Tomato soup with cheese and onion toast is the ultimate comfort food. The rich and creamy tomato soup is paired perfectly with the crispy, cheesy toast, making it the ideal meal for a chilly day or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. The sweet undertones of the roasted onion and the creamy, melty cheese contrast beautifully with the savory, herby tomato base. It’s a classic dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting, hearty meal. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite!
Ingredients for Tomato Soup with Onion Toast and Cheese
This recipe requires a few staple ingredients to make a hearty and comforting dish. Here’s what you need:
For the Tomato Soup:
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding flavor.
- 1 large onion, chopped: A key ingredient that adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For an aromatic, savory base.
- 1 carrot, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and extra nutrition.
- 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes: The primary ingredient for the rich tomato base.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: Adds depth and body to the soup.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the soup.
- 1 tsp sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 tsp dried basil: For a fragrant, herbal note.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Adds a warm, Mediterranean flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and flavor balance.
- Fresh basil, for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the finished dish.
For the Cheese and Onion Toast:
- 4 slices of crusty bread: Choose a hearty, thick slice to hold up to the toppings.
- 2 tbsp butter, softened: For spreading onto the bread to create a crispy base.
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and savory depth when roasted.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: A sharp cheese that melts beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a creamy, smooth texture that complements the cheddar.
Preparation for Tomato Soup with Onion Toast and Cheese
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables for the Soup
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step brings out the natural sweetness in the onion. Next, add the minced garlic and chopped carrot, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Tomato Base
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to intensify the flavor. Then add the whole peeled tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together and gives the soup time to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
After the soup has simmered, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth, or you can blend it in batches using a regular blender. This will give the soup a silky, creamy texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, feel free to blend it to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Season and Keep Warm
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Keep the soup warm on low heat while you prepare the cheese and onion toast.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheese and Onion Toast
Preheat your oven’s broiler or a toaster oven. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet with the buttered side facing up. Top each slice with thinly sliced onion, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Step 7: Broil the Toast
Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil the toast for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the toast to prevent it from burning. The cheese should be golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls. Serve each bowl with a slice of the cheese and onion toast. Garnish the soup with a few fresh basil leaves for added freshness and color.
Helpful Tips for Making the Best Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast
- Use ripe tomatoes: If you’re using fresh tomatoes instead of canned, opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes for a more robust flavor.
- Customize the cheese: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic choices, feel free to use your favorite cheeses, like mozzarella or gouda, for a different twist.
- Make it creamy: For a richer texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the soup before serving.
- Add a touch of spice: If you enjoy a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup base.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! Tomato soup can be made a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. The flavors will deepen overnight.
Q: Can I freeze the tomato soup?
A: Absolutely! Tomato soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Q: Can I use a different bread for the toast?
A: Yes, feel free to use any type of bread you prefer. A baguette, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread would work perfectly for this recipe.
Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) or let the soup simmer for longer to reduce and thicken.
Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Yes, to make this soup vegan, simply omit the cheese and butter from the toast, and use vegetable broth and plant-based milk or cream in the soup.
Conclusion
This Tomato Soup with Onion Toast and Cheese is the perfect meal to enjoy on a cozy evening. The creamy, flavorful tomato soup paired with crispy, cheesy toast is the ultimate comfort food combo. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance for a quick, satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving something warm on a cold day or simply want to indulge in a nostalgic, comforting classic, this recipe will hit the spot every time. Enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup today!