter and richer your soup will taste. You can even mix in cherry tomatoes for extra depth.
• No fresh basil? Substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil or even Italian seasoning in a pinch.
• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Perfect pairings: Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a cozy yet balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes! Use two 14-ounce cans of whole or crushed tomatoes. Roast them briefly with garlic and onions for that same deep flavor.
2. How can I make it thicker? Let the soup simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce, or add a spoonful of tomato paste for richness.
3. Can I skip the cream? Absolutely! The roasted tomatoes and olive oil already create a lovely silky texture even without cream.
4. How do I keep grilled cheese croutons crispy? Add them just before serving! If they sit too long in the soup, they’ll soften — still tasty, just less crunchy.

Call to Action

Did this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup warm your heart as much as it did mine? 🍅✨ I’d love to see your version — especially those cheesy croutons! Tag me on Pinterest when you make it, and don’t forget to save this recipe for the next time you need a cozy, comforting bowl of goodness. Because let’s be honest — grilled cheese and tomato soup will never go out of style. ❤️