Name: Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese: Comfort Food Done Right
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cans whole canned tomatoes (San Marzano preferred); 1 medium carrot (diced); 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for sautéing); 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 cup cooking sherry (optional); 1 cup heavy cream or half & half; 4 slices sourdough bread; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (grated); 1 cup Gruyère cheese (grated); 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)

As the chilly winds start to swirl outside, I can’t help but crave the warmth of a comforting bowl of fresh Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese. This cozy dish is more than just food; it’s a nostalgic embrace that takes me back to evenings spent snuggled up at home. The rich, velvety bisque, infused with aromatic basil and thyme, pairs perfectly with the crispy, buttery goodness of grilled cheese that oozes melted cheese. Not only is this recipe easy to make from scratch, but it also transforms a simple meal into a family-friendly favorite that everyone will adore. Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up on a dreary day or a satisfying dish to share with loved ones, this combo has all the deliciousness to uplift your spirit. So, shall we dive into the comforting world of tomato bisque and perfect grilled cheese?

Why is Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese a Classic?

Comforting and fulfilling: This dish wraps you in warmth with its creamy bisque and crispy grilled cheese.
Family-friendly and appealing: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making mealtime simple and satisfying.
Quick to prepare: In just over 30 minutes, you can create this delicious meal from scratch!
Versatile options: Feel free to swap in seasonal ingredients or different cheeses for variety, much like my Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies dessert recipe.
Nostalgic flavors: Each spoonful echoes childhood memories, turning an average dinner into a heartfelt experience.
This Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese truly elevates everyday cooking, bringing comfort and joy to your table!

Tomato Bisque and Grilled Cheese Ingredients

• Prepare to create the ultimate comfort food experience with this delightful duo!

For the Tomato Bisque

Whole Canned Tomatoes – Essential for flavor and consistency; San Marzano is preferred for premium taste.
Carrot – Adds natural sweetness and depth to the bisque.
Onion – Provides a savory base flavor when sautéed for optimal deliciousness.
Garlic – Enhances the aromatic profile of the soup with its bold flavor.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Contributes to the soup’s body and richness.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables, bringing in healthy fats.
Dried Basil & Thyme – Essential herbs to enhance the overall flavor of the bisque.
Cooking Sherry – Adds depth to the flavor; this is optional but recommended.
Heavy Cream or Half & Half – Creates the luscious creamy texture of the finished soup.

For the Grilled Cheese

Sourdough Bread – A perfect base that provides structure and a delightful flavor.
Sharp Cheddar & Gruyère Cheese – Offers a delicious flavor and excellent melting qualities—ideal for gooey perfection!
Butter – Used for frying the sandwiches to achieve a crispy, golden crust.

Dive into the cozy world of Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese, and delight in this classic comfort food!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add 1 diced carrot and sauté for about 1 minute, then introduce 1 chopped onion, cooking until softened and translucent, which should take another 2 minutes. The goal is to build a savory base for your rich Tomato Bisque.

Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves along with 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and thyme, cooking for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. This step is crucial for infusing depth into your bisque, as the herbs will begin to release their oils, creating an aromatic foundation for the soup.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Pour in 2 cans of whole San Marzano tomatoes (with juice) and 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Bring this colorful mixture to a rolling boil, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the bisque simmer gently for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Blend the Soup
After simmering, remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it’s completely smooth and velvety. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender, ensuring to fill it no more than halfway to prevent splattering.

Step 5: Finish the Bisque
Return the blended bisque to low heat and stir in 1/2 cup of cooking sherry (if using) and 1 cup of heavy cream or half & half. Warm the soup gently, ensuring it doesn’t boil, as this will help preserve its creaminess. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.

Step 6: Prepare the Grilled Cheese
While keeping the bisque on low heat, prepare your grilled cheese sandwiches. Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread and heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the buttered bread in the pan, layer it generously with sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese, then top with another slice of buttered bread.

Step 7: Cook the Sandwiches
Cook the grilled cheese for about 4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is thoroughly melted. Flip the sandwiches gently using a spatula, ensuring both sides achieve that wonderful crispness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the grilled cheese from the pan, cut them into sticks or triangles, and serve alongside your warm Tomato Bisque. This enchanting combination offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, perfect for cozy evenings.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the bisque up to 3 days in advance by cooking it as directed, allowing it to cool, and refrigerating it in an airtight container. To maintain the wonderful creamy texture, add the heavy cream just before reheating the bisque on the stove. As for the grilled cheese, assemble the sandwiches but hold off on cooking them. Instead, store the prepared sandwiches wrapped in plastic wrap or foil for up to 24 hours in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply cook the sandwiches until golden and crispy, dip them into the warm bisque, and enjoy a comforting meal that feels freshly made!

