Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Tomato Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food.
I remember learning how to make a grilled cheese sandwich as a child—one of those simple pleasures that felt like a rite of passage. My mom stood beside me, guiding me as I spread butter on the bread and layered cheese slices. Watching the cheese melt into gooey perfection was pure magic, turning a simple sandwich into ultimate comfort food.
Tomato soup, often from a can, was the classic companion, but we never thought much about the ingredients. As I’ve grown more mindful of my food choices, I now make sure any tomato soup I use is free from GMOs and processed ingredients. It feels good to make a nourishing, wholesome meal that’s a small act of love for my family.
Did You Know?
Tomato soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lycopene. Grilled cheese sandwiches have been a staple in American cuisine since the 1920s, often enjoyed with a bowl of tomato soup. The acidity in tomatoes is balanced beautifully by the creamy, melted cheese, making this combo a culinary classic!
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
Grilled Cheese:
8 slices of bread, toasted
8 slices of cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons butter, softened
Tomato Soup:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Grilled Cheese:
Prep Bread: Butter one side of each slice of bread.
Personal Tip: Use softened butter for easier spreading.
Assemble Sandwiches: Place 4 slices of bread, buttered side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top each with 2 slices of cheddar cheese, then cover with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
Personal Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle a little garlic powder or dried herbs on the buttered sides before grilling.
Cook: Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. Press down lightly with a spatula for even browning.
Personal Tip: Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt more evenly.
Serve: Serve the hot grilled cheese sandwiches with the tomato soup.
Tomato Soup:
Cook Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Personal Tip: Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn the soup bitter.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Personal Tip: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt level in the soup.
Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Personal Tip: If using a blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid any hot splatters.
Season: Stir in dried basil, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Personal Tip: Add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories, 500; Protein, 15g; Carbohydrates, 45g; Fiber, 5g; Net Carbohydrates, 40g; Fat, 30g; Saturated Fat, 15g; Cholesterol, 75mg; Sodium, 900mg; Sugars, 10g; Glycemic Index, Medium
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Choosing Bread: Use thick slices of artisan bread for a more substantial sandwich. Whole grain or sourdough bread can add extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère for a unique twist on the classic grilled cheese.
- Enhance the Soup: Add a splash of cream or milk to the soup for extra creaminess. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the flavor.
- Making Ahead: Prepare the tomato soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Batch Cooking: Make extra grilled cheese sandwiches and freeze them. Reheat in the oven or on the skillet for a quick meal.
- Adding Veggies: Sneak in extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or tomatoes in the grilled cheese for added nutrients.
- Reducing Fat: For a lighter version, use olive oil spray instead of butter for grilling the sandwiches.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the meal with a side salad or some pickles to add variety and crunch to the meal.
- Leftover Ideas: Use leftover tomato soup as a base for pasta sauce or a delicious addition to casseroles.
- Cost-Saving Tips: Buy cheese, bread, and canned tomatoes in bulk when they are on sale. Using store-brand products can also help reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
Let’s Learn About Different Cheeses
When making grilled cheese sandwiches, the type of cheese you choose can dramatically change the flavor and texture. Cheddar is a classic choice, with a sharp flavor that pairs beautifully with tomato soup. White cheddar offers a milder taste but still melts well, making it a great alternative for those who prefer a subtler flavor.
Processed cheese slices, often marketed as "American cheese," are another popular option. While they melt easily and have a creamy texture, it's important to know what’s in them. Unlike natural cheese, processed cheese slices often contain emulsifiers, food colorings, and preservatives. These ingredients help the cheese stay smooth and extend its shelf life, but they also mean that processed cheese is less pure than natural cheese. For those who are food-conscious, choosing real cheddar or other natural cheeses can be a healthier and more flavorful choice. Experimenting with different cheeses can lead to delightful new versions of this classic dish, and knowing what’s in your cheese can help you make more informed decisions in the kitchen.