This Easy Tomato Soup is a classic comfort dish made from roasted tomatoes and aromatics, blended to smooth perfection and finished with cream and basil for richness. Served with a golden, melty grilled cheese sandwich, it’s the ultimate feel-good meal that’s both nostalgic and nourishing. It’s easy to make, uses simple pantry staples, and can be prepped ahead or frozen for convenience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1½ kg (3 lbs) ripe or canned tomatoes

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 red onions, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, chopped

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves

• 2 tsp tomato paste

• 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• ½ cup cream

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil (for serving)

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

• 2 slices bread per person

• 2 cups grated mozzarella

• 2 cups grated mature cheddar

• Butter

Directions

1. Roast the Tomatoes
Preheat oven to 390°F (200°C).
Place tomatoes in a roasting pan with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and salt. Roast 25–30 minutes until softened and caramelized.

2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent.
Add garlic and basil; cook for another minute.

3. Simmer the Soup
Add roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and stock. Simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from heat.

4. Blend and Finish
Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion or standard blender. Stir in cream and adjust seasoning.

5. Make Grilled Cheese
Mix both cheeses. Fill bread slices with ½ cup cheese, sandwich, and butter both sides.
Cook in a pan over medium heat until golden and melted.

6. Serve
Drizzle soup with cream, garnish with basil, and serve with grilled cheese sandwiches.

Nutrients

Per serving (with grilled cheese):

• Calories: 479

• Carbohydrates: 41g

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 26g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 12g

• Sodium: 943mg

Roasting for Deeper Flavor

The foundation of this tomato soup begins with roasting. Whether you use fresh ripe tomatoes or canned varieties, roasting them with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and salt intensifies their sweetness and deepens their flavor. This step sets the soup apart from versions made only on the stovetop. The caramelization brings out a natural umami that becomes the centerpiece of the soup’s rich and vibrant flavor.

Roasting also helps balance the acidity of tomatoes, ensuring a smooth, mellow finish without needing too much added sugar or cream. It’s an easy, hands-off step that makes a big difference in the final result.

Aromatic Depth from Onion, Garlic, and Basil

While the tomatoes roast, red onions are sautéed until soft and sweet, forming a rich aromatic base. Garlic and fresh basil are added at the end of the sautéing process to release their oils and elevate the soup’s fragrance. Tomato paste further boosts the tomato intensity, while broth adds volume and savory depth.

Fresh basil leaves are not only a classic tomato soup pairing, but they also brighten the entire dish with their peppery, floral notes. Stirring in cream at the end gives the soup a silky, luxurious texture without overpowering the natural tomato flavor.

Smooth, Creamy, and Customizable

Once simmered, the soup is blended until smooth for a creamy consistency. You can use an immersion blender right in the pot, or a standard blender for an ultra-smooth finish. After blending, the cream is stirred in for added richness, though you can leave it out or substitute with coconut cream or dairy-free alternatives if desired.

Season to taste with extra salt and black pepper. If you prefer a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add some gentle heat.

This soup is naturally gluten-free and easily adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets depending on the broth and cream used.

The Ultimate Grilled Cheese Pairing

No tomato soup is complete without its best companion—grilled cheese. This version layers two cheeses: mozzarella for stretch and mild flavor, and mature cheddar for boldness and depth. Buttered slices of bread are pan-toasted until golden and crispy, while the cheese inside melts into a gooey, savory filling.

The result is a perfect contrast to the creamy soup. The crunch of the sandwich complements the smoothness of the soup, while the salty cheese enhances the sweet-tart flavors of the tomatoes. Dunking is practically required.

Use any sturdy bread like sourdough, rye, or country loaf for the best crunch. For extra indulgence, add garlic butter or a spread of mustard inside the sandwich.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is ideal for meal prep. The tomato base can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently and stir in cream just before serving for the freshest taste.

The grilled cheese sandwiches are best made fresh, but you can prep the cheese blend in advance and keep it ready to go in the fridge. If needed, leftover sandwiches can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer to restore their crispness.

This makes the recipe a great option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something comforting without too much fuss.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the soup in wide bowls with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil, and cracked black pepper for a restaurant-style presentation. Pair with the grilled cheese on the side or cut into strips for dipping.

For a full meal, add a side salad with vinaigrette or a few roasted vegetables. You can also pair the soup with a baked potato or garlic bread if you’re feeding a crowd or want something heartier.

This dish is perfect for chilly days, casual get-togethers, or as a make-ahead option for packed lunches. It’s also a hit with kids and adults alike, offering both nostalgic appeal and homemade freshness.

Conclusion

Easy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a timeless, comforting meal that delivers flavor, texture, and warmth in every bite. With rich roasted tomatoes, a velvety cream finish, and the satisfying crunch and melt of cheesy grilled bread, it’s a foolproof recipe that’s simple enough for everyday cooking yet special enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or creating new traditions, this pairing never goes out of style.