Expert Tips for Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese

Don’t Rush Sautéing: Allow carrots and onions to soften well before adding other ingredients; this builds a robust flavor base for your bisque.
Blend Wisely: If using a traditional blender, fill it no more than halfway to avoid mess; an immersion blender is safer and easier for achieving that creamy texture.
Add Cream Off Heat: Always stir in the heavy cream after removing the soup from heat to prevent curdling and maintain a silky consistency in your tomato bisque.
Perfect Grilled Cheese Heat: Cook sandwiches on medium-low heat; this allows the bread to crisp up beautifully while ensuring the cheese melts evenly without burning.
Experiment with Cheeses: Don’t hesitate to mix different cheeses in your grilled cheese for flavor variations; try mozzarella or fontina for a unique twist that complements the tomato bisque perfectly.

Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Variations

Get creative with your Tomato Bisque and Grilled Cheese by trying these delicious variations that add unique flavors and twists to this classic dish!

Fresh Tomatoes: Use about 2 pounds of fresh, ripe tomatoes in summer for a vibrant flavor. Blanch and peel them for the best results.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like Fontina or mozzarella in your grilled cheese for added creaminess and a taste makeover!
Herbs Boost: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top for a refreshing finish with each bowl of bisque, transforming the flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the bisque, or serve with jalapeño slices on the side for those who love a bit of heat.
Crispy Additions: Top your bisque with crispy bacon bits or croutons for extra crunch and richness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
Serving Options: Pair with crusty French bread or homemade dinner rolls for dipping, or serve alongside a refreshing arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the chicken broth with a rich vegetable broth to create a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.

These variations not only enhance your meal but also allow you to explore different culinary experiences, much like how one might enjoy delightful desserts such as Churro Cheesecake Indulge. Enjoy mixing it up!

What to Serve with Rich Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese

A cozy bowl of creamy goodness paired with golden, crispy sandwiches creates an invitingly delicious meal.

Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery bite of arugula with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the bisque, adding a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies like carrots and bell peppers deepen the meal’s flavor, providing a delightful texture alongside the creamy bisque.
Crusty French Bread: Serve up slices for dipping! This hearty bread soaks up the bisque beautifully, enhancing each bite with satisfying crunch.
Pickles: Add a tangy crunch to the meal! Their acidity will brighten the comforting richness of the soup and cheese.
Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlicky delight is perfect for dunking while providing a lovely crunchy texture alongside the soft soup.
Wine Pairing: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements herby flavors; its crisp profile refreshes the palate between rich bites.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, the warm, gooey cookies offer a sweet ending to your meal, echoing nostalgic flavors and delightful textures.
Ice Cream Float: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in sparkling lemonade for a fun, refreshing treat to finish off your evening in style.

How to Store and Freeze Tomato Bisque

Fridge: Refrigerate the bisque in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors actually deepen and improve as it sits, making it a delightful option for meal prep.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bisque in portions for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion during freezing.

Thawing: Safely thaw the frozen bisque in the fridge overnight before reheating. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream if it appears too thick to achieve that creamy consistency again. Enjoy your comforting Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese!

Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs

What tomatoes should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! I highly recommend using whole canned San Marzano tomatoes for your tomato bisque. They provide a rich flavor and a beautiful consistency. Avoid using crushed or diced varieties, as they can alter the texture and flavor profile of your soup.

How long can I store the bisque in the fridge?
You can refrigerate the tomato bisque in an airtight container for up to 4 days. I find that the flavors actually deepen and improve over time, making it a perfect option for meal prep!

Can I freeze leftover tomato bisque?
Yes, you can freeze the bisque! Store it in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the bisque will expand as it freezes. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my bisque becomes too thick after storage?
If you find your bisque is too thick upon reheating, simply add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth, or even some heavy cream to reach the desired consistency. Stir it in while warming over low heat until it’s creamy and smooth again.

Can I use different cheeses for the grilled cheese?
Very much! While sharp cheddar and Gruyère are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like Fontina or mozzarella for delicious flavor twists. The more cheese, the merrier when it comes to that gooey goodness!

Is this dish suitable for children or those with allergies?
This classic comfort dish is quite family-friendly! However, if there are dairy allergies, you can explore using plant-based cheeses and non-dairy creams. Just ensure all other ingredients, especially broth, are allergy-friendly to keep it safe for everyone.