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When the weather turns chilly or the day has been particularly long, few things offer comfort quite like a warm bowl of soup paired with the crispy, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich. This nostalgic combination brings back memories of cozy family dinners and the simple joy of homemade meals. In many households, the ritual of making soup and sandwiches transcends mere nourishment; it becomes a cherished tradition that fosters connection and warmth.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers

Warm up your chilly days with a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup paired with crispy grilled cheese dippers. This classic comfort food brings nostalgia and joy to any mealtime. Discover how fresh ingredients like crushed tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and luxurious heavy cream come together for an indulgent experience. Plus, learn tips for crafting the perfect grilled cheese to dip. This delightful pairing is sure to become a cherished meal in your home. Enjoy the warmth of homemade goodness!
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Ingredients
  

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

2 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Juice of 1/2 lemon

For Grilled Cheese Dippers:

8 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough or whole grain recommended)

4 slices of cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions
 

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

    Combine Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the sugar and dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

      Simmer Soup: Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to deepen the flavors.

        Blend and Add Cream: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can blend the soup in batches in a countertop blender.

          Finish the Soup: Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil, allowing the soup to return to a gentle simmer. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste.

            Prepare Grilled Cheese Dippers: While the soup is simmering, heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place a slice of cheese between two slices of bread, butter side out, to make your sandwiches.

              Grill the Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the hot skillet and grill until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted. Once done, remove from heat and cut each sandwich into strips for dipping.

                Serve: Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls and serve with the grilled cheese dippers on the side. Enjoy the comforting combination of warm soup and cheesy bread!

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4