Creamy Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons

Creamy Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons – Ultimate Comfort!

Creamy Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons is the perfect dish for any season, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. This delightful soup is rich and smooth, paired with delicious cheesy croutons that will make every bite a delight. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just craving some cozy flavors, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to love this Creamy Tomato Bisque. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights. The combination of juicy tomatoes and heavy cream creates a deliciously rich soup. When you add grilled cheese croutons, it transforms into a fun and tasty meal that both kids and adults will appreciate. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy homemade comfort food without much fuss!

How to Make Creamy Tomato Bisque

Making Creamy Tomato Bisque is easy and straightforward. Just follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp sugar
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup heavy cream
4 slices of bread (preferably sourdough or white sandwich bread)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp butter

Directions:

Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add tomato base: Mix in the tomato paste and stir for 1 minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add sugar, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Simmer and blend: Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes. Then, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer carefully to a blender in batches).
Add cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it heat through for 2-3 more minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Prepare grilled cheese croutons: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place shredded cheese between two slices (buttered side out). Grill in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides. Let cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
Serve: Ladle the warm bisque into bowls. Top generously with grilled cheese croutons. Enjoy immediately!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Bisque

Serve your Creamy Tomato Bisque hot, in bowls, and topped generously with grilled cheese croutons. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad or some crunchy crackers. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top can also add a nice touch.

How to Store Creamy Tomato Bisque

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat on the stove until warm. The grilled cheese croutons are best made fresh, so consider toasting new ones when serving the leftovers.

Tips to Make Creamy Tomato Bisque

Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor.
If you like a smoother texture, blend the soup longer.
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Experiment with different cheeses for the croutons, like mozzarella or fontina.

Variation

You can make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a nut-based cream.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze the soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze Creamy Tomato Bisque. Just be sure to leave out the cream, adding it when you reheat after thawing.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You’ll need about 3-4 cups, and it’s best to roast them first for added flavor.

Q: How can I make this soup spicier?
A: You can add crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even sauté some chopped jalapeños with the onions.