Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Roasted Tomato Soup with Cream: A Luxurious Comfort Food Duo

When it comes to comfort food, few combinations are as comforting and indulgent as a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich paired with a velvety roasted tomato soup. We've taken this classic pairing to the next level by adding homemade cheesy croutons and a luxurious dollop of cream to garnish the soup. Elevate your comfort food game with this gourmet twist that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. In this recipe article, we'll guide you through crafting the perfect gourmet grilled cheese sandwich, cheesy croutons, and creamy roasted tomato soup with decadent garnishes.

Ingredients:

For the Roasted Tomato Soup:

• 6 ripe tomatoes, halved
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves or parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Gourmet Grilled Cheese:

• 4 slices of artisan bread (sourdough or multigrain work well)
• 4 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon raw honey (optional)
• Arugula leaves (or spinach) for sandwich filling

For the Cheesy Croutons:

• 2 cups of day-old bread cubes
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese (alternative: Pecorino Romano)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, basil)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Garnishes:

• Extra heavy cream for garnishing the soup
• Extra grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese for garnishing the soup

Instructions:

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the halved tomatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are softened and slightly caramelized.
4. Remove the roasted tomatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesy Croutons

1. In a bowl, combine the day-old bread cubes, grated Parmesan cheese, grated Asiago cheese (or Pecorino Romano), olive oil, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the bread cubes evenly.
2. Spread the seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Roasted Tomato Soup

1. Transfer the roasted tomatoes, onion, and garlic to a blender. Blend until smooth.
2. In a pot, heat the blended tomato mixture over medium heat. Add the vegetable broth, dried basil, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
4. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you desire a creamier texture, add more heavy cream.
5. Keep the soup warm on low heat.

Step 4: Craft the Gourmet Grilled Cheese

1. On one side of each slice of artisan bread, layer grated Gruyère and sharp cheddar cheese.
2. Add fresh thyme leaves and a drizzle of honey on top of the cheese.
3. Place arugula leaves (or spinach) on top of the cheese mixture.
4. Carefully sandwich the bread slices together to create two gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich.
6. Place the sandwiches in the skillet or griddle and grill until the bread turns golden brown and crispy, and the cheese melts, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Remove the gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches from the heat and let them cool slightly before slicing them in halves or quarters.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle the warm creamy roasted tomato soup into bowls.
2. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese.
3. Top the soup with a luxurious dollop of extra heavy cream.
4. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves or parsley for added freshness.
5. Finish each bowl with a handful of homemade cheesy croutons.
6. Serve the gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches on the side.
7. Dive into this luxurious comfort food, dipping the gourmet grilled cheese into the creamy roasted tomato soup, and enjoying the delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Conclusion

This gourmet grilled cheese sandwich and cream-topped roasted tomato soup with cheesy croutons recipe takes a classic comfort food pairing to a whole new level of indulgence. The rich and creamy roasted tomato soup, garnished with both cheese and a dollop of cream, perfectly complements the melty, cheesy, and slightly sweet grilled sandwich. Whether you enjoy it for a cozy lunch or a comforting dinner, this gourmet combo is a delightful way to treat your palate to a touch of luxury